Integrating Sport Into the Physical Education Curriculum in New Zealand Secondary Schools

Abstract

Schools are important in shaping the values and beliefs of young people. One value claimed to be important to New Zealanders is participating in sport. New Zealand has an impressive international sporting record for a country with a small population, and many forms of recreation and sport are deemed to be socially and culturally significant and positive contributors to society. If done well, physical education is one medium that can positively impact values associated with participation in recreation and sport. This essay paints a portrait of physical education in New Zealand secondary schools and comments on the potential for including sports education in the curriculum.