Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE) is an integrated area of study that provides for the intellectual, social, emotional, physical and spiritual development of students. It involves students learning about and practising ways of maintaining active, healthy lifestyles and improving their health status. It is also concerned with social and scientific understandings about movement, which lead to enhanced movement potential and appreciation of movement in their lives.
Young people are growing up in a world of rapid change. Expanding technologies, new social structures, shifting community values and emerging environmental issues are complex interrelated factors that affect the way individuals live their lives. At a time when there is tremendous opportunity for good health there are numerous conflicting influences on lifestyle.
In order for students to enhance personal growth and to make a significant contribution to the wellbeing of others, this syllabus focuses on the health of individuals and communities and the factors that influence movement skill and physical activity levels.
This syllabus focuses on a social view of health where the principles of diversity, social justice and supportive environments are fundamental aspects of health. The examination of individual, family and community values and beliefs and the sociocultural and physical environments in which we live provides an explanation for health status and sustainable solutions for better health.
This syllabus also includes a detailed study of movement and physical activity. The emphasis is on understanding how the body moves and the sociocultural influences that regulate movement. Scientific aspects to be studied include anatomy, physiology, biomechanics and skill acquisition. Students also think critically about aspects of history, economics, gender and media as they impact on patterns of participation in physical activity and the ways that movement is valued. These areas of study prepare students to be informed participants in movement culture, skilled, intelligent performers and analysts of movement.
The syllabus has been designed for all students in Years 11 and 12 who have an interest in this area. While there are no formal prerequisites for this course, it is assumed that students have undertaken a minimum 300 hour course based on the PDHPE Years 7–10 Syllabus. The Stage 6 PDHPE syllabus builds upon this experience by introducing students to more detailed study and higher order skills.
All aspects of PDHPE are of relevance to all young people and, as such, the syllabus prescribes a core of study that represents the breadth of the learning area. It is acknowledged, however, that senior students will have particular areas of interest that they wish to pursue in greater depth. Consequently, the syllabus offers a significant options component designed to enable students to specialise in chosen areas.
Preliminary Course
Core Strands (60% total)
- Better Health for Individuals (30%)
- The Body in Motion (30%)
Options (40% total)
Two of the following options are selected:
- First Aid (20%)
- Composition and Performance (20%)
- Fitness Choices (20%)
- Outdoor Recreation (20%)
HSC Course
Core Strands (60% total)
- Health Priorities in Australia (30%)
Factors Affecting Performance (30%)
Options (40% total)
Two of the following options are selected:
- The Health of Young People (20%)
- Sport and Physical Activity in Australian Society (20%)
- Sports Medicine (20%)
- Improving Performance (20%)
- Equity and Health (20%)
The syllabus provides a direct link with study and vocational pathways in the areas of recreational, paramedical, movement and health sciences. Related career opportunities are expanding and gaining recognition throughout the community as legitimate fields of endeavour.
The syllabus encourages personal growth, the enhancement of wellbeing and the development of the individual's capacity to take a productive role in society.