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Primary schools in Trafford are being invited to sign up to a free Sun Safe Schools programme – helping pupils stay safe in the sun and cutting their future risk of skin cancer.

The call comes from the NHS Greater Manchester Cancer Alliance, which has teamed up with national skin cancer charity to encourage schools to gain the Sun Safe Schools accreditation in time for the warmer months.

Children spend nearly half of their childhood in school – and around eight hours a week outdoors. Without proper protection like shade, sunscreen and sun-safe habits, young skin can burn easily, potentially increasing the risk of skin cancer later in life.

January is the perfect time to get started, so schools are ready well before summer arrives.

How it works

The Sun Safe Schools accreditation is simple and completely free. Schools just need to:

  • create a sun protection policy
  • work with parents
  • hold a whole-school assembly
  • deliver fun, age-appropriate classroom lessons


Dr Stephanie Ogden, Consultant Dermatologist and Skin Cancer Clinical Lead for Greater Manchester Cancer Alliance, said:

“The Sun Safe Schools programme gives schools everything they need – completely free – to put good sun safety policies in place.

“It helps schools meet government guidance while spreading the message about the importance of staying safe in the sun across the whole school community.”

Why it matters

Marie Tudor, Skcin Chief Executive, said education is key.

She said: “Around 90% of skin cancer cases are preventable. Most are caused by over-exposure to UV.

“Our Sun Safe Schools programme has already reached over 10,000 education settings and 1.5 million children across the UK. We’re proud to be working with Greater Manchester Cancer Alliance to get even more schools involved.”

Ready to join?
Sun Safe Schools provides free lesson plans, assemblies, policies and guidance as part of the PHSE curriculum, helping schools show their commitment to:

  • Protection – creating a sun-safe environment
  • Education – teaching children how to stay safe
  • Collaboration – working with parents and the wider community

Schools can sign up now at: www.sunsafeschools.co.uk

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