Hundreds of schools across the UK have closed due to extreme heat, with Met Office amber and red weather warnings in place and temperatures reaching up to 40°C in some regions. However, the Department for Education advises that if schools remain open, parents should send their children as normal.
Government Guidance on Attendance
The government website states: "During hot weather, we don’t normally advise schools to close. This is because school attendance is the best way for pupils to learn and reach their potential, and hot weather can usually be managed safely." School leaders are expected to take necessary steps to ensure children's safety and comfort, guided by heat-health alerts.
There is no legal maximum temperature that forces schools to close. The focus remains on attendance. Parents who keep children at home without a valid reason risk unauthorised absences, which could lead to fines.
School Adaptations for Hot Weather
Schools are encouraged to make adaptations such as relaxing uniform rules, allowing PE kits, and cancelling outdoor activities. The government advises children to wear loose, light-coloured clothing, use sunscreen, and stay in the shade. Vigorous physical activity should be avoided on very hot days, with sedentary lessons preferred.
The Department of Health and Social Care recommends that children should not take part in strenuous exercise during extreme heat.
Weather Forecast
Temperatures remain high in the north west, with a "hot day" expected on Wednesday reaching 32°C, followed by an "even hotter" Thursday with highs of 34°C. The Met Office warns of warm, muggy nights and high humidity.
In summary, while parents may be concerned, the official advice is to send children to school if it is open. Schools are expected to implement safety measures to protect pupils during the heatwave.
