Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of the present period of extreme heat on the capacity of schools to remain safe and operational.

The department recognises that heatwaves can disrupt pupils’ learning, attendance and wellbeing. We are committed to supporting schools and responsible bodies to maintain a safe learning environment during periods of extreme heat. While high temperatures can cause discomfort, reduced concentration and, in some cases, lower attendance, these impacts can usually be managed through practical and proportionate steps.

Schools are encouraged to adapt their arrangements in hot weather, for example by adjusting timetables, limiting strenuous activities, and ensuring classrooms are well ventilated and kept as cool as possible. Where attendance in person is not safe or reasonable, schools can provide high-quality remote education to maintain continuity of learning

The department has published the guidance ‘Hot weather and heatwaves: guidance for schools and other education settings’, which is based on UK Health Security Agency advice to support education settings. In most cases, schools remain the safest place for children during hot weather, as staff can monitor pupils, encourage hydration and take steps to keep them comfortable. Evidence also shows many homes are prone to overheating, affecting around 1.6 million children.

Maintaining attendance where possible therefore supports both educational outcomes and pupil wellbeing during heatwaves, and the vast majority of education settings remained open across the country, including in hotter areas.