This curriculum helps students develop an
understanding of what they need in order to make a commitment to lifelong healthy,
active living and develop the capacity to live satisfying, productive lives. Healthy, active
living benefits both individuals and society in many ways – for example, by increasing
productivity and readiness for learning, improving morale, decreasing absenteeism,
reducing health-care costs, decreasing anti-social behaviour such as bullying and violence,
promoting safe and healthy relationships, and heightening personal satisfaction. Research
has shown a connection between increased levels of physical activity and better academic
achievement, better concentration, better classroom behaviour, and more focused learning.
Other benefits include improvements in psychological well-being, physical capacity,
self-concept, and the ability to cope with stress.