Health and Physical Education is an integrated area of study that provides for the intellectual, social, emotional, physical, and spiritual development of students. It involves students learning about and practising ways of maintaining active, healthy lifestyles and enhancing movement potential and appreciation of movement in their lives.

I read a recent article from Linda Stade “How to teach your child to be a perfect failure”. Linda is an education writer, speaker, and consultant who works with parents and teachers to help grow happy, healthy children who thrive on learning. Linda has produced interesting articles about successful teaching and learning and connecting with students.

The article has resonated with me, as I have witnessed students questioning their ability to challenge themselves in class due to fear of failing, or in their words, looking and feeling silly, not being able to master the skill or simply, it is not in their interest. Fear of failing can be humiliating for students and when we look up the definition of failure, we see such words as “doomed”, “unsuccessful” and, “lack of success”. However, when we look at the word failure in Health and Physical Education and Sports, we see it as offering invaluable insights into resilience, perseverance, and personal growth. 

In her article, Linda Stade explores the transformative potential of failure and its role in shaping our lives. While failure is often viewed through a negative lens, Stade challenges us to reframe our perception, recognising it as a natural and essential aspect of the learning process. Health and Physical Education provides a unique platform for students to grapple with failure in a supportive and nurturing environment. Whether it is mastering a new skill, improving fitness levels, or competing in team sports, students inevitably encounter obstacles and challenges along the way. However, it is through these challenges that they learn resilience, determination, and the importance of perseverance.

Consider a student struggling to perfect a tennis serve. Despite the time spent in class practising, and guidance from their teacher, they continue to fall short of their desired outcome. In this scenario, failure is not indicative of inadequacy but rather an opportunity for growth. By analysing their technique, seeking feedback, and applying persistent effort in class, the student learns valuable lessons in resilience and problem solving; skills that extend far beyond the tennis court.

In the realm of Health Education, failure takes on a different dimension, often manifesting as personal setbacks in adopting healthy lifestyle habits. Whether it is struggling to maintain a balanced diet, managing stress and anxiety, understanding relationships and diversity, students confront a number of challenges.  It is through these setbacks that they learn the importance of self-compassion, perseverance and the willingness to adapt and develop.

In conclusion, failure is not a reflection of our own shortcomings, but rather a testament to our capacity for growth and resilience. In Health and Physical Education, challenges serve as the catalyst for personal transformation, empowering students to overcome obstacles and thrive in the face of adversity.

The start of the year has been busy in the Health and Physical Education Field with all students involving themselves in a variety of physical activities and Health subjects.

Years 7 & 8 - Athletics Galore for Years 7 & 8 Students!

Years 7 & 8 students have kickstarted their Physical Education journey, engaging in various activities. They have delved deeply into the world of athletics, mastering the skills and techniques of both field and track. From sprinting to long jumping, they have been honing their abilities and fostering a spirit of teamwork and competition, especially leading into the Athletics Carnival.

Year 9

For practical lessons our Year 9 cohort has been immersed in the dynamic realm of striking and fielding sports and Court Sports. Softball, Soccer, and Golf have been the highlights, offering students opportunities to refine their coordination, strategic skills, and teamwork. The unit of Court Sports has allowed students to explore the intricacies of Badminton, Tchouck ball, and Netball. Students have been discovering new skills and tactics while fostering and embracing the varied challenges with enthusiasm.

Year 10

Year 10 students have embarked on sporting journeys filled with diversity, exploring an array of activities designed to challenge and inspire. Striking and fielding sports continue with Golf and Flag Footy (NFL), providing students with opportunities to refine their techniques and strategies. Meanwhile, the introduction of Sofcrosse and Tennis/Pickleball adds a new dimension to their sporting repertoire. From the fast-paced action of Volleyball to the strategic gameplay of Basketball and European Handball, students are embracing the challenges and joys of these dynamic sports, fostering teamwork, communication, and sportsmanship along the way.

Year 9 & 10 Health:

In tandem with their physical activities, Years 9 & 10 students have been delving into the vital realm of health education. Year 9 students have been focusing on Nutrition & Health, understanding the importance of balanced diets and healthy lifestyle choices. Meanwhile, Year 10 students have been gearing up for the road ahead with Road Ready sessions, equipping themselves with essential knowledge for safe and responsible driving.

Kym Darmody
LLWB – PDHPE/Sport & Wellbeing
Maathai House