Educación Física y Salud

It has been a fantastic start to the year in Physical Education. In the first few weeks, all classes have been focusing on building strong routines, positive behaviours and safe practices so that learning can run smoothly for the rest of the year. Establishing these foundations early helps students feel confident, know what to expect and understand how to participate safely and respectfully. 

Preps

It has been wonderful to welcome our Prep students into the gym. As part of our start-up program, we have been practising important routines that will stay with us all year. Students are learning where to sit when they enter the gym, how to respond to different signals to stop and listen, when it is appropriate to go to the toilet, and how to show care and kindness during games and activities.

On their first day, we did a tour of our Physical Education spaces. We visited the gym, looked at where equipment is stored, and explored the toilets and surrounding areas so they could feel familiar and comfortable in the space.

Over the last two weeks, we have introduced simple games with no more than two rules. This helps students focus on understanding the game and following instructions without feeling overwhelmed. We have spoken about why rules are important: they help us stay safe, make the game fair and ensure everyone has fun. The Preps are already showing great enthusiasm and are developing their fundamental movement skills through active play. They are having a fantastic time and are eager to participate each lesson.

Grades 1/2s

With our Year 1 and 2 students, we have also revisited expectations and routines during the start-up program. We practised how to enter and exit the gym safely and calmly, and how to transition between specialist subjects. Building strong routines is essential because it maximises learning time, reduces confusion and supports a safe environment. When students know what to do and how to do it, they can focus more on developing their skills rather than managing behaviour.

Last week, we began teamwork activities such as relay races. Through these activities, students are learning how to cooperate, wait for their turn and encourage one another. We are focusing on using positive language to support teammates and celebrating effort, not just results. These experiences help students develop fair play and cooperative skills, which are key at this level.

This week, we have started our Athletics program with a specialist coach, Steve. He will be working with our students over the next four weeks, sharing his knowledge and passion for athletics. Students will practise basic locomotor skills such as running, jumping and dodging. They will also continue building teamwork and cooperation skills during these sessions. It is a great opportunity for them to refine their movement skills while enjoying structured and engaging activities.

Grades 3/4s

In Years 3 and 4, the start-up program focused strongly on respect and active listening. Establishing these expectations early ensures that teaching and learning can happen effectively. When students listen carefully and show respect to others, lessons run more smoothly and everyone benefits. This is part of creating a positive learning environment where students can safely take risks, try new skills and learn from mistakes.

Last week, we began our Net and Wall Games unit. Students are learning about the common features of games in this category. These are games where players send an object over a net or against a wall and work to keep the rally going or score points.

At this stage, students are using throwing and catching skills in modified activities before progressing to more complex striking skills. We are experimenting with balls and objects of different sizes and weights. This allows students to explore how applying different amounts of force changes the outcome. They are beginning to understand movement concepts such as space, effort and control. Students are also learning to apply simple strategies and reflect on what works best during gameplay.

Grades 5/6s

Due to interschool sport and the involvement of specialist teachers, we have made some timetable adjustments this term. Currently, all Year 5 and 6 students participate in Physical Education on Fridays.

Students selected for interschool sport are representing Newlands in softball, bat tennis and basketball. Last week, we competed against Merri-Bek Primary School. Our students performed strongly and won most of their games. More importantly, they demonstrated excellent sportsmanship and behaviours that reflect our school values. Today, we are playing against Coburg North here at Newlands Primary School, and families are warmly invited to come and support.

Students who are not participating in interschool competition remain at school and take part in a rotation of sport practices. These sports are the ones that will be offered for interschool sport in Term 2: netball, football and Australian Rules football. This rotation provides valuable exposure and gives students a chance to practise skills ahead of future trials.

When we host home games, these students also create signs and banners to support their peers. This helps them understand what interschool sport involves and encourages a sense of community and belonging. Their energy and support are greatly appreciated by the teams.

We are proud of the positive start all cohorts have made. Physical Education is not only about movement skills, but also about teamwork, respect, resilience and making active choices. We look forward to a strong and active year ahead.

Yours faithfully, 

Raúl - Health and PE Teacher