Protecting Against the Sun

Queensland state school students are protected from our harsh sun by the Department’s Developing a Sun Safety Strategy policy.

This policy requires that all schools provide an SPF 30+ broad spectrum waterproof sunscreen to students for outdoor activities and ensure they are wearing protective clothing. It also requires schools to develop educational programs on sun safety.

Schools develop sun safety strategies in consultation with their school community, and parents are encouraged to support the strategy by providing their children with appropriate protective clothing, including hats, sunglasses and swim shirts for water-based activities. Under the Department’s policy, swim shirts must be worn by Prep to Year 7 students during all water-based activities except during races at school swimming carnivals.

The Queensland Cancer Council’s website has plenty of tips for parents on reducing the risk of over-exposure to the sun. Visit their site at: http://www.cancerqld.org.au/reduce_risk