RATIONALE:
A major cause of melanoma is over-exposure to the sun’s ulta-violet radiation during childhood and adolescence. It is important that our school community takes a role, helping children to protect themselves from ultra-violet radiation and teaching the implications of exposure.
- PURPOSES:To increase the children’s and the community’s awareness of skin protection and melanoma.
- To work towards the development of a safe school environment, providing shade for children and staff.
- To have children and staff wear protective clothing and hats outdoors at appropriate times and to use sunscreen.
- To develop strategies which encourage responsible decision-making about skin care.
GUIDELINES:
- The school will communicate to parents through newsletters, the website and parent meetings the need to provide appropriate clothing, hats and sunscreen for their children.
- Sun care will be taught regularly as part of the school curriculum.
- The development of shade will be an objective of the school’s Property Committee.
- All children are required to purchase a school sun hat. These will be worn at school during Terms 1 and 4 at all outdoor activities.
- Purchased hats will be kept at school.
- Parents will be encouraged to supply their children with sun block to use as necessary.
- Staff will set an example by modeling appropriate “sun smart” behaviour at all times.
- “Education Outside the Classroom” activities are to be conducted, whenever practicable, in the early part of the day during the high risk months.
- Children will be introduced to a range of alternative sun care options - for example, playing in the shade and fostering personal responsibility.
Self Review:
- This policy will be reviewed in accordance with the Board’s annual programme of self review
- The Board process will involve consultation with senior management and school staff.
- The review policy will be made available to members of the school community once ratified by the school Board
Chairman signature _____________________________
Date: _______________
Next Review: 2009