As much of the UK grapples with a summer heatwave, the UK Health Security Agency has issued an amber heat-health alert for England, effective through Monday. With temperatures soaring and uncomfortable conditions affecting daily life—from stuffy commutes to overheated exam halls—many are wondering how schools will respond.
Schools to Stay Open, Adjustments Encouraged
Despite the rising temperatures, school closures are unlikely. Government guidance emphasizes the importance of school attendance for children’s mental and emotional well-being. Therefore, even during heatwaves, schools are expected to stay open.
That said, educators are required to take precautions to ensure student safety in extreme heat. Children, being more susceptible to heat-related illnesses, may need additional care and supervision during warm conditions.
Many schools are easing uniform requirements, advising students to leave blazers and ties at home and opt for breathable, loose-fitting clothing—often PE kits or light cotton outfits. Adjustments to physical education lessons are also recommended, with the Department of Health and Social Care advising a reduction in intense physical activity during peak temperatures.
Staying Cool and Hydrated
To help pupils cope, schools are encouraging students to stay in shaded areas, wear hats, apply sunscreen, and—crucially—stay hydrated. Access to cool drinking water is being prioritized.
Teachers and staff are also being urged to watch for signs of heat-related stress, such as headaches, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, and fainting. These symptoms could indicate heat exhaustion or even heatstroke, which require immediate attention.
Tips for Keeping Classrooms Cooler
There are several ways schools can manage the temperature inside buildings:
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Open windows early in the morning or overnight to let cooler air in, and close them during the day to trap it.
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Keep curtains and blinds drawn to block out direct sunlight.
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Use minimal artificial lighting.
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Keep doors open to promote airflow.
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Deploy fans if the temperature stays below 35°C, as they can offer some relief.
Also Read – Education Gap Widens as Poorest Students Miss More School After Covid
How Hot Is Too Hot to Work?
While schools are expected to remain operational, the workplace isn’t held to a specific maximum temperature under UK law. The government mandates that indoor work environments must remain “reasonable” in temperature, but it provides no specific upper limit.
However, employers are required to ensure that working conditions are comfortable and that the air quality remains fresh. If you’re struggling with heat at work, it’s worth discussing cooling measures with your employer.
When Will the Heat Break?
This burst of heat is expected to peak through Saturday, with temperatures in parts of southern and eastern England climbing into the low 30s°C. Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales will experience slightly milder conditions, with highs generally between 16°C and 20°C.
The nights, particularly in southern areas, will remain warm, with overnight lows possibly staying above 20°C.
Some relief may come in the form of thundery showers over the western regions during the weekend. The eastern areas, however, may continue to experience the heat into early next week, with temperatures expected to rise again in southern parts of the country.
To stay updated, check your local forecast or download the BBC Weather app.
