Even as students endure stuffy classrooms, overheated bus rides, and sit sticky through end-of-year exams, school closures due to heat remain highly unlikely in the UK.
The government maintains that school attendance is vital for children’s development and well-being — and that schools should remain open, even during a heatwave. However, schools are expected to make reasonable accommodations to protect students and staff from the effects of extreme heat.
How Schools Are Adapting
With temperatures climbing, many schools have already eased their uniform policies. In some places, pupils are being encouraged to ditch ties and blazers in favor of cooler options like PE kits or lightweight, breathable clothing.
Health and education authorities recommend adjustments to physical education lessons as well — suggesting a reduction in strenuous activity when conditions are especially warm. Meanwhile, teachers are being advised to keep children in shaded areas, apply sunscreen where needed, and promote the use of hats and water bottles throughout the day.
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Staying Hydrated and Recognizing Heat-Related Illness
Keeping students hydrated is a top priority. Easy access to drinking water is crucial, especially since children are more vulnerable to heat-related conditions than adults.
Staff have also been reminded to watch for signs of heat exhaustion, stress, or even heatstroke. These can include symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, nausea, headaches, or fainting spells.
Cooling Down the Classroom
To manage indoor temperatures, schools are turning to practical solutions. Early morning ventilation helps flush out hot air, while keeping windows shut later in the day prevents warmer outside air from raising indoor temperatures. Blinds and curtains are kept closed, doors left open for cross-ventilation, and lights kept to a minimum. In classrooms where the temperature remains below 35°C, electric fans may offer relief.
Too Hot to Work?
When it comes to the workplace, the UK government requires that indoor temperatures remain “reasonable.” However, there is no legal maximum temperature for workers. While no specific threshold exists, employers are expected to ensure a comfortable and clean environment for staff.
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When Will the Heat Break?
Forecasters expect the current heatwave to peak over the next few days, with much of the UK experiencing highs in the mid to upper 20s°C. In southern and eastern regions, the mercury may climb into the low 30s.
Nights in some areas — especially across southern England — will remain unusually warm, with temperatures potentially not dipping below 20°C.
By the weekend, western areas could see some relief in the form of thundery showers. The east will stay hot a bit longer, but by Sunday, slightly cooler air should bring temperatures down, especially in Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales, where highs may drop to 16-20°C.
However, early forecasts suggest that the southern UK could see another temperature surge next week.
For your latest local forecast, visit the BBC Weather website or download the BBC Weather app.
