Schools across large parts of the UK are set to close this week, with the Met Office issuing red extreme heat alerts and warning about the possibility of a 40C heatwave. The warnings cover large parts of England and Wales on Wednesday and Thursday, while amber alerts are also in place over the coming days.
Despite the soaring heatwave temperatures, the Department for Education advises: "During hot weather, we don't normally advise schools to close. This is because school attendance is the best way for pupils to learn and reach their potential, and hot weather can usually be managed safely". Official guidance states that "schools could consider relaxing uniform rules during hot weather to make sure pupils are comfortable." However, schools across Oxfordshire and Hampshire have closures and early finishes scheduled for this week. Headteachers have voiced fears over the safety and comfort of pupils and staff, with many schools relaxing uniform rules and adding extra water stations. School days are also being cut short.
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