PURPOSE
To appropriately manage the risk to students and staff or sun exposure.
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RATIONALE
Everyone has a responsibility and a role to play in protecting themselves and each other from the dangers of exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Australia has the highest incidence of skin cancer in the world. Two out of three Australians develop some form of skin cancer before the age of 70. Skin damage, including skin cancer, is the result of cumulative exposure to the sun. Much of the damage occurs during childhood and adolescence. Research suggests that severe sunburn is a contributor to skin cancer and other forms of skin damage such as wrinkles, sunspots, blemishes and premature ageing. Most skin damage and skin cancer is, therefore, preventable.
Sutton Public School can help reduce the incidence of skin cancer and the number of related deaths by encouraging all members of the school community to take effective skin-protection measures. _________________________________________________________________________________________
STRATEGIES
Outdoor Activities
· Teachers will endeavour to schedule outdoor activities outside of peak UV radiation times where possible at least from August to May.
Shade
· Students are reminded and encouraged to seek shade during peak UV radiation times.
· Shade is available where students congregate outside during recess and lunch times.
· Outdoor venues that have shaded areas are chosen when available
· Seating is available in shaded areas.
Clothing and uniform, including hats
· Hats that protect the head, neck and ears are part of the school sports uniform.
· Children will wear sun-safe hats to protect the face, neck and ears whenever they are outside such as during recess, lunch, sport, excursions and sports carnivals.
· The NO HAT, PLAY IN THE SHADE rule will be enforced. Children without hats play in the designated area eg the silver seats in the shade of the elm trees.
· Wearing swim shirts during all water based activities is encouraged.
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Curriculum
· Sun safety education is incorporated into teaching and learning activities as outlined by the PDHPE K-6 syllabus
· A variety of sun safety resources are utilised to promote consistent sun safety messages.
Community Engagement
Reminders are provided to the school community that appropriate sun safety measures are required for all student activities in unshaded areas.
· All school staff model sun safe behaviours
The school will promote and reinforce the Sun Smart Policy in a positive way through newsletters, assembly awards & K-2 hat awards, parent meetings and student/teacher activities & bell time reminders.
· The wearing of sun safe hats during outdoor activities is mandated by the school with support from the school community including students, staff and families.
Sunscreen
· Parents are encouraged to have their children apply sunscreen before school occurs regularly
· Students are encouraged to bring their own sunscreen from home and reapply themselves.
· SPF 30+ (or higher) broad spectrum and water resistant sunscreen is available for students during specific events eg excursions, sporting events.
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Heat wave conditions
A heat wave is a period of unusual and uncomfortable hot weather for three or more days in a row.. If extreme weather is forecast, the school will consider the potential impacts on planned school activities, especially those occurring outdoors.
Precautions will be taken to reduce the risk of heat-related illness for students and staff, including:
• Holding classes in our air-conditioned facilities
• Varying normal teaching programs through the use of shady and cool outdoor facilities
• Encouraging students and staff to drink water and allowing drink bottles in the classroom
• Keeping blinds or curtains drawn and/or using fans or other devices in an appropriate way to remain cool
• Provide inside options for play time during recess and lunch time for all students
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EVALUATION
Monitor and evaluate the implementation of the Sun Smart Policy.
· Monitor & record the skin protective behaviour of the school community, the use of hats/clothing, sunscreen & shade, for example.
· Analyse the scheduling of outdoor activities
· Review the policy 30th January 2023