Brendan Moy

Dr. Brendan Moy is an Associate Professor at the School of Exercise & Nutrition Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology (QUT). With over 37 years of practical teaching experience and a career spanning 24 years as a schoolteacher, Moy specializes in the constraints-led approach (CLA) to physical education, an innovative pedagogy grounded in contemporary motor learning theory. His work bridges research and teaching, aiming to reform physical education by developing graduates as agents of change.

• Qualifications: PhD (QUT, 2016), Master of Health Science (QUT, 2000), Graduate Diplomas in Teaching and Health Promotion, and a Bachelor of Human Movement Studies (University of Queensland, 1982).

Moy’s research focuses on challenging traditional physical education methods through CLA, which emphasizes individualized learning and ecological dynamics. He investigates how to shift pre-service teachers’ beliefs, support authentic CLA implementation during school practicums, and enhance student motivation and performance via evidence-based design. His work informs curriculum development at QUT, including units like XNB296 Physical Activity Learning Design and XNB399 Curriculum, Pedagogy and Assessment.

Recent publications highlight Moy’s contributions to creativity in rugby union pedagogy, volleyball skill acquisition, and the theoretical alignment of CLA with Teaching Games for Understanding (TGfU). His scholarship spans journal articles and book chapters, consistently advocating for student-centered, inclusive learning environments.

• Scientific Awards:
  • Vice-Chancellor’s Performance Fund Award (2015)
  • QUT Expert Peer Review of Educational Practice (2017)
  • Vice-Chancellor’s Awards for Excellence (2018 nomination)
  • ACHPER President’s Award (2019)
  • Senior Fellow of the UK Higher Education Academy (2020)
  • Citation for Outstanding Contribution to Student Learning (2022)

Moy’s teaching philosophy prioritizes engaging and authentic learning experiences, partnering with schools to develop real-world capabilities. He has coordinated numerous units at QUT and previously held leadership roles, including Sport, Health and Physical Education Discipline Lead (2013) and Health and Physical Education Coordinator (2012–present). His 24-year school teaching career included roles as Head of HPE Department and Sports Coordinator, delivering over 15,000 lessons in Health, Physical Education, and Science.