In the spotlight
By Ms Jessie Thearle, Head of Health & Physical Education
It’s been an exciting and progressive time in the health and physical education (HPE) department, where our team of dedicated educators - Ms Edwina Bone, Mr James Mann, Mr Tom Gleeson, Ms Caitlin Hackett, Mr Nicholas Szabo, Ms Di Lefebvre, Mr Brad Davis and Ms Ashlee Turner - have brought immense energy, creativity and collaboration to our teaching practice.
This year, staff have worked hard to refresh the Year 8 Body in Motion unit, previously known as Gymnastics. The redesigned program has evolved into a more contemporary movement unit, embracing a wider range of activities to better engage students and reflect modern understandings of physical literacy. Input from specialist coaches and our external partner, Canberra City Gymnastics Club, has enhanced the learning experience and professional growth for staff and students alike. This partnership has allowed teachers to deepen their own practice while offering students enriching, hands-on lessons.
Across all year levels, staff have designed purposeful learning experiences that build movement competence, promote positive relationships and explore real-world health issues. From Year 7’s foundation in movement and net sports, to Year 10’s exploration of strength training, leisure activities and cultural sports, each program has been thoughtfully developed with student engagement at its core.
Secondary School teachers have also expanded learning beyond the classroom. Highlights included Year 11 exercise science students studying human anatomy at the University of Canberra - an initiative that strengthened their connection to tertiary pathways. Staff in the PEA (Physical Education Accredited) and PER (Physical Education Registered) programs have consistently found creative ways to connect curriculum to life, with excursions to the Aqua Park, among others, proving to be both educational and memorable.
As we look to the year ahead, the department is focused on continuing to develop innovative curriculum offerings, including further expansion of the Body in Motion unit. The team is also planning to explore new technologies and pedagogical strategies to enhance student learning outcomes.
The HPE department remains committed to providing meaningful, active and inclusive learning experiences, led by a team passionate about health, movement and education.