Our Year 11 and 12 students had the opportunity to visit the Australian College of Physical Education (ACPE) on Monday, 20 February.  The College is based at Sydney Olympic Park, and they organised a special school’s program in Factors affecting performance and Strength and conditioning for athletes.

 

The students’ knowledge was extended by learning about the efficiency of an athlete’s ability to use their Energy systems.  They participated in a variety of fitness tests with up-to-date technology systems such as motion sensors to accurately measure their speed over 20m.  Many of the students participated in ‘The Windgate’ Test which is used to measure the student’s accumulation of lactic acid caused by performing at an extremely high intensity.  One of our students, Alex Hartup participated in a Vo2 Maximum test.  This test measured Alex’s aerobic system and his maximum heart rate.  Alex recorded an excellent score reaching 215bpm maximum heart rate and 65ml/kg/min oxygen usage.  The afternoon at ACPE concluded with the students participating in a strength based circuit focussing on developing muscular endurance.

The next day we visited the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre.  This venue was originally constructed for the Sydney Olympics in 2000.  It was a fantastic opportunity for the students to enjoy this wonderful venue as well as observe a school swimming and diving competition.

I would like to commend all of the students for representing our school with pride through their fantastic behaviour and manners.  I am confident that the students have gained an excellent insight into the training and commitment that is required to become an elite athlete.

A special thank you to following for making the excursion an amazing experience:

Kelly Parry and Tom Mandleberg – Australian College of Physical Education
Dru Pruwett – Bus driver

And most importantly to Nicole Lovern and Todd Curtis our wonderful Physical Educators.

Karina Hogan
Leader of Learning, PDHPE