Beings Sun Smart – Learn & Create
What is a sun smart school in NZ?
Did you know there are about 500 Sun Smart schools in Ashburton? Well St Joseph’s is one of them, in Aotearoa.
St Joseph’s is well known, where shade is an excellent option for sun protection. Having shade around the school is good, because students can use it for several purposes; including Education Outside, Kapa Haka, eating lunches and also just for sitting down and chill.
Why is it important for schools in NZ to teach students how to be Sun smart?
It is important to teach students to be sun smart because the sun’s UV ( ultraviolet ) radiation is the cause of skin cancer, and the UV damage also causes Sunburn, tanning, premature ageing and eye damage.
But the good new are that all UV damage can be avoided if you are sun smart
How many schools in NZ are sun smart?
In Aotearoa, there are about 500 Sun smart schools.
What behavior are sun smart schools trying to teach their students?
Sun Smart schools are teaching their students to use sun hats, ( bucket hats, Broad-Brimmed ). To use broad-spectrum 30+ sunscreen
What must a sun smart school address to be accredited as a sun smart school?
- Behavior – Use sun hats , clothing, broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen
- Environment – Working towards providing shade and encouraging its use
- Curriculum – Education students about UV and sun protection
- Review – The schools sun protection policy is reviewed at least every three years.
Slip, Slop , Slap and Wrap guidelines, what are these guidelines?
– Slip into shade – Find a nice shady tree or a shade sail to slip into. Shade is one of the best and easiest ways to protect ourselves against UV radiation.
– Slip on clothing that covers your skin – A shirt long sleeves is ideal
– Slap on a hat – Wide brimmed hats protect the face, neck and ears.
– Slop on some sunscreen – Remember to apply 20 minutes before you go outdoors and reapply every two hours, or after swimming or sweating.
Wrap on sunglasses – Sunglasses can protect you from UV radiation
Further reading; What are shade structures in schools?
Shade structures are used for school playgrounds or sitting areas.
The best shade structures materials are PVC and vinyl both work well for shades. As an option to wood that resists rot, mould, and stains, these materials have been gaining popularity.
The availability of wood grain and textured finishes has increased, making them a more relaxed option for classic wooden shades.