Health & Physical Education

Learning to take responsibility for one’s own health and well being in life is one of the most important skills people can do for themselves.  As most people are aware, maintaining a physically active lifestyle is one of the key components in maintaining a healthy balanced life. Invariably much of our lifestyle habits are learnt during childhood. It is therefore imperative that as our children progress through their education, they are provided with regular opportunities to participate in recurrent physical activity in Physical Education and Sport classes.

Physical education programs in schools directly benefit students’ physical health. Getting the recommended amount of exercise combats obesity, which subsequently reduces the risk for diabetes, heart disease, asthma, sleep disorders and other illnesses. Regular exercise also contributes to cardiovascular health and promotes muscle and bone development. In addition to participating in physical activity, students in PE learn the fundamentals of a healthy lifestyle, the building blocks upon which they can develop into healthy, knowledgeable adults.

Studies have also shown that physical activity contributes to improved academic performance. Regular activity during the school day is strongly associated with higher concentration levels as well as more directed, composed behavior.

Activities in PE help children develop healthful social interactions. From a young age, children learn cooperation through group activities and form a positive sense of identity as part of a team. Such group activities are continually important as children grow older.

The benefits of PE to a child’s mental health are both complex and comprehensive. Improved physical health, academics and social interactions all contribute to good mental health.

At Melba College, we provide each student in every year level with a rich opportunity to engage in regular physical activity through our comprehensive Physical Education programs. Year 7-10 students have the opportunity to participate in our extensive core program, allowing students to learn and participate in a wide range of sports and activities. Our year 9 & 10 students also has a wonderful array of elective Physical Education subjects from which they can also select, to further enhance their knowledge and exposure to physical activities.

Melba College also offers VCE Physical Education in units 1-4, for students who may be thinking about pursuing further studies within this field.