Some schools across England have already announced early closures this week as weather and health alerts are issued due to extreme heat. Temperatures could rise to 40°C, with rare red 'extreme heat' warnings in place for parts of the Midlands and southern England on Wednesday and Thursday.
Red Health Warnings Issued
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued a red health warning for six regions of England – the West Midlands, East Midlands, South East, South West, London, and east of England – from 1am on Wednesday until 11pm on Thursday. This alert indicates “a risk to life for even the healthy population,” according to the Met Office. The hot conditions, accompanied by high humidity and very warm nights, will make it difficult for people to recover overnight.
Schools Take Precautionary Measures
The extreme temperatures have raised fears that schools may need to shut their doors due to the impact on pupils and staff. The National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT) has written to all its members with guidance on dealing with the weather. Paul Whiteman, NAHT general secretary, said: “While there is no legal ‘upper limit’ for temperature in schools, (school leaders) will certainly be doing all they can to mitigate the effects of such high temperatures.” He added that adjustments such as limiting sun exposure, providing extra water, relaxing uniform rules, and ventilating classrooms are being implemented.
Whiteman also urged the government to act: “If, as it appears, warmer summers are going to become the norm, then government really does need to act more urgently to improve and modernise school buildings, including a focus on ventilation and potentially air conditioning. School buildings need to be conducive to learning all year round.”
Confirmed Early Closures
According to the BBC, several schools in southern England have confirmed early closures this week. Kingdown School, Clarendon Academy, Pewsey Vale School, and Dilton Marsh Primary in Wiltshire will finish teaching at 12.30pm. Kingsholm Primary in Gloucester will close at 1.30pm every day until Thursday, with pupils advised to wear their PE kits to class.
