This research examines potential barriers to learning Personal Development, Health and Physical Education in schools characterised by religious diversity. Year 9 students at four high schools were surveyed. Participants completed a self report instrument designed to reflect key components of the PDHPE curriculum. Although most respondents valued the PDHPE program, there were a number of important differences in attitudes between the Muslim and the Catholic groups. More of the Muslim group were concerned that cultural values made it difficult to engage in PDHPE related activities than the Catholic group. Up to 40 per cent of Muslim students have problems with issues such as dress, public display, independence and cultural values and the PDHPE program. Fewer Muslim students were in favour of mixed-sex activities and fewer Muslim students appeared to value and like the PDHPE program. These differences may act as barriers to the successful teaching and learning of PDHPE in these schools.
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