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Supporting Pupils During the Current Heatwave

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Supporting Pupils During the Current Heatwave

This guidance shares key advice to support schools in keeping children safe and well during periods of hot weather, in line with guidance from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). While schools are expected to remain open during hot weather, they should take all reasonable steps to ensure pupils are safe and comfortable.

Children are more vulnerable to heat-related illness. Risks include dehydration, sunburn, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Schools should remain open but take steps to keep pupils safe and comfortable.

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Keeping pupils cool and hydrated

Hydration:

  • Ensure regular access to drinking water.
  • Encourage frequent drinking, not just at break times.
  • Allow water bottles in classrooms.

Reduce heat exposure:

  • Minimise time in direct sun, especially between 11am and 3pm.
  • Use shaded areas for breaks and outdoor learning.
  • Adapt timetables to avoid peak heat.

Adapt physical activity:

  • Stop or reduce vigorous activity during hot weather.
  • Replace with indoor or low-intensity activities.
  • Provide more frequent rest breaks.
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Cool buildings, clothing and monitoring

Keep buildings cool:

  • Open windows early to improve ventilation.
  • Use blinds or curtains to reduce heat.
  • Limit use of heat-generating equipment.

Clothing and sun protection: relax uniform requirements where needed, and encourage:

  • Light, loose clothing.
  • Hats outdoors.
  • Sunscreen use.

Monitor children and watch for signs of heat exhaustion (tiredness, dizziness, headache) and heat stress (irritability, discomfort). Act quickly: move the child to a cool space, give fluids, and seek help if needed.

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Extra care for vulnerable pupils

Some pupils need extra care and attention during hot weather. Take particular care of:

  • Younger children.
  • Those with medical conditions or additional needs.

Follow individual healthcare plans where these are in place.

For local health protection advice and guidance, including staying safe in hot weather, visit the Tower Hamlets public health protection pages: towerhamlets.gov.uk health protection

Further national guidance for schools and early years settings is available from GOV.UK: ‘Hot weather and heatwaves: guidance for schools and other education settings’ and ‘Looking after children and those in early years settings before and during hot weather’.

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In an emergency

If heatstroke is suspected, call 999 immediately and then cool the child down while waiting for medical assistance.

If a child has a seizure, place them in the recovery position and follow 999 guidance.

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