They choose courses which reflect their interests and abilities, and their anticipated educational and vocational directions. Post-compulsory subjects and programs in this learning area focus on health and physical activity, personal development, beliefs and values systems, early childhood parenting skills, skills to assist movement into independent living situations and career pathways. Students learn to live and assist others in harmony with the natural environment. Knowledge and Understanding Adolescents should be provided with opportunities to explore the complex social, cultural, environmental and political influences on the health status of individuals and groups within society. Learning situations should focus on contexts that require students to demonstrate analytical skills and strategies in response to perceived and actual influences affecting the health and safety needs of populations.
Students now have their own strategies for making judgments and decisions.
They can critically examine the effects of programs on individuals and groups within the community, such as the aged or special groups whose experiences disadvantage them. Through learning and teaching programs they are able to consider laws and policies and develop strategies to effect change where necessary. In the school context they are able to plan site-based health promotion campaigns. Students develop strategies to avoid harm and manage changes that may cause stress in their lives, such as unwanted pregnancies or suicidal feelings, and they actively evaluate the effects of these strategies. Adolescents face particular pressures related to school performance and parental and peer expectations.