PDHPE

As we finalise PDHPE in 2026, we reflect on the content, the lessons and the laughter in all of our classes. We reflect on the importance of ongoing participation and we hope students have enjoyed their year learning about health concepts and the importance of continuing physical activity both in and outside the College. We would also like to take this opportunity to wish our HSC students the best of luck in the upcoming HSC results and everyone a safe and happy end to Term 4. 

Year 7

In our Junior cohort, Year 7 students have been working on a newly devised unit looking at their ability to transfer ongoing skills of catching and throwing. Many games have been played across the last few weeks including, Netball, Basketball and European Handball; developing ongoing tactical skills and decision making in a game sense approach to learning. Theory has also been linked to the interrelationship between health and physical activity concepts. Students have been developing the knowledge, understanding and skills to empower them to make healthy and safe choices and take action to promote the health and wellbeing of their communities.

Year 8

Year 8 this term has started the unit, Mental health. This unit is an essential aspect of overall well-being, and the Year 8 students have been learning about the importance of considering and improving their mental health as well as checking in on their friends and loved ones. Year 8 students have been discussing the signs of mental health issues and how to approach situations that we perceive as stressors. They have also been learning about the resources available to them if they or someone they know needs help. In the practical unit they have been developing skills in Net/Wall Games, including Volleyball and Mini Tennis. As they finalise the Term they play cricket in all forms, including fast paced, indoor and 4 wicket cricket. 

Year 9

In today's digital age, it is essential to be aware of the potential risks and dangers of the internet. Year 9 students have been learning about online safety and how to protect themselves from cyberbullying, identity theft, misinformation and other online threats. They have been discussing the importance of privacy settings, password security, and safe online behaviour. They are also now exploring a range of areas where safety is critical, including the outdoor environment - particularly sun safety - and as summer approaches, the water environment. Students recently spent time assessing our local waterways; looking closely at Lake Albert and how it is used by a variety of user groups. 

Year 9 students have also been learning about striking and fielding games in their Physical Education class. Softball and baseball are popular sports that require hand-eye coordination, speed, and agility. The students have been practising their batting, pitching, and fielding skills, as well as their teamwork and communication. They have been divided into teams and have been playing games against each other, using strategies and peer feedback to determine team objectives to score runs and effect outs.

Year 10

Students in Year 10  have been learning about the importance of valuing diversity. Diversity refers to the differences that exist between people, including their race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, and ability. Students have been discussing the benefits of diversity and how it can enrich their lives and the lives of others. They have also been learning about the negative effects of discrimination, prejudice and stereotypes and how to promote inclusivity and respect.

This term the focus is currently on Tchoukball. Tchoukball is a fast-paced, non-contact sport that requires speed, agility, and teamwork. The students have been learning the rules of the game, as well as the skills and strategies needed to be successful. They have been practising their passing, catching, and shooting skills, as well as how to prevent goals from being scored in a rare sport that sees teams able to score at either end of the court. 

As we move into 2027, PDHPE teachers have been working hard to develop and create new programs for our new PDHPE Syllabus. Many teachers have been conducting professional development, for new sports which will be introduced such as pickleball and conducting online meetings to enhance their knowledge in teaching the new Stage 6 Health and Movement Science. We thank those teachers for their ongoing commitment to ensuring high levels of education continue to Mater Dei in PDHPE. 

Mrs Courtney Dodds | PDHPE KLA Leader