Deputy News
SunSafety at School
At St Joseph’s, we take our SunSmart Policy seriously and are committed to protecting our students from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Schools play an important role in establishing positive sun protection habits from an early age, helping children understand why sun safety matters and how they can take responsibility for their own wellbeing.
"Exposure to the sun’s UV radiation is the main cause of skin cancer, and overexposure during childhood and adolescence significantly increases the risk of developing skin cancer later in life. Skin cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, making sun protection an important part of keeping our children safe and healthy. As UV radiation cannot be seen or felt, it is possible to receive harmful exposure even on cool or cloudy day.
In Victoria, UV levels are particularly important to monitor from mid-August through to the end of April, when sun protection is especially necessary during school hours."
Our SunSmart Policy outlines the measures we take to minimise students’ exposure to UV radiation throughout the school day. A key part of this is our “No Hat, No Play” approach to outdoor activities. Students are expected to wear their school sun hat when outdoors during recess, lunch and PE lessons. Both the legionnaire hat and bucket hat are acceptable to wear. Students who do not have a suitable hat are required to remain in under the tree during outdoor play.
Sunscreen is another important part of our sun protection practices. Students have access to sunscreen in their classrooms and receive frequent reminders to reapply it throughout the school day. We ask that all students arrive at school with sunscreen already applied so they are protected from the beginning of the day.
Sun safety education is also embedded in our school curriculum through explicit lessons. These lessons help students develop an understanding of the importance of protecting their skin and eyes, and the everyday choices they can make to reduce their UV exposure. By teaching students about sun safety as well as putting protective measures in place, we aim to develop habits that will continue to benefit them well beyond their primary school years.
We appreciate that following these expectations requires a partnership between school and home and thank you for your continued support in helping St Joseph’s maintain a strong SunSmart culture and keep our students safe in the sun.
Families can read more about the SunSmart Policies on the official website.
Alannah Harrison & Luke Daffy
Deputy Principals