The Case for Physical Education: A Cornerstone of Holistic Education

In the pursuit of academic excellence, schools often pour resources and energy into the sciences and mathematics, as these subjects scale well in the ATAR system. Despite the immediate benefits of this approach, a truly world-class and balanced education must nurture the whole student — physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially. This is where Physical Education proves not only relevant, but essential. Physical Education is a core pillar of a balanced and forward-thinking education. Somerset College PE Department takes this very seriously, and we are passionate about helping every single student achieve their best academic, health, and life outcomes.

At its core, PE develops physical literacy, the ability to move with competence and confidence in a wide variety of physical activities. Just as we expect students to be literate in mathematics and language, physical literacy equips students with the tools for a lifetime of health and participation. This literacy enhances not just physical wellness but cognitive functioning, coordination, and personal discipline, all attributes essential for elite academic performance and leadership.

Countless peer-reviewed studies from around the world show that physical activity directly correlates with improved memory, concentration, and academic performance. Physical Education stimulates the brain’s executive function, improving critical thinking skills and classroom behaviour. Schools, like Somerset, that treat PE as an academic equal, not an afterthought, see gains in overall student achievement and engagement.

PE is a natural arena for developing resilience, leadership, teamwork, and empathy. Students learn how to win with grace, lose with dignity, and collaborate across diverse groups. These are not ancillary life skills — they are central to thriving in high-pressure academic and work environments and future global careers.

Moreover, in a time where stress, anxiety, and burnout are increasingly common among high-achieving youth, PE provides an essential outlet for stress, improves mood through endorphin release, and helps students develop healthy coping strategies. It is a frontline defence in the mental health crisis affecting adolescents worldwide. In today’s fast-paced world, the emotional well-being of students is more important than ever. Regular physical activity has a positive effect on mood, stress levels, and sleep, making PE an important contributor to mental health.

Elite education must go beyond knowledge acquisition; it must also build character. On the field, court, or track, students confront challenges that develop grit, perseverance, and ethical decision-making. Physical Education allows students to push limits, embrace discomfort, and create the mental toughness that future leaders require.

Today’s PE curriculum at Somerset College extends far beyond traditional team sports. Our department integrates biomechanics, exercise physiology, sports psychology, nutrition, performance analytics, and personal fitness and lifestyle planning. Students graduate with a sophisticated understanding of the human body, health science, and data literacy — all while developing personal accountability and wellness habits that last a lifetime.

Year 12 Somerset College students continue to graduate from Physical Education with exit levels of achievement that far exceed the State average, and the majority of students use this result for their ATAR, making PE a highly beneficial subject for senior studies. Furthermore, the majority of universities require PE as a prerequisite for entry into their Exercise and Health Sciences programs. We are educating future doctors, scientists, designers, engineers — individuals who will shape society. Ensuring they leave Somerset with a deep appreciation for physical health and well-being is a responsibility that we cannot neglect, as educators or as parents. Physical Education instills values that extend to family life, workplace productivity, and community leadership.

In a world where sedentary lifestyles, screen addiction, social isolation, and preventable diseases are on the rise, Physical Education is no longer a luxury; it is a necessity.

Physical Education stands proudly at the heart of Somerset’s mission, shaping not just scholars, but strong, resilient, balanced, and healthy young people prepared to lead the World.