Uniform recommendations
SunSmart recommends that school uniform/dress code policies include the following minimum standards.
1. Clothing to cover as much of the students' skin as practicable
Summer uniform/dress codes could include:
- a shirt with at least elbow-length sleeves (although 3/4 length sleeves provide better protection from the sun)
- a collar that sits close to the neck, above the collarbone. Scoop necks, v-necks or any other necklines below the collarbone are not recommended
- longer style skirts/shorts/pants at least to the knee (although 3/4 length shorts/pants provide better protection from the sun).
Sports uniform/dress codes where the need for sun protection must be balanced with the practicalities of playing sport could include:
- a shirt that covers the shoulders well; tanks tops are not recommended
- a collar that sits close to the neck, above the collarbone; scoop necks, v-necks or any other necklines below the collarbone are not recommended
- longer style skirts/shorts/pants at least to the mid-thigh (although knee-length skirts/shorts/pants provide better protection from the sun)
- rash vests or t-shirts for outdoor swimming.
2. A sun protective hat to be worn outdoors from September to April
Choose one of the following styles:
- broad brimmed hats – with a brim of at least 7.5 cm
- bucket or ‘surfie-style hats' – with a deep crown and brim of at least 6 cm
- legionnaire hats with a flap that covers the neck. The side flap and front peak should meet to protect the side of the face.
Baseball caps are not recommended; however schools may consider caps as part of their sports uniform where a sun protective hat may restrict vision or be unsafe for particular sports.
Also refer to:
- Create your own SunSmart poster
- Generation SunSmart: online sun protection learning modules
- Teaching and learning activities (VELS levels 1–4)
- Lesson ideas for secondary students
