1. ADVOCATING PDHPE IN PRIMARY
SCHOOLS
It is imperative that PDHPE is taught in Primary
Schools because it provides students with vital
knowledge concerning:
-Interpersonal Relationships
-Growth and Development
-Active Lifestyles (Games and Sports,
Gymnastics, Dance)
-Personal Health Choices
-Safe Living

2. Through PDHPE students learn how to form and
maintain positive relationships with other people.
They are taught about the negative affects of
bullying and discrimination, and discouraged from
participating in these kinds of anti-social
behaviours. Students also learn how to
communicate in an appropriate and kind manner, as
considering the needs and emotions of those
around them is emphasised. It is crucial that this is
taught in Primary Schools because it it provides
young people with a framework of how to become
positive and considerate members of society.
Interpersonal Relationships

3. PDHPE teaches students to become aware of their
personal identity, the physical changes that their
bodies are going through, and their social,
emotional and spiritual selves. This allows them to
develop positive relationships with their bodies and
could increase their sense of self-esteem. Students
also learn how to manage change and stress, which
will aid them as they make the transition from
Primary School to High School. PDHPE encourages
students to figure out what their values are, and
illuminates the concept that goals must be set in
order for achievements to be made, which are
lessons that are essential throughout life.
Growth and Development

4. Learning about how to lead an active and balanced lifestyle
through PDHPE in Primary Schools could instill positive
habits and mindsets, which might last well into adulthood.
Providing students with knowledge regarding nutrition
and exercise could prevent them from encountering health
issues such as obesity later in life. Games and sports allow
students to practice working together in a fair and positive
manner, which will be expected of them in higher
education and the workforce. Team sports also teach
students about what it means to take on particular roles
and responsibilities. Gymnastics and dance are examples of
alternative way to get active. Students might be
introduced to the aforementioned activities through
PDHPE, and then decide to pursue them outside of school,
leading to the acquisition of a new hobby or career path.
Active Lifestyles (Games and Sports,
Gymnastics, Dance)

5. PDHPE teaches students about balanced eating habits,
which allows them to make informed decisions about what
they consume, and perhaps influence their families to
make healthier choices. PDHPE illuminates the role of the
media in influencing eating habits, which encourages
students to see past the rhetoric in advertising and
product placement. Students also learn about the negative
affects of drug use, smoking and alcohol consumption, and
are provided with a safe environment to ask questions or
seek help if necessary. The information they gain will
hopefully discourage them from making these kinds of
unhealthy choices. Students also learn about
environmental health, which could lead to them becoming
passionate about issues such as global warming or
pollution.
Personal Health Choices

6. PDHPE in Primary Schools keeps students informed
about personal protection, road protection, water
safety and emergency procedures. This enables
students to practice safe habits in their everyday lives,
and become aware of what to do in emergency
situations. Practicing what to do in scenarios where
an individual is injured or in danger is beneficial to
children, as it prepares them in case such a situation
occurs. If children walk to and from school, or use
public transport, learning how to remain safe in these
situations could prevent an accident or dangerous
scenario from occurring.
Safe Living