Personal development, health and physical education

Personal development, health and physical education (PDHPE) is mandatory from Kindergarten to Year 10.

According to the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA), students are expected to participate in PDHPE for 300 hours per year in Years 7 to 10.

PDHPE provides students with opportunities to explore issues that are likely to impact on the health, safety and wellbeing of themselves and others – now and in the future. Students also participate in challenging and enjoyable physical activity, improving their capacity to move with skill and confidence.

PDHPE is a compulsory subject in the Years 7 to 10 curriculum, and available as an elective in Years 11 and 12. In Year 9 and 10, students are also provided with the opportunity to study an elective in physical activity and sport studies. This subject encompasses a rather diverse range of subject matter including physical education, nutrition, road safety, drug and drug abuse, mental health, disease, developing and maintaining healthy relationships, contraception, first aid, sexuality, discrimination and anti-discrimination laws.

The PDHPE faculty at Hawkesbury High School aim to educate and develop in each student knowledge and skills they will need for everyday life. Particular focus is on providing students with opportunities which allow them to think critically about key issues related to health and physical activity, in order to make informed decisions that support and contribute to healthy, active lifestyles and communities.