Multiple schools and nurseries across Greater Manchester have announced early closures on Wednesday and Thursday as an extreme heatwave sweeps across the UK. Temperatures are expected to reach 32°C in Manchester, with the Met Office issuing a rare red extreme heat warning for parts of the country.
Schools Implementing Adapted Hours
Trafford Council confirmed that Blessed Thomas Holford Catholic College (BTHCC) will allow students to leave at lunchtime on both days, though the school will remain open for any children who wish to stay. Altrincham College will dismiss pupils at 1pm on Wednesday and Thursday, while Wellacre Academy in Flixton will close at 2pm on both days. Wellington School will close at 1.15pm on Wednesday and Thursday.
In Wythenshawe, Dixons Newell Green Academy announced early closures at 12.55pm on both days. A number of schools in Wigan are also adopting 'adapted hours', with a council spokesperson stating: "A number of local schools are taking measures during this heatwave, including adapted hours, and implementing optional early pick-ups to manage and keep pupils safe."
Nursery Closures
Eight nurseries under the Brighter Beginnings group, located in Burnage, Chadderton, Charlestown, Fallowfield, Fitton Hill, New Moston, Newton Heath, Rusholme and Wetherby Street, will close at 12pm on both days. In a message to parents, the group said: "We appreciate the decision may cause inconvenience and we have not taken it lightly. However, we believe it is the most responsible course of action given the circumstances and forecast temperatures over the next two days."
Guidance and Adaptations
Some schools have advised pupils to wear PE kit instead of full school uniform, which often includes long trousers and blazers. After-school clubs have also been cancelled in some cases. The Department for Education stated on its website: "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."
The red extreme heat warning, issued by the Met Office, highlights the severity of the conditions. This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
