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At the heart of this program is the School’s commitment to holistic education, placing student wellbeing at the forefront. With weekly PDHPE lessons in Junior School, students engage in activities that not only promote physical fitness but also build essential life skills, fostering a well-rounded foundation for personal growth.

"PDHPE is so much more than sport or exercise," explains Irem Mooney, the Junior School’s specialist PDHPE teacher.

"It’s about equipping our students with the tools to make healthy, informed choices while also developing their confidence, resilience, and teamwork skills. Seeing them thrive in both structured lessons and creative games is incredibly rewarding."

The PDHPE syllabus at Calrossy Junior School is grounded in three key areas:

- Health, Relationships, and Wellbeing

- Healthy, Safe, and Active Lifestyles

- Movement Skills and Performance.

These areas are explored through a combination of classroom discussions and practical activities, allowing students to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world applications. For example, students participate in modified games, fitness challenges, and cross-stage learning initiatives, such as Year 4 students teaching movement skills to Prep, fostering collaboration and mentorship across year groups.

“Activities like choreographed dances, Indigenous games, and bike safety days demonstrate the diversity of our program. They show students that being active can take many forms, all of which contribute to their overall wellbeing,” Mrs Mooney adds.

The inclusion of a robust PDHPE program also benefits families. By integrating physical education and health development into the school day, parents can feel confident their children are receiving opportunities for physical activity and skill-building in a structured, supportive environment.

“We understand how busy life can be for families,” says Mrs Mooney.

“Our program ensures that students are not only staying active but are also learning how to manage their health, build relationships, and grow as individuals—all without adding extra pressure on parents to coordinate these experiences outside school.”

The program’s success is reflected in the students’ enthusiasm and participation, as well as its emphasis on lifelong learning. From early swimming lessons to leadership roles in game design for older students, Calrossy’s approach inspires a love of movement and a commitment to wellbeing.

As Calrossy continues to innovate in education, its PDHPE program serves as a testament to the School’s dedication to nurturing the whole child. By providing these tailored opportunities, the Junior School prepares students not only for academic success but also for healthier, happier lives.

“With the skills and habits they’re developing now, we’re giving them the best possible start to lead active, fulfilling lives long after they leave the Junior School.”

The integration of PDHPE in the Junior School curriculum not only provides immediate benefits for students but also establishes a strong foundation for their transition into Calrossy’s Secondary School. By building movement skills, fostering teamwork, and emphasising health education from an early age, students are well-prepared to embrace the more advanced programs offered in the Secondary School and the Calrossy Sport Department.

Mrs Mooney reflects, “The journey doesn’t stop when students leave Junior School. Everything we do here is about setting them up for success—not just in sport, but in life. It’s exciting to see how far they go when they carry these lessons forward.”