The Wren Academy in North Finchley, London, will shut its doors at 1.50pm for three days this week – one of a growing number of schools forced to send pupils home early as Britain braces for what could be the hottest June day on record.
Forecasters at the Met Office have issued a four-day extreme weather warning across large parts of England and Wales, with temperatures expected to reach 38°C and possibly break the 1976 record of 35.6°C set in Southampton. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) warned of significant impacts on health and social care, including a rise in deaths, particularly among those aged 65 or over.
“Schools close early and households urged to unplug appliances as temperatures could hit 38°C.”
Many schools are not equipped to deal with such heat, their buildings designed to retain warmth in winter. While most are not planning full closures, the Department for Education’s website states: “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.”
Away from the classroom, experts are urging households to take precautions with electrical appliances. Hair straighteners, phone chargers, and countertop devices like kettles and toasters can overheat far quicker in higher temperatures, increasing fire risks. The advice: unplug immediately after use, avoid charging devices overnight, and disconnect TVs and computers when not in use to prevent overheating and save energy.
The NHS recommends staying indoors between 11am and 3pm, the peak sun hours, and watching for signs of heat exhaustion – which can escalate to life-threatening heat stroke if untreated. Some schools are allowing pupils to wear PE kits or remove ties and jumpers, while others have asked children to bring refillable water bottles, caps, and sunscreen.
With the heatwave expected to last until at least Thursday, questions remain over whether more schools will follow Wren Academy’s lead – and whether the current guidance will be enough to keep pupils safe.