How to become a SunSmart School
The HSE’s National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP), in partnership with Healthy Ireland, is encouraging schools nationwide to remind children, parents and teachers of the importance of protecting skin while enjoying time outdoors in the sun.
To support this, a range of SunSmart lesson plans and activity sheets have been developed for SPHE (Safety and Protection). These resources offer practical ideas and ready-to-use materials to help teachers integrate sun protection education and positive behaviours into the classroom.
Available resources include:
- SunSmart Primary School Lesson Plans - Junior infants to second class
- SunSmart Primary School Lesson Plans - Third to sixth class
All resources are available to download or order from www.healthpromotion.ie.
SunSmart activities are also included in the HSE’s Making Healthy Choices 2 lesson plans, which support the Junior Cycle SPHE specification and further promote sun safety education at post-primary level.
In addition, the SunSmart School Toolkit for Primary and Post-Primary Schools has been launched. This toolkit provides schools with guidance, information and supports to help them become a recognised SunSmart School. By completing a number of simple steps, schools can apply for accreditation from the HSE’s NCCP. The toolkit is available in both English and Irish and can be downloaded or ordered from healthpromotion.ie.
The HSE’s National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) and Healthy Ireland are planning a webinar for primary and post-primary school teachers on How to become a SunSmart School.
