Reimagining the PDHPE Syllabus for Health and Movement Science
Mar 20, 2024
In this article, we will dive into some insights on mapping the new Health and Movement Science Syllabus to existing resources. With over 16 years in the classroom and extensive experience supporting teachers, I’ll be sharing my strategies for streamlining course development.
Introduction
The introduction of the new Health & Movement Science Syllabus presents both opportunities and challenges for PDHPE teachers. While it requires reimagining existing content, it also allows teachers to leverage their existing resources. You can map the new Health & Movement Science content points to the current Stage 6 PDHPE syllabus, highlighting connections to simplify planning.
Mapping the Syllabus
The good news? We’ve done the work for you! Click here to download a free mapping document comparing the new Health & Movement Science Syllabus to PDHPE for Focus Area One: Health for Individuals and Communities. The document charts the Health & Movement Science content points, critical questions and dot points against relevant modules from the existing syllabus. This allows teachers to identify where content overlaps and how existing lessons and activities can be repurposed.
Numerous links are drawn to core PDHPE modules covering similar topics such as dimensions of health, determinants of health, and social justice principles. This streamlines the transition by reducing the need to create new content from scratch.
Research Skills for Teachers
A key difference in the new syllabus is a stronger emphasis on research skills. This may be unfamiliar for some PDHPE teachers, but we’re here to help. You can access ongoing support through The Learning Network’s online courses and resources. Practical primary research is discussed as an opportunity for students to explore meanings of health in their community and share findings. Guidance is provided on ethical considerations and data collection methods.
Reimagining for Young People's Health
The new syllabus asks teachers to reimagine existing PDHPE content through a lens of young people's health. Generational differences, health issues and protective factors are discussed. Leverage your existing resources rather than reinventing materials, but if you have never taught the Option: The Health of Young People, The Learning Network has ample support available through their Health and Movement Science Membership.
Health Promotion Approaches
Several new approaches to health covered in Health and Movement Science include biomedical, socio-cultural and ecological models. Global health policies and the importance of partnerships between individuals, communities and governments are also examined. The Sustainable Development Goals present the biggest change and will be covered in an upcoming MasterClass for Health and Movement Science Members.
While some new concepts are introduced, the strong alignments allow significant repurposing of current resources. Ongoing support is offered by The Learning Network to help teachers tackle challenging areas and reimagine teaching for the health of young people.
Click here to find out more about the Health & Movement Science Membership: https://www.thelearnnet.com/hms
