NSW public school students in years 5 to 12 will learn about military service, veterans’ health, as well as what it means to live with a disability as part of an initiative helping to share the spirit of the Invictus Games Sydney 2018 presented by Jaguar Land Rover.
Minister for Veterans Affairs David Elliott today launched the Invictus Games Sydney 2018 Education Project at Baulkham Hills High School, along with Invictus Games Sydney CEO Patrick Kidd OBE and 2018 Australian Invictus Games Team member Peter Arbuckle.
Mr Elliott said the Games was a unique opportunity to help students learn about inclusivity, mental and physical health, and resilience. “The Games promote community service and encourage students to think deeply about the sacrifice that defence personnel make every day,” said Mr Elliott.
“This project is the first of its kind in Australia and it will give teachers an opportunity to offer a unique learning experience as we commemorate the Centenary of Anzac.”
The initiative will promote NSW syllabus outcomes, complementing the curriculum in various areas of study including PDHPE, English and History. It includes a new history resource aimed at deepening student appreciation of Australia’s military service.
Patrick Kidd OBE, CEO Invictus Games Sydney 2018, is looking forward to welcoming the children from across the state to the Games and is thrilled that the education program will live beyond the Games.
“The teaching materials talk to the nature of service within our community, the importance of being resilient, and showcase the role which sport can play in supporting the recovery and rehabilitation of those who have been injured or become sick,” said Mr Kidd.
NSW Education Secretary Mark Scott AO said he was delighted to support the Games, which symbolises the courage and commitment of serving defence personnel. “This initiative is an opportunity for students to access real-world, connected learning materials that will be available online for all schools across Australia and around the world,” said Mr Scott.