Te Au Hauora | Health

In Class 8 Health, students embark on a holistic journey towards understanding and nurturing their wellbeing. They delve into the multifaceted aspects of health through various models, such as the the Fonua model and the Whare Tapa Wha model, which emphasises four dimensions: physical health, mental health, spiritual health, and family/social health. This exploration equips them with a comprehensive understanding of what it means to be truly well-rounded human beings.

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Students learn practical, essential skills to care for their bodies effectively, including but not exclusively; nutrition, medicine, diet, and hygiene. By understanding the importance of each major food group they can begin to grasp what they need to eat to support their growing bodies. This empowers them to make informed decisions that promote personal health.

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A significant focus of the curriculum is on fostering healthy relationships. Through discussions and activities, students unravel the dynamics of relationships and hone effective communication skills. They learn to navigate changes in relationships with resilience and empathy, while also recognising and valuing diversity in friendships. Additionally, they develop interpersonal skills that not only enhance friendships but also equip them to address bullying situations confidently and assertively. As part of this holistic approach, students also engage in discussions and activities that help them understand the natural cycles of change, cope with loss and grief, and emerge with greater resilience and empathy towards themselves and others.

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Sexual Health is explored sensitively and inclusively, reflecting the complexities of today's world. Students continue to develop an awareness of personal identity and self-worth, fostering a sense of acceptance and respect for themselves and others. DIscussions of support structures and access to counselors and outside providers ensures that students have the necessary support and guidance in understanding and navigating these topics.

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In line with Waldorf pedagogical aims, the curriculum aims to foster a sense of connectedness to the world, encouraging students to recognize their role in contributing to the greater good. Through conscious social skill development and personal goal setting, students are empowered to take ownership of their health and wellbeing, thereby cultivating a sense of responsibility towards themselves and their communities. By embracing these principles, students emerge from Class 8 Health equipped with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to lead happy, healthy lives.