Secondary Education (Health and Physical Education)

Students will: Gain formal scientific knowledge, literacy and numeracy comprehension; demonstrate specialised knowledge and skills in health and PE, and a second discipline area, across a variety of classes and year classes within a second school environment; learn about the theories and fundamentals which would be the foundation for educational practice in secondary preferences; demonstrate an understanding of student needs and differences, and the relevance of these to learning in inclusive, indigenous, EALD and conventional preferences; aim and develop appropriate teaching tasks for students in a diverse range of backgrounds; develop and execute effective assessment strategies and perform evaluation of instruction programs, tools and their own instruction; apply the required content comprehension for all secondary school curriculum subjects to instruction, assessment and reporting methods, alternate/enhanced literacy and numeracy strategies, and the effective usage of ICT in learning and teaching; and think in their practice and experiences, and engage in a process of continual progress.

The Bachelor of Secondary Education (Health and Physical Education) at the University of Canberra is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for a dynamic career in teaching and promoting health and physical activity among secondary school students. This degree provides students with a strong foundation in educational theory, pedagogical strategies, and practical teaching skills, all tailored to the vibrant and evolving field of health and physical education. Throughout the course, students will explore a wide range of topics, including human anatomy and physiology, sports science, fitness assessment, as well as health promotion, nutrition, and mental health. The program emphasizes the development of effective teaching methods for engaging adolescents in health and physical education classes, fostering lifelong skills for students to maintain active and healthy lifestyles.

Students will undertake both theoretical coursework and practical teaching placements in secondary schools, enabling them to apply their learning in real-world settings. These placements are integral to developing classroom management skills, curriculum planning, and assessment techniques under the supervision of experienced educators. The curriculum is informed by current research and best practices in education and health sciences, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to meet the diverse needs of their future students. The program also encourages critical thinking about contemporary issues such as obesity, substance abuse, mental health, and inclusivity in physical activity.

Additionally, students will have opportunities to specialize or gain extra qualifications in areas such as sport and exercise science, coaching, or youth health promotion, enhancing their employability and professional versatility. The program is designed to foster not only knowledge and skills but also professionalism, ethical practice, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Graduates of this degree will be eligible for registration as secondary teachers in health and physical education and will be prepared to work in a variety of settings, including secondary schools, community programs, and health promotion agencies. The University of Canberra's focus on innovation, practical experience, and student-centered learning ensures that graduates are confident, competent, and ready to inspire the next generation in health and physical education.

Entry for the course is based on an entrance rank. A rank can be achieved by a year 1 2 ATAR, additional Australian eligibility, work experience, or an international qualification. All applicants will be required to finish a written statement in response to questions designed to assess their suitability to the teaching profession. Applicants' answers to such questions have to be deemed satisfactory for them to be admitted to the course. You can discover the questions from the'tools' part of the online application portal when you're applying. You can upload your answers from PDF format in your application.

The University of Canberra offers a range of financial support options for students enrolled in the Secondary Education (Health and Physical Education) program. Domestic students may be eligible for government-funded schemes such as Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP), which subsidize tuition fees, making higher education more affordable. Additionally, students can access a variety of scholarships designed to support academic achievement, leadership qualities, and community involvement. These scholarships may be awarded based on merit, financial need, or a combination of criteria, and they can significantly reduce the financial burden of tertiary education.

For international students, the university provides information on tuition fees and payment options, along with potential access to external scholarships from government or private organizations. Students are encouraged to explore the available financial aid opportunities early to ensure they meet application deadlines. The university also offers payment plans that allow students to spread the cost of tuition over manageable periods, such as semester or annual installments.

Furthermore, students can consider part-time employment opportunities both on and off campus to support their studies financially. The university’s career services can assist in finding suitable work placements that complement their academic commitments. Loan schemes, where applicable, are also available, though specific eligibility criteria and repayment terms vary. It is important for students to maintain awareness of their financial responsibilities and plan accordingly to avoid disruptions to their studies.

Overall, the University of Canberra strives to support its students financially through a combination of government funding options, scholarships, flexible payment arrangements, and employment support, ensuring that cost is not a barrier to achieving a degree in Secondary Education with a focus on Health and Physical Education.

The Secondary Education (Health and Physical Education) program at the University of Canberra is designed to prepare students for a career in teaching health and physical education at secondary school level. The program emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of both theoretical concepts and practical skills necessary for effective teaching in diverse classroom settings. Students engage in a combination of academic coursework and practical placements to develop their pedagogical skills, curriculum knowledge, and classroom management techniques. The curriculum covers foundational topics such as human movement, health promotion, sports science, and adolescent development, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to foster engaging and inclusive learning environments. The program also integrates current educational standards and practices, preparing students for accreditation and registration as teachers. Through partnerships with local schools and community organizations, students gain hands-on experience and insight into real-world teaching challenges and opportunities. The program aims to produce graduates who are not only knowledgeable in health and physical education content but also skilled in motivating and guiding students to adopt healthy lifestyles. Career prospects for graduates include teaching positions at secondary schools, roles in sports coaching, health promotion, and community fitness programs. The University of Canberra supports an innovative learning environment, equipped with modern facilities, dedicated teaching staff, and access to the latest educational technologies. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities, research projects, and professional development opportunities to enhance their teaching capabilities. Overall, this program seeks to develop competent, reflective, and socially responsible educators ready to contribute positively to the well-being and education of young people.