Care in the Sun Policy

Rationale
Research has shown that too much sun can cause skin damage including sunburn, premature aging and skin cancer.
A simple sunburn in childhood can lead to long-term skin damage and may increase the risk of melanoma in later life

Aims

• To raise awareness among children of the dangers of excessive sun exposure.
• To create a suitable environment with adequate shade and protection

.In the writing of this policy, cognisance has been taken of the NEELB guidelines, advice from the DHSS and recommendations from DENI.
This policy forms part of the school’s Health Education policy.

• Sun awareness and sun safety issues will be addressed in the appropriate curriculum areas, particularly Science, Health and PE.
• We will address the issue of using clothing as protection: PE kit for outdoor activities, collared t-shirts, appropriate hats etc.
• We will encourage children to use shaded areas of the playground during break and lunch times: trees, walls, buildings, garden structures and we will consider such issues in the development of the school grounds.
• We will take appropriate precautions for all activities such as Sports Day, After-school sports and clubs, school outings and trips.
• We permit and indeed encourage the use of sunscreens in school and will endeavour to ensure that they are used correctly.

Staff
Teachers and supervisors will be familiar with these guidelines and will ensure that they are correctly implemented.
Staff will follow protection procedures and will act as role models.
We will endeavour to convey a positive message so that children can enjoy outdoor safety by being “sunwise”.

This policy will be monitored, reviewed and amended regularly and as required.
It has been endorsed and accepted by the Board of Governors.

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