1. The importance of PDHPE in
Primary Schools
~ Rationale
~ Advocating teaching PDHPE in
Primary Schools

2. Rationale
Why is PDHPE important for Primary Schools?
 PDHPE focuses on the development of an individual as a whole
person.
 PDHPE helps individuals understand and value themself and
others around them.
 Promotes physical activity
 Highlights informed decision making leading to effective and
responsible action (Board of Studies NSW, 2007).
 5 essential skills students learn to develop in PDHPE is their
communicating, decision making, interacting, moving and
problem solving skills.

3. What does the ‘PD’ teach?
Students learn about their own
personal growth and development
and that of people around them.
Students focus on subject matters
such as personal identity, the body
and the changes.

4. What does the ‘H’ teach?
o Students focus on their mental, social,
physical and spiritual health and
wellbeing.
o Students learn about ways of gaining a
healthier life style. Focus on subject
matters like nutrition, drug use and
heath services.

5. What does the ‘PE’ teach?
PE promotes physical activity and
teaches children ways of adopting an
active life style.
Students also learn fundamental
movement patterns and coordinated
actions of the body (Board of Studies
NSW, 2007).

6. References
Board of Studies NSW. (2007). Personal Development,
Health and Physical Education K-6 Syllabus. Australia:
Foundation Statements.
Department of Health and Ageing [image] (2001,
November 29). Retrieved May 8, 2012, from
http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Con
tent/health-pubhlth-strateg-food-guide-guide2.htm