Hundreds of schools across England and Wales are set to close this week as a heatwave brings temperatures soaring above 30°C, the government has confirmed. The unprecedented move comes after the Met Office issued an amber weather warning for extreme heat, with temperatures expected to reach 34°C in parts of the country.
Government Directive and Safety Concerns
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson announced the closures on Tuesday, stating that the safety of children and staff is the top priority. “We have taken the difficult decision to close schools in areas affected by the extreme heat warning,” she said. “This is not a decision we take lightly, but the health and well-being of pupils and staff must come first.” The directive applies to all primary and secondary schools in regions covered by the amber warning, which includes most of England and Wales.
Impact on Students and Families
The closures will affect an estimated 1.2 million students across 3,500 schools, according to the Department for Education. Many parents have been forced to arrange last-minute childcare or take time off work. Sarah Jones, a parent from Manchester, said: “I understand the need for safety, but this is a huge disruption. I’ve had to take leave from my job to look after my daughter.” Schools are expected to reopen once the heatwave subsides, likely by Friday.
Heatwave Precautions and Advice
The government has advised schools that remain open to implement measures such as cancelling outdoor activities, providing extra water, and ensuring shaded areas. Health officials have urged the public to stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activities during peak heat hours. The Met Office warns that temperatures could remain high into the weekend, with potential for further closures if the amber warning is extended.
