Teacher in Charge: Mrs Maree McCarthy mmccarthy@wdsg.school.nz
Course description:
This course will enhance students' knowledge and critical thinking skills regarding the fundamental concepts in Health and their impact on themselves, others, and society. The curriculum addresses contemporary issues affecting youth, providing students with opportunities to drive positive change. It encourages the development of strategies to foster healthy practices, supporting personal growth and prompting reflection on fairness and justice.
Students will delve into attitudes and values, gaining insight into behaviours that promote equity, respect, care, and social justice. The course integrates the values of Waikato Diocesan School for Girls helping students understand their role in society and how they can contribute to meaningful change. Learning objectives are tailored to meet the needs of the students, using current and relevant contexts.
By the end of the course, and depending on the selected standards, students should have a comprehensive understanding of a wide array of Health issues prevalent in New Zealand.
Course of study:
The following topics will likely be covered in 2026:
• Resilience: How might people cope with life’s inevitable changes? What could make it harder or easier to cope with the change?
• Adolescent health issues: Investigate the influences on, consequences of and possible health-enhancing strategies for a current adolescent health issue.
• Sexuality and Gender: What factors influence our gender and sexual identity? What might be the issues around these concepts? How and why might something be done about the issues in a way that reflects the values of social justice?
Assessment:
15 credits available at NCEA Level 2
2 Internal and 1 external assessment
An additional 5 credits may be available for some students
Costs:
$100 towards health practice experiences
Entry criteria:
Open entry but an interest in health and allied health topics.
Future pathways:
NCEA Level 3 Health
Health Education can be studied at tertiary levels as a science or humanities subject. It leads to a wide variety of careers in social, community and medical health sectors.