Health & Physical EducationTe Hauora me te Whakapakari Tinana

Health & Physical Education supports students to build the knowledge, skills and confidence needed for lifelong wellbeing and active living. This learning area combines practical physical activity with classroom-based health learning, helping students understand how physical, mental, emotional and social wellbeing are connected. In the junior years, Health & PE is a core part of the curriculum, giving all students opportunities to develop movement skills, fitness, teamwork and resilience through a wide range of activities and sports.

Alongside practical work, students explore topics such as personal wellbeing, relationships, decision-making, safety and lifestyle choices. At senior levels, students can choose specialised courses including Physical Education, Health Education, Outdoor Education and sport and recreation pathways, blending theory with real-world application. Across all levels, the focus is on participation, reflection and growth — encouraging students to challenge themselves, support others and develop healthy habits that last well beyond school.

Physical Education

Physical Education at Lincoln High is more than sports — it’s a disciplined study of physical activity, movement, performance, and how active lifestyles contribute to lifelong wellbeing. Through a blend of theory and practice, courses encourage students to investigate sports science concepts, analyse movement skills, evaluate performance programmes, and reflect critically on physical activity trends and their impact on individuals and communities. Students perform activities, interpret data, and apply strategies to improve fitness and performance. This provides a strong foundation for tertiary study in areas like recreation management, physical education, health sciences, coaching, and sport science. It’s for students who enjoy exploring the science, strategy, and cultural value of physical activity and want to understand how performance relates to wellbeing over a lifetime.

Health Education

Health Education explores the things that affect wellbeing — from personal health choices to how wider society influences people’s lifestyles, relationships, and safety. This NCEA course helps students unpack topics like adolescent health issues, interpersonal relationships, strategies for managing change, and the effects of social, cultural, and environmental influences on wellbeing. Students engage with real examples and practical inquiry, building skills in research, analysis, and action planning to promote healthier communities. The course supports pathways into health-related fields such as psychology, community services, nursing, education, and social services, while also developing everyday decision-making skills that benefit personal wellbeing. Health Education is ideal for students who want to understand the “why” behind wellbeing issues and use that knowledge to make positive change for themselves and others.

Outdoor Education

Outdoor Education blends physical activity with environmental learning and adventure. Students engage in outdoor pursuits that build resilience, risk management skills, leadership and teamwork, while also connecting with Aotearoa/New Zealand’s natural landscapes. Field-based experiences help learners reflect on environmental responsibility, personal challenge and group cooperation. The course supports NCEA achievement through practical adventure, theory and reflection, and offers excellent pathways into outdoor instruction, recreation, conservation, tourism, leadership and education. Outdoor Education is ideal for students who enjoy being active outside, learning through experience, and growing their confidence in unfamiliar environments.