1. Rationale for Teaching PDHPE in Primary Schools PDHPE creates an environment where students are encouraged to participate in physical activity.

2. PDHPE promotes a healthy lifestyle allowing students to make informed decisions, for example eating a balanced diet.

3. When students are well informed they are more likely to decrease risky behaviour and increase their overall health, which will have benefits in the present and in the future.

4. In Australia, a quarter of all boys and almost a quarter of all girls are overweight or obese. Therefore, the promotion of physical activity and nutrition in PDHPE in schools is important in decreasing these alarming statistics (NSW Government health, 2004).

5. Physical Activity Recommendations for 5-12 year olds A combination of moderate and vigorous activities for at least 60 minutes a day is recommended. Examples of moderate activities are a brisk walk, a bike ride or any sort of active play. More vigorous activities will make kids huff and puff and include organised sports such as football and netball, as well as activities such as ballet, running and swimming laps. Most importantly, kids need the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities that are fun and suit their interests, skills and abilities. Variety will also offer children a range of health benefits, experiences and challenges. Children shouldn't spend more than two hours a day using electronic media for entertainment (e.g. computer games, TV, internet), particularly during daylight hours (Department of Health and Ageing, 2010). Physical Activity Recommendations for 5-12 year olds A combination of moderate and vigorous activities for at least 60 minutes a day is recommended. Examples of moderate activities are a brisk walk, a bike ride or any sort of active play. More vigorous activities will make kids huff and puff and include organised sports such as football and netball, as well as activities such as ballet, running and swimming laps. Most importantly, kids need the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities that are fun and suit their interests, skills and abilities. Variety will also offer children a range of health benefits, experiences and challenges. Children shouldn't spend more than two hours a day using electronic media for entertainment (e.g. computer games, TV, internet), particularly during daylight hours (Department of Health and Ageing, 2010).