More than 850 schools across the UK are closed today (Wednesday) as a record-breaking heatwave sweeps the country, with temperatures expected to hit 40C in parts of England and Wales. The Met Office has issued a rare red extreme heat warning as a 'heat-dome' settles over western Europe.
Widespread Closures and Early Finishes
According to the Mirror, more than 850 schools have announced either full or partial closures for today. Many schools are closing after lunchtime, while others have shifted to online learning. Some schools, like the Dixons Newell Green Academy in Wythenshawe, are closing early on both Wednesday and Thursday, with parents notified via messages seen by the M.E.N. that the school will close at 12.55pm.
To cope with the heat, some schools are allowing pupils to wear PE kit instead of full uniform, which often includes long trousers and blazers. After-school clubs have also been cancelled in many areas.
London Schools Hit Hard
In London, numerous schools have confirmed closures or early finishes. All Saints Benhilton Primary School is asking parents to pick up at 1.30pm all week. Archbishop Tenison's Church of England High School is closing at 12.45pm on Wednesday and Thursday. Other schools like Cardinal Pole Catholic School, Cheam High School, and Hampstead School are also implementing early dismissals or full closures. Simon Marks Jewish Primary School and Wentworth Nursery School are closed entirely on Wednesday and Thursday.
Closures Across the South West
In Cornwall, Launceston College, North Cornwall AP Academy, and several primary schools are closed all day or closing early. Torpoint Community College closes at 12.30pm, while Trekenner Primary School and Werrington Primary School also have early finishes.
Devon has seen a long list of closures, including Atlantic Academy, Bideford College, and Tiverton High School. Many primary schools such as Burlescombe C of E Primary School and Clyst St Mary Primary School are also shut.
Somerset has the most extensive list, with over 100 schools closed or partially closed. These include Tor School, Monkton Wood Academy, King Arthur's School, and numerous primary and special schools. Bristol schools like Ashton Gate Primary, Badminton School, and Cotham School are closed on Wednesday and Thursday.
Hampshire and Buckinghamshire Affected
In Hampshire, Crestwood Community School, Swanmore College, and Peter Symonds College are among those closing early or fully. Many schools are implementing compressed days or optional early pickups.
Buckinghamshire has seen closures at Gerrards Cross School, Chalfonts Community College, and The Misbourne School, with many others offering optional early pickups from midday.
Wales Also Impacted
In Wales, schools such as Llanwern High School, Cardiff High School, and Newport High School are closed on Wednesday and Thursday. Several primary schools in the region are also shut.
The Met Office has warned that the extreme heat could pose a risk to health, particularly for vulnerable groups. Parents are advised to check with their children's schools for specific arrangements.
