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Students and Staff bring energy to National HPE Day
02.09.20
Today the College celebrated the National Health and Physical Education (HPE) Day. Students and staff were encouraged to wear their PE uniform to support the day designed to raise awareness for a greater focus on HPE in our schools. Statistically, Australian school children rank among the worst in the world when it comes to their physical activity levels. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reported these facts.
In 2017/18:
• 25% of children and adolescents (2 to 17) were overweight or obese;
• 67% of adults were overweight or obese; and
• 31% of all Australians were obese – up 12% from 1995.
Schools and teachers play a critical role in teaching Australian children the benefits of leading an active and healthy lifestyle. Along with parents/ caregivers, the community and the government, the obesity trend line can be changed.
To help reverse the trend, quality health and physical education (HPE) needs to continue to be delivered in our schools. Our young learners can be taught skills and can have the knowledge and understanding of how to lead an active and healthy lifestyle. While HPE is one of the eight learning areas in the Australian School Curriculum, research shows that children’s participation in physical activity can have a broader and positive influence on student engagement, improved academic achievement, and better health outcomes in adult life. Along with parents and our community, schools and teachers play a critical role in teaching Australian children the benefits of leading an active and healthy lifestyle.
The theme of the day was Good for Children, Good for Schools and Good for Communities.
Thanks to all staff who engaged in the day, for taking their students out to play areas, ovals and courts or ran a more structured PE lesson. It all contributes to our students having a healthy lifestyle.
Thank you to those who ran the Senior School lunchtime Founder Team Basketball Tournament and the Junior School ‘Just Dance’. It was fantastic to watch.
Ian Ross | Years 8 to 12 Sports Coordinator