Hundreds of schools across the UK have closed as a red weather warning for extreme heat is due to come into force on Wednesday, with temperatures potentially reaching 40C. The Met Office has issued the warning, covering large parts of England, while other areas are under an amber warning already in place.
Record Temperatures Expected
Temperatures could rise to up to 40C this week, with many schools deciding to close or switch to online learning. Multiple records could be broken, including the highest temperature ever recorded in the UK – 40.3C in July 2022 at Coningsby in Lincolnshire, according to the Met Office.
Some schools have moved teaching online, while others have chosen to run in the morning and finish by lunchtime. Working parents are entitled to up to four weeks' unpaid parental leave every year, which could be used in the event of sudden school closures.
Transport Disruption
Transport will also be severely disrupted on Wednesday and Thursday, as National Rail has advised people to "only travel if absolutely necessary" on these two days. The extreme heat is expected to cause delays and cancellations across the network.
Regional School Closures
Oxfordshire
Numerous schools in Oxfordshire have announced closures from Tuesday onwards, including All Saints Church of England Primary School, Didcot Girls' School, and Europa School UK. Many will close from midday or early afternoon on Tuesday and remain shut through Thursday.
Berkshire
In Berkshire, schools such as Aldermaston Church of England Primary School, Denefield School, and Kennet School have either closed or introduced optional early pick-up times. Some schools are closed on Wednesday and Thursday only.
Buckinghamshire
Buckinghamshire schools including Gerrards Cross School, Chalfonts Community College, and The Misbourne School have closed from Tuesday. Many others have introduced early pick-up options or partial closures.
Hampshire
In Hampshire, schools like Crestwood Community School, Swanmore College, and Testbourne Community School have closed from Tuesday. Some schools remain open with optional early pick-up.
Bristol
Bristol schools including Ashton Gate Primary School, Bristol Cathedral Choir School, and Cotham School are closed on Wednesday and Thursday. Some closed from Tuesday afternoon.
London
London schools such as Sydenham School, Cheam High School, and Fielding Primary School have closed from Tuesday. Many are implementing compressed school days or early closures.
Parents are advised to check with their local schools for specific closure information and alternative arrangements.
