Bad Weather
There are times in the year when severe weather may impact on our capacity to remain open. The school will only be closed as a last resort, eg. travelling becomes hazardous, or if the site is not safe for students and staff. The website will be updated and parents/carers informed, if this is the case.
Heatwave Plan
Whilst we recognise that some sun is good for us, over-exposure to Ultraviolet Radiation (UVR) is an important issue.
During the warmer months of the year, children are exposed to UVR from the sun, often when penetration is strongest (between 11.00am and 3.00pm). Without adequate protection, a child’s delicate skin can easily burn, causing cumulative and irreparable damage. This can significantly increase their risk of developing skin cancer in later life. This information highlights the importance of schools and parents working together to ensure children are protected against UVR and learn how to enjoy the sun safely.
Clothing and Sunhats
Clothing is one of the most effective barriers between our skin and the sun and should always be considered the first line of defence against UV exposure. Ideally clothing should cover as much skin as possible. For Early Years and Primary pupils, sun hats are to be provided by parents and should be:
- Either broad-brimmed, bucket style or legionnaire to adequately shade the face, neck, ears and cheeks.
- Baseball caps are not recommended because they do not provide shade to the neck, ears or cheeks. Whilst we do not recommend baseball caps, they are still better than no hat at all. However extra care should be taken to protect the neck, ears, and cheeks with sunscreen, as these areas can easily burn.
Sunscreen
Sunscreen should be applied to areas of exposed skin that are not covered by clothing to protect it from Ultraviolet Radiation. This should be applied before the start of the school day. Parents should provide sunscreen to be brought to school to be self-administered by pupils.
Hydration
We are committed to ensuring students are kept hydrated with water, available and encouraged regularly throughout the day, especially during warmer weather and physical activity. However, please provide your child with a water bottle to reduce wastage of cups etc.
Hay Fever
Please ensure that if your child has hay fever, they have taken their medication before coming to school.
School Obligations
- We monitor and limit the time pupils spend outdoors when UV levels are high, particularly during peak UV hours between 11.00am and 3.00pm.
- We currently provide shaded areas outdoors where children can congregate for outdoor breaks and activities.
- We ensure all staff role model good sun safety behaviours such as applying sunscreen and wearing a sun hat when UV levels reach 3 or above.