Middle years students, in Years 5–9, live in unprecedented times. Their digital and physical lives are increasingly inseparable. They are growing up in a complex world shaped by rapidly changing technology, social pressures and emerging health risks. For young people, parents, teachers and schools, it can be difficult to keep pace. As a result, teaching health education in the middle years can feel daunting. A contemporary middle years health curriculum needs to build students’ knowledge of a range of health issues. However, knowledge alone is not enough. Young people also need opportunities to develop transformative skills. These skills can help them recognise, assess and respond to the complex hazards and risks they and their peers face.