The UK is bracing for a heatwave this week, with temperatures forecast to reach up to 38C, raising questions about whether schools could be forced to close. The Met Office has issued a severe amber heat warning from Monday, June 22 through Thursday, June 25, with temperatures predicted to peak at 38C on Monday and Tuesday. Additional amber heat health alerts from the UK Health Security Agency cover most of England from Monday morning to Friday evening.
Why Heat Poses a Challenge in Schools
Educators, unions, schools, and parents have expressed concerns about classroom temperatures during increasingly sweltering summers. The heat can make concentration difficult, particularly for pupils with special educational needs or other conditions. Teachers also struggle in the heat, with a Deputy Head from a London secondary school telling the i newspaper: "During the hottest days, teachers can barely teach, let alone students learn. My staff say it's really hard to function properly."
Could Schools Be Forced to Shut?
No official school closures have been declared during June's heatwave. However, pressure is mounting on the Government to introduce regulations allowing closures when temperatures reach dangerous levels. The Climate Change Committee (CCC) and the Trades Union Congress (TUC) support calls for a maximum temperature limit in classrooms. The Department for Education (DfE) has confirmed it is "carefully considering" these proposals.
Current DfE guidelines state that schools should stay open during hot weather, arguing that regular attendance provides the best chance to learn and fulfil potential. Following a previous heatwave earlier this year, teaching unions reiterated calls for a legal maximum classroom temperature. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson did not dismiss the possibility, acknowledging that periods of extreme heat can create difficult conditions for teachers and staff, and may impact children's learning abilities.
Measures Schools Can Take to Keep Cool
Some schools have already implemented precautionary measures. Pupils are advised to bring refillable water bottles for regular hydration. Schools are also reminding students to bring hats for outdoor activities and apply sunscreen before school. One school in Wiltshire has relaxed its uniform policy, allowing pupils to wear standard uniform without jumper and tie, or opt for their PE kit. Whitchurch High School told WalesOnline it has "sensible arrangements in place to help students remain safe and comfortable."
