Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, and statistics show that Melanoma is the most common cancer affecting young Australians aged 15 to 24. (Cancer Institute NSW, 2020) The good news is that skin cancer is highly preventable.

It is now time to be SunSmart- beginning of September to the end of April!

In Tasmania average peak UV levels reach 3 and above from September to April, which means that all staff and students need to be using the following sun protection.

Slip on a shirt - dress your child in clothing that covers as much skin as possible (e.g. elbow length tops with a higher neckline or collar and longer style shorts or skirts). Densely woven fabrics are best.

Slop on SPF 30 (or higher) broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen – apply a generous amount of sunscreen at the start of the day and provide permission for sunscreen to be reapplied to your child before they go outdoors. This should be applied every two hours.

Slap on a hat – one that protects the face, neck and ears such as a broad brimmed, legionnaire or bucket style hat. Peak caps do not offer enough protection and are not recommended by SunSmart.

Seek shade – choose shady spots for play whenever possible.

Slide on some sunglasses - if practical and approved by the service. Make sure they are labelled AS 1067 and cover as much of the eye area as possible.

In line with Cancer Council advice and Department of Education policy, it will be compulsory for students to wear their approved (bucket- style) sun hat from the beginning of September- end of April. Parents can help by reminding your child to bring and wear their approved sun hat every day.  If your child needs a new school sunhat, you can purchase one from the office for $8.50 and are available in M/L and L/XL sizes. All staff are expected to model good practice and bring their hats to school each day from the beginning of September too!