Sun-Smart Policy

Rationale

This policy is adopted to ensure that all children attending St Francis Xavier's are protected from skin and eye damage caused by the harmful ultra-violet rays of the sun. 

Implementation

Throughout the year with particular emphasis in Terms 1 (Jan-April) & Term 4 (Oct-Dec).

As part of general Sun-Smart strategies:

• Advise that hats worn are appropriate and satisfy Anti-Cancer Council of Victoria guidelines; ie those that protect face, neck and ears eg; legionnaires hat, broad-brimmed hat.
• Children are required to bring their hat every day of the school year.  Children without a hat will be required to remain in a shaded environment.
• Children will be encouraged to wear sanctioned school sunglasses when outdoors to protect eyes from sun damage.
• Staff and parents are encouraged to act as role models by:  wearing appropriate hats and clothing;  using SPF 30+ sunscreen for skin protection; and seeking shade whenever possible.
• Request staff and students bring their own SPF30+ sunscreen.   Children to be encouraged to apply sunscreen prior to arriving at school and to reapply sunscreen for afternoon activities.
• Ensure there are sufficient shelters and trees in the school grounds that provide permanent shade all year round.
• Ensure sufficient shade is provided at all outdoor events (sporting carnivals, games days, etc) via the use of sails, tents, canopies, umbrellas, trees, gazeboes etc.
• Ensure that outdoor activities (especially terms 1 & 4) be conducted where possible prior to 11am (daylight saving time).  When activities are scheduled outdoors after 11am a shady environment will be utilised where possible.

Learning about the skin and ways to protect skin from the sun and its harmful effects (eg  skin cancer) will be incorporated into the curriculum at all grade levels and be regularly reinforced in a positive way by posters, newsletters and teacher and student activities.