Health & Physical Education I was reminded of what a great College we work and learn within earlier this year when one of my best laid plans for a PE class had to be modified at the last minute. I had intended to use the gym for a practical laboratory activity for my VCE PE class, but I discovered that it was unavailable. I decided to use the bus set down area as the best (and only remaining free space in the College) to have my boys conduct their repeat sprint test to analyse their capability to restore high energy muscle phosphates between sprints. On our way over to the bus set down area, I saw virtually every available PE space being used productively, with boys engaged in meaningful and varied PE classes. A Year 8 PBL class with Mr Querella was playing one of their rounds of AFL football on Zampatti Oval. Students not involved in playing at the time were busy either collecting statistics to use in later classes, umpiring or videoing the game in preparation for the end of season celebration and reflection class. I was informed later that a student had been fitted with one of our Catapult GPS devices to record his movement patterns, running speeds and distance covered, again as a means for later discussion and learning. Mr Breheny was working closely with a VCAL PE class on Aphrasia Oval, focusing on catching. Many would think that such a ‘basic’ motor skill is quickly and easily learnt, but Mr Breheny was delving into his extensive kitbag of expertise to challenge the more gifted students yet also allow struggling students to learn and experience success. It was apparent that all students were enjoying this activity.
Witnessing these two examples of meaningful teaching and learning within the PE/Health framework prompted me to reflect on all that we offer here at SJC. Where our dedicated staff strive to provide engaging and meaningful lessons across the variety of areas within our curriculum. Outdoor and Environmental Studies explored how we can interact and utilise our outdoor environments for recreation in a sustainable way, classes investigated health and human development in local, Australian and global communities, VET Sport and Recreation, Sport Science, Footsloggers, High Performance Academy....the list is extensive!! I would like to make special mention again of the work completed this year by Mr Sam Querella in his role as logistics and programming coordinator. Having worked in this capacity previously, I understand the time and effort that goes into planning our practical activities and ensuring we have the required equipment. Thanks also to Mr Mark Rayson for coordinating the Outdoor Education department. At the time of writing, I am also aware that two of our long serving PE teachers, Mr and Mrs Wrigley will be leaving us at the end of the year.Thank you both for your contributions to our domain and the wider school community. We are better for having worked with you and learnt from you! - Nick Jones, Health & PE Coordinator
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