TAFE encourages healthy student minds
Friday, 12 September 2008 2:14PM
Tropical North Queensland TAFE is delivering a pilot program to help students remain alert and enthusiastic in the classroom.
Dubbed 'Healthy Body, Healthy Mind', the program incorporates 45 minutes of physical activity before students enter the classroom, to help them wake up and remain alert for the duration of class.
TAFE Institute Director Jo Pyne said the pilot program was being conducted by teachers in TAFE's Indigenous Community Recreation course.
"They noticed a marked improvement on student attentiveness as well as performance and motivation over a two week period," Ms Pyne said.
"The 'Healthy Body, Healthy Mind' program was developed to help raise classroom participation and performance among students.
"Each day involved a different activity such as orienteering, ball games, fitness and hiking and the results pretty much spoke for themselves.
"Students responded very well and required fewer breaks, were refreshed and much more attentive."
TAFE's 'Healthy Body, Healthy Mind' program stems from the State Government's Eat Well Be Active campaign that encourages Queenslanders to find 30 minutes of activity a day.
This year is dubbed the Year of Physical Activity in Queensland state schools where students exercise their bodies as well as their minds.
"The Community Recreation program trains Indigenous students to deliver sport and recreation programs within their community.
"Where possible we combined activities with actual subject and assessment requirements," Ms Pyne said.
"It's also a great learning tool for students as they can see the benefits associated with fitness and physical activity, which they will take back into their communities."
Tropical North Queensland TAFE is now exploring opportunities to expand 'Healthy Body, Healthy Mind' into other training programs and courses.
Those seeking more information on the pilot program can contact TAFE on 1300 656 959.
25 August 2008