PDHPE & Sport

This year again has thrown a significant number of challenges our way; however, in these times it is important to look for the successes and opportunities that were scattered amongst the chaos. 

In 2020, we were able to run our swimming, athletics and cross-country carnivals which were attended by a huge number of students. These days are particularly important for our senior students as they get dressed up and participate in what is their last ever school carnivals. These opportunities play a vital role in bringing our school community together and providing opportunities for our students to challenge themselves and achieve their personal bests. We had a significant number of students progress through to represent our school at the Brisbane Water Zone Carnivals where they performed extremely well. 

In addition to the carnivals, we had several successes with our school sporting teams as they managed to complete their knockout competitions before Covid-19 put a hold on inter-school sport. We had success in soccer, futsal, basketball, cricket and touch football. A number of individual students secured spots in Zone, Sydney North and Combined High Schools teams which is an amazing achievement.

Within the classroom, our school year started with some normality after a disrupted 2020. The students quickly settled into their new classes and engaged well with the learning opportunities. As a faculty, we valued and enjoyed having our new Year 7 students join us and have been proud of their effort and attitude since transitioning to high school. 

Our senior students started the year with diligence, which prepared them for the barriers they would eventually need to face. We have been extremely proud of the Year 11 students, their work ethic and their achievements throughout the year. The Year 12 students never lost sight of the end goal and should be proud of the commitment and perseverance they have shown, throughout what is surely the most challenging HSC year in recent times. We hope that your results reflect the effort and dedication you have shown toward your education.

The period of online learning certainly had its difficulties for the students and PDHPE staff. Teaching practical lessons online had its challenges, in a time when getting outdoors for exercise became a priority for most people. Overall, we were amazed at the ingenuity of the students to keep themselves active and entertained during lockdown. Worth a mention would be the Year 10 PASS students who made their own putt-putt golf courses around their house and backyards.

Returning to face-to-face learning during Term 4 was a welcomed change. Despite the significant restrictions and health protocols that have been implemented, the staff and students have taken the opportunities that have been available and haven’t looked back. We would like to congratulate the students on their cooperation and support in adhering to the guidelines that have limited what we have been able to offer in our practical lessons and during Tuesday Sport. 

The PDHPE faculty hope that all students and their families enjoy a well-deserved break and look forward to returning in 2022.

Mr Michael Mellish

Head Teacher 

PDHPE (Relieving)

Sports Coordinator