Physical Literacy and Quality Daily Physical Education (QDPE)

Physical literacy in the daily lives of children is a huge aspect of lifelong engagement in physical activity and overall well-being. Physical literacy and Quality Daily Physical Education (QDPE) help people stay active and healthy throughout their lives. Physical literacy means having the skills, confidence, and knowledge to enjoy different kinds of movement. QDPE ensures that students get regular, high-quality physical education that includes everyone and makes physical activity fun. Together, these ideas support lifelong health and well-being.

When people develop physical literacy, they gain the ability and confidence to participate in physical activities. Learning basic movement skills like running, jumping, and throwing helps people feel comfortable playing sports, exercising, or even being active, like walking your dog. Those who develop these skills early are more likely to stay active as they grow older.

Physical literacy is not just about skill, It also involves understanding why exercise is important and how it benefits the body. When people know how physical activity improves their health, they are more likely to make it a regular part of their routine. Being physically literate means being able to enjoy different types of movement, such as hiking, dancing, or swimming, which makes it easier to stay active at any age.

Quality Daily Physical Education (QDPE) ensures that students have regular opportunities to be active in a way that is fun and engaging. Unlike occasional gym classes, QDPE focuses on making physical education a consistent part of school life. This helps students improve their skills, build confidence, and enjoy movement. Another great thing about QDPE is that it includes everyone. Traditional gym classes can sometimes feel competitive, making less athletic students feel left out. QDPE, however, creates a welcoming environment where all students can participate and feel successful.  As slightly mentioned before, when students have positive experiences with physical activity, they are more likely to continue being active throughout their lives, which i Believe all P.E teachers need to always keep in mind.

Overall physical literacy and QDPE help people enjoy movement and stay healthy for life. Learning physical skills and building confidence makes it easier to stay active at any age. QDPE provides students with regular, inclusive, and enjoyable physical education, setting a strong foundation for lifelong activity Beyond school.

Comprehensive School Health (CSH) Model:

The Comprehensive School Health (CSH) model promotes physical, emotional, social, and mental well-being, making it a valuable approach in schools, workplaces, and communities. By integrating health into daily routines, CSH helps create environments that support overall well-being. 

By incorporating varied activities, such as fitness challenges, mindfulness exercises, and cooperative games, I can help students develop a lifelong appreciation for movement. I will also encourage healthy habits by collaborating with other teachers, promoting nutrition education, and creating a welcoming space where all students feel valued.

Outside the classroom, I can start school-wide wellness activities, Like staff fitness challenges or mental health awareness events. In conclusion By integrating CSH principles into my teaching It will help students develop not only physical literacy but also the skills and habits needed for lifelong health and well-being.

References

Comprehensive School Health Framework – HealthySchools BC. (2023, May 17). HealthySchools BC. https://healthyschoolsbc.ca/about/comprehensive-school-health/

Physical literacy. (2022). Fraserhealth.ca. https://www.fraserhealth.ca/health-topics-a-to-z/children-and-youth/physical-activity-for-children/physical-

literacyQDPE Award Standards. (2025). PHE Canada. https://phecanada.ca/community/quality-daily-physical-education-award-program/qdpe-award-standards