SUNSMART

Primary Settings - SunSmart

Welcome and thanks for taking an interest in being Sunsmart at your School. Have a look over this information and see how the Cancer Society together with your WAVE Facilitator can support you in further developing your sunsmart practices to protect the health and well being of your student.

It’s important to note that sun protection is required from October to March inclusive (terms 1 & 4). This is when the ultra violet radiation (UVR) is at its most intense. There are also benefits from sun exposure, including vitamin D absorption, which is important for the development of healthy bones, muscles and teeth. During the winter, children should be encouraged to actively enjoy the sun.  

Background

Skin cancers are the most common form of cancers in New Zealand with The NZ mortality rate from skin cancer among the highest in the world. It is widely recognised that skin cancer prevention requires a focus on both environmental and individual behaviour change in order to reduce harmful exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR)*, with the need for increased focus on sun protective policies that also involve shade provision and reinforcement through the curriculum.

Why target children?

There is strong evidence that excessive exposure to UVR during childhood and adolescence is a risk factor for developing skin cancer later in life. It is also estimated that the majority of a person’s lifetime UV exposure occurs during childhood. Episodes of sunburn, particularly in childhood and adolescence, also increase the risk of melanoma. Children therefore represent an at risk group. Limiting UV exposure during these years could reduce incidence of these cancers in later life. An emphasis on sun protection and skin cancer prevention in Primary Schools is important for two reasons:

1. These are places where students spend much of their time
2. These also provide opportunities through professional development for both staff and students to learn about appropriate strategies for sun protection

Given the strength of evidence linking melanoma to sunburn during childhood and adolescence, effective sun protection needs to begin early in life.

Statistics:

• Between 250 and 300 New Zealanders are dying from skin cancer every year - Skin cancer is by far the most common cancer affecting New Zealanders.
• NZ has one of the highest melanoma death rates in the world. The most recent statistics 2004, 1896 new registrations, 249  deaths from melanoma, 105 other malignant skin neoplasms.
• Skin cancer costs the New Zealand health system about $33 million a year, making skin cancer one of the most expensive cancers for the NZ health system.
• The vast majority of skin cancers are preventable - it has been estimated that over 90% of melanomas in Australasia are attributable to sunlight exposure.
• Exposure before the age of 20 years is a particularly strong risk factor for melanoma incidence.

Whats available locally to help your setting be SunSmart?

Become a Sunsmart Accredited School!

SunSmart Schools Accreditation Programme (SSAP) provides accreditation for New Zealand schools that have developed and implemented a sun protection policy for Terms 1 and 4, that meets the Cancer Society of New Zealand's minimum criteria.

The accreditation process recognises the efforts a school is making to implement a comprehensive sun protection policy. For many families, sun protection is an important component when selecting a school that ensures their children's general safety.

The World Health Organization recommends the SSAP as the "Gold standard" schools' sun protection programme. It has been implemented in Australian schools for a number of years and proven to be successful. The Cancer Society is promoting the SSAP to all primary and intermediate schools throughout New Zealand.

Why should our school apply?

• You will be implementing a comprehensive sun protection policy or procedure that will reduce the exposure of your students and staff to the harmful effects of UV radiation.
• Becoming a SunSmart Accredited School shows your community you have a commitment to the present and future health of your students.
• You will receive a SunSmart School Certificate, a metal sign for your gate and two free shade trees!
• You will receive a sample media release to send to your local newspaper.
• Schools that are not initially successful will be offered further assistance to help them meet the SunSmart Schools Accreditation criteria -  you may already be half way there!

How do I apply?

Go to www.sunsmartschools.co.nz
It only takes 15 minutes!

Either submit your policy and application form online, or download the printable application form available on the website. Attach your current sun protection policy or procedures and send to the Cancer Society by either email or post- it's easy!

This website is also a one stop shop for everything a primary school needs around sun protection - Check it out!

• Curriculum resources for years 1-8
• Information for teachers, parents and children
• Parent information sheet for newsletters
• Sample sun protection policies
• Endorsement letters for funding of hats, shade etc
• Sunsmart certificates to reward good behaviour
• Guidelines for shade planning and design
• Hat guidelines and much more......

www.cancernz.org.nz

• Any information you want on alls aspects of sking cancer and sun protection including information sheets covering;  Skin cancers, Sunscreen, Sun Protection, General information, Statistics  and much more ...... 

• Information on Skin cancer - the disease
• Shade
• Skin cancer control in NZ
• Information on the Ultraviolet Index and the ozone layer
• Hat guidelines and sun protective clothing information

• Have some fun with Cody- the Sunsmart Turtle! Suitable for Yrs 1 & 2

Shade Tent Loan Scheme

Free loan of shade structures to be used for outdoor events held during Terms 1 & 4. Any bookings are taken at Cancer Society office (03) 688 0124. Information on running a SunSmart event is also provided. You are responsible for pick up and drop off.

'Never let your child get sunburnt'
Poster

 
Sunsmart Stickers
Audience 1-8years

(Charge may apply)

 
Sunsmart Tattoos
Audience 1-8years

(Charge may apply)

Your local Cancer Society Health Promoter:  

Kate Johnson
32 Memorial Avenue
Timaru

Ph: 03 688 0124
Fax: 03 684 6314

Email: kate@canty.cancernz.org.nz