At Duncraig Primary School, our Physical Education program plays a vital role in supporting students to develop fitness, coordination, teamwork and a lifelong appreciation for active, healthy living.
Our program aligns with the Western Australian Curriculum: Health and Physical Education, which can be accessed here:
WA Health & Physical Education Curriculum
Physical Education is delivered by our specialist teacher, Mr Ted Orzel (“Mr O”), who works across all year levels to provide high?quality, engaging and inclusive learning experiences. The program has a long?standing tradition of promoting sportsmanship, respect and team building, ensuring all students feel supported and encouraged to participate.
Our Approach to Physical Education
Under the guidance of Mr O, students develop:
- Fundamental movement skills such as running, jumping, throwing and catching
- Game sense and strategic thinking
- Teamwork, cooperation and communication skills
- Resilience, perseverance and positive sportsmanship
Lessons are structured to provide opportunities for skill development, practice and game application, ensuring students build confidence and competence in a variety of physical activities.
Swimming and Water Safety
Duncraig Primary School participates in the Department of Education’s In?Term Swimming program, providing students with essential swimming and water safety skills.
In?Term Swimming Program – Department of Education WA
- Pre?Primary to Year 4 students attend lessons at the local swimming pool
- Year 5 and 6 students participate in swimming lessons at the beach, further developing confidence and safety skills in an open water environment
This statewide program supports students to develop vital swimming and water safety skills for life. [education.wa.edu.au]
School Carnivals and Events
Duncraig Primary School offers a range of whole?school sporting events that are highlights of the school year and foster school spirit and participation.
These include:
- Athletics Carnival
- Cross Country Carnival
- Swimming Carnival (for senior students)
These events encourage participation, teamwork and healthy competition while celebrating student achievement and effort.
Interschool Sport
Students in the upper primary years have opportunities to represent Duncraig Primary School in interschool competitions against neighbouring schools.
These include:
- Athletics (Years 3–6)
- Cross Country (Years 3–6)
- Winter Sports (Years 5–6), including:
- AFL
- Soccer
- Volleyball
- Netball
Through these experiences, students develop valuable skills in team representation, responsibility, cooperation and leadership.
Additional Opportunities and Achievements
Older students are provided with opportunities to further extend their participation in sport and physical activity.
These include:
- Participation in annual triathlon events, supporting the development of endurance and personal goal setting and a pathway into the Duncraig Senior High School Triathlon Program, a specialist program designed to support young athletes in developing their triathlon skills and performance
Duncraig SHS Triathlon Program
Duncraig Primary School also has a proud history of student achievement, with students being selected for state teams in sports such as:
- AFL
- Gymnastics
- Swimming
These achievements reflect the strength of our program and the dedication of our students.
Building Connections Through Sport
A unique feature of our Physical Education program is the range of tabloid events organised by Mr O throughout the year. These involve multi?age group activities, allowing students to work alongside peers across different year levels.
These experiences:
- Foster positive relationships and school connectedness
- Provide leadership opportunities for older students
- Create a strong sense of community and belonging
Developing Active and Positive Learners
Through our Physical Education program, we aim to develop students who:
- Enjoy being active and value physical health
- Demonstrate teamwork and respectful behaviour
- Show resilience and a willingness to challenge themselves
- Take pride in representing their school
At Duncraig Primary School, Physical Education supports not only physical development, but also the social and emotional growth of every student.
