SunSmart Policy

Adopted 17th June 2019
Reviewed on: 14 May 2025
Next review date: December 2028 (Reviewed triennially thereafter)

Policy Statement
KingsGate School’s SunSmart policy has been developed to ensure that all children and staff are protected from damaging levels of UVR (ultraviolet radiation) from the sun.

Rationale
Excessive exposure to UVR from the sun causes sunburn, skin damage and increases the risk of skin cancer. New Zealand, along with Australia, has the highest melanoma rates in the world. One or more episodes of sunburn in childhood and adolescence have been shown to increase the risk of melanoma later in life. This policy is explicitly followed during Terms 1 and 4. For most parts of New Zealand, this is between September and April, especially between 10 am and 4 pm. The Cancer Society recognises that a balance is required between avoiding an increase in the risk of skin cancer and ensuring children get enough sun exposure to maintain adequate vitamin D levels, particularly in the winter months. Between May and August, the UV index is 3 or below in most parts of New Zealand, especially in the south, so it is recommended that children do NOT wear hats, use sunscreen, or play in the shade during these months. During the winter months, encourage children to actively enjoy the sun.