Schools across England may be forced to close for up to two days this week as temperatures are expected to soar to 40°C, prompting rare red extreme heat alerts from the Met Office and health warnings from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). The National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT) has issued guidance to its members on how to handle the extreme conditions, including the possibility of shutting schools.
Red Alerts Issued for Widespread Areas
The Met Office has issued a rare red 'risk to life' alert that will be in effect from 9am on Wednesday, June 24, until 9pm on Thursday, June 25. This alert covers parts of the West Midlands, Wales, south west England, London, south east England, the East of England, and the East Midlands. An amber alert is also in place across large parts of the UK, including Greater Manchester, the Midlands, and Wales.
In addition, the UKHSA has issued red heat-health alerts for Wednesday and Thursday across the East of England, East Midlands, London, South East, South West, and West Midlands. An amber heat-health alert affects the North East, North West, and Yorkshire and The Humber.
NAHT Guidance for School Leaders
The NAHT, which represents leaders in most schools in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, has written to all its members with advice on dealing with the heat. The guidance covers the impact on pupils and staff, legal positions, and when to consider closure. 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: “For most, this will mean making straightforward adjustments such as limiting the time spent in the sun during breaks, ensuring additional water is available, making adjustments to uniform expectations where appropriate, and ventilating classrooms as best they can. 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.”
Health Risks and Safety Advice
Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, stressed the seriousness of the situation: “Very hot weather is forecast across large parts of England in the coming days and we are urging health and social care services across the country to ensure they are prepared. It is vitally important that people understand the risk posed by high temperatures like these, and take steps to keep themselves and their friends, families and neighbours safe.”
A red heat health alert indicates a risk to life even for the healthy population. Dr Sousa advised: “Simple actions like staying hydrated, avoiding the sun during the hottest part of the day, and keeping your home cool can make a big difference. It’s also important to look out for others, especially elderly relatives, neighbours, and those with underlying health conditions, to make sure they are aware of the forecast and following the necessary advice.”
