Sun wise at sunrise! : an investigative approach towards sun safety education in Maltese primary schools

Abstract

The World Health Organisation claims that 'excessive sun exposure in children and adolescents is likely to contribute to skin cancer' (WHO, 2009, para.1) later on in life. It adds that approximately 80% of a person's lifetime sun exposure occurs before the age of 18. In the document Sun Protection and Schools, this organisation states that schools are the ideal settings to teach the importance of sun safety. For the data collection, the researcher designed a quantitative study in which 100 questionnaires were devised and distributed to Year 3 teachers in state, church and private schools around Malta and Gozo. This questionnaire served to shed light on what is currently happening in our schools with regards to sun safety. Particular emphasis was given to the teachers' attitudes and behaviours towards sun safety, the curriculum, the school structures, school policies and practices. The findings of this study revealed that currently, sun safety is not amongst the priority issues in our schools. Apart from the fact that sun protection is integrated within the curriculum by most schools, this study also discovered that however schools are not equipped with sufficient shade structures. Furthermore, sun protection policies are rarely found in our schools. The findings of this study were then used to create a resource pack. This consists of a workbook which is in line with the Year 3 syllabus along with a brochure and six animated videos. The resource pack is aimed to promote sun protection practices among the school community; mainly targeting children.