Abstract:
This is a discussion document, which explores the notions of risk and safety within the Health and Physical Education Curriculum. The focus on risk management and safety are a consequence of concerns and recognition of ‘risk’ in communities; risks to children’s health, and safety issues when keeping children safe. The National Administration Guidelines 5 (i) and (ii) (Ministry of Education, 2003), which direct schools to provide a ‘safe physical and emotional environment for students’ and to comply with any legislation to ‘ensure the safety of students’ is a manifestation of this concern. Mention is made of the effect that this emphasis on ‘risk’ and safety has on teachers’ practice.