With summer temperatures on the rise across the UK, parents may be questioning how heatwaves affect their children’s schooling — and whether high heat could mean time off from class.
While heavy snow or storms can lead to school closures, heat is treated quite differently. In fact, the UK government typically advises that schools should remain open, even in hot weather.
According to official guidance, attendance is essential for children’s learning and development, and warm weather conditions can usually be managed effectively. Schools are expected to take proactive steps to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for both students and staff.
Do Schools Close for Hot Weather?
There’s no set temperature threshold in UK law that requires schools to shut down due to heat. Although classrooms are expected to maintain a “reasonable” indoor temperature, there is no legal maximum at which closures are mandated.
Instead, schools are encouraged to adopt flexible and practical strategies during heatwaves. These can include loosening uniform rules, moving classes to cooler areas, and ensuring adequate hydration and sun protection.
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What Precautions Are Schools Taking?
During particularly warm days, schools may allow students to ditch blazers, ties, or jumpers in favor of lightweight, breathable clothing. The Department for Education also recommends children wear wide-brimmed hats, apply high-factor sunscreen, and stay in the shade during outdoor activities.
Classrooms with poor ventilation or excessive heat might be deemed unsuitable for learning, and teachers could move lessons elsewhere if needed. In rare cases, pupils may be sent home early — but only if parents are given proper notice.
Teachers’ Unions Weigh In
While the government avoids setting a legal maximum temperature, teaching unions have voiced concern. The National Education Union (NEU) suggests that 26°C should be the point at which schools begin implementing heat-mitigation strategies. These might include moving students to cooler rooms or even ending the school day early.
Security remains a priority during hot spells, especially when windows and doors are propped open for airflow. Schools must weigh the benefits of ventilation against potential safety risks.
Can Parents Take Time Off if Schools Close?
If schools do send children home due to excessive heat, parents are not automatically entitled to paid leave. Emergency leave policies vary by employer, so it’s best to review your workplace’s approach to unexpected childcare needs. In most cases, parents are allowed to take unpaid time off to care for their children if school closures occur.
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A Call for Change?
Back in 2013, during an intense heatwave, the NASUWT teaching union campaigned for a maximum legal classroom temperature of 30°C. Despite this push, no such regulation has been implemented.
As summers become warmer and more extreme weather events occur, the discussion around temperature regulations in schools is likely to continue.
In the meantime, schools are advised to be flexible and attentive, helping students stay cool, safe, and focused as the mercury climbs.
