Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has urged parents to continue sending their children to school if it remains open, as over 1,000 schools across England and Wales close or partially close due to a rare red heat warning. Temperatures are forecast to reach 40°C in some regions on Wednesday and Thursday, prompting hundreds of schools to shut completely, send children home early, or relax uniform rules.
Government Advice on School Attendance
Phillipson stated: "I know hot weather can be a struggle. But my message to families is simple: if your child's school is open, you should keep sending them into school." She emphasized that teachers are taking measures such as relaxing uniform rules, keeping classrooms cool, ensuring hydration, teaching water safety, and avoiding vigorous activity on the hottest days. She added: "Every day of absence and lesson missed has a cost – and that cost falls hardest on our most disadvantaged pupils and working class communities."
The government website advises that schools are not normally advised to close during hot weather, as attendance is key for learning and potential. It states: "School leaders should make sure they take any steps necessary to make sure children are safe and comfortable." There is no maximum temperature that enforces school closures.
Local Authority Responses
Liverpool City Council noted that closure decisions are made by individual schools, which communicate directly with parents. The Met Office has extended its amber weather warning to Friday and Saturday, with the last hot day forecast for June 27. Temperatures are expected to cool into the early 20s next week.
