Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE)

At Port Hacking High School, the PDHPE Faculty inspires students to develop the knowledge, understanding and skills needed to make positive choices that enhance their own and others’ health, safety and wellbeing. In an increasingly complex and fast-changing world, students learn to think critically, adapt to new health contexts and confidently embrace a range of physical activity opportunities.

Through PDHPE, students explore and value Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ ways of knowing, being and doing, recognising how these perspectives inform personal, social and community health practices.

The study of PDHPE lays the groundwork for lifelong engagement in physical activity. Students develop an appreciation for movement by refining physical, cognitive, social and emotional skills across a variety of activities. They build confidence, resilience and teamwork while learning strategies to maintain safe, active and healthy lifestyles.

PDHPE also supports students in developing a strong sense of identity and connection. They learn to communicate respectfully, regulate emotions and take responsible action in both online and offline environments. Learning experiences encourage students to become proactive in promoting the wellbeing of themselves and their communities.

Through the development of health literacy, students learn to analyse and evaluate the many factors that influence individual and community health. They are equipped to interpret information critically, challenge assumptions and make informed decisions that support lifelong wellbeing.

Courses

Physical Activity and Sports Studies (PASS)

Physical Activity and Sports Studies (PASS) at Port Hacking High School gives students the chance to explore how physical activity supports a healthy, balanced lifestyle. The course includes a variety of activities such as recreation, fitness, adventure, and both competitive and non-competitive sports.

Students engage in practical and theoretical learning to understand how physical activity benefits health, wellbeing, and performance. They explore the physical, emotional, social, and cultural advantages of being active and how movement supports enjoyment, challenge, therapy, and personal growth.

PASS develops students’ movement skills, confidence, and understanding of body performance. They learn to analyse movement, help others improve, and appreciate the artistic side of physical activity.

Key benefits of PASS include:

Building leadership, communication, organisation, and teamwork skills
Preparing for careers in sport, recreation, health, and fitness
Encouraging lifelong physical activity and healthy community participation

Camp: A 4-day ski trip is offered annually for Year 10 PASS students.

Health and Movement Science (Stage 6) (ATAR)

At Port Hacking High School, Health and Movement Science engages students in studying factors that influence health, wellbeing, and physical performance. Drawing on anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, psychology, sociology, nutrition, and skill acquisition, students learn how science optimises movement and health outcomes.

Students investigate Australia’s health status, exploring epidemiology, health determinants, social justice, equity, access, and sustainability issues. They also examine global health through the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the World Health Organisation’s health promotion initiatives.

Practical learning through physical activity allows students to apply theory to real world contexts, improving performance, preventing injury, and promoting lifelong activity.

Key benefits include:

Developing skills in collaboration, communication, critical thinking, and research
Understanding health equity and global health perspectives
Preparing for lifelong engagement with health and movement

Camp: A Year 12 HMS Camp accompanies the course to enrich student learning.

Sports Lifestyle and Recreation (Non Atar)

In Sport Lifestyle and Recreation, students learn the importance of a healthy, active lifestyle and the value of responsible, informed decision making. The course helps students develop skills and understanding in various sports and recreational activities, encouraging a lifelong commitment to physical activity and reaching movement potential. Students can specialise through optional modules.

Modules include: