Schools

Students are in school when ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels are at their peak. Schools are uniquely placed to provide a sunsafe environment, educate students about sun protection behaviour and reduce the risk of skin cancer by becoming SunSmart.

Being a SunSmart school shows that your school:

• is committed to protecting students, staff and parents from the risks of UV radiation
• is raising awareness about the importance of skin protection among parents and students
• promotes the school withing the community as one that is committed to the health of its students
• has a sun protection policy that follows the Cancer Society minimum criteria
• promotes and supports positive sun protection behaviours such as hat wearing
• is developing and maintaining a sunsafe environment.

A survey of primary and intermediate schools was carried out in 2005 to establish the level of sun protection policies and practices prior to the SSAP being launched as a National programme. Read the Are New Zealand Schools SunSmart report.