This term we as a school will provide the opportunity for Year 8s, Year 9s and Year 10s to select elective subjects to study in 2021. In HPE we are excited to offer a range of subjects to cater for a range of students. The last newsletter included a graphic outlining the Year 11 subject offerings for students currently in Year 10.

For students currently in Year 8, HPE has two elective subjects they can choose. It is important to note that all students complete a semester of HPE in Year 9, and that the two electives are significantly different from the compulsory HPE. The elective subjects are outlined below:

Health and Wellbeing:

This subject aims to develop a thriving individual. The concept of thriving is about personal development processes to become a healthier and stronger person. This health and strength is explored through a range of domains including physical, mental, emotional and social. To thrive, we need to be self-aware and knowledgeable of a range of sustainable strategies. The subject contains two units across the year –

Unit 1: Focusing inwards.

Topic 1: A thriving body – in this topic we will explore a range of strategies to influence the health and wellbeing of our physical selves. These strategies will include nutrition, sleep, range of movement (through Yoga and flow practice) and breathwork.

Topic 2: A thriving mind – in this topic we will explore a range of strategies to influence the health and wellbeing of our mental and emotional selves. These strategies will build on concepts covered in the CARE program and include mindfulness, affirmation, growth mindset, goal setting, journaling, kindness and meditation.

Unit 2: Focusing outwards.

Topic 1: Thriving relationships – in this topic we will explore a range of influences on the health and wellbeing of our social selves. Concepts will include personal values, communication, empathy and respect.

Topic 2: Thriving through challenge – in this topic we will experience a range of challenge activities that incorporate the strategies we will have learned throughout the course. One potential activity is a school camp experience.

It is important to note that this subject does not incorporate any sports, games or physical fitness.

Extension Physical Education:

This subject aims to develop an intelligent sportsperson. This is achieved through the study of scientific processes and concepts that can be manipulated to improve personal sport performance.

You need to have achieved either an “A” or “B” overall in Year 8 HPE to enrol in this subject. This subject will extend your knowledge and capacity to influence your own performance across a number of sports. Each unit will assess knowledge in, through and about physical performance.

Shane Roberts
HOD HPE