UK Schools Adjust Opening Hours as Third Heatwave Brings Temperatures Towards 36C

Schools across England and Wales prepare for extreme heat as weather warnings remain in place

A new spell of intense summer heat is causing disruption across parts of the UK, with several schools announcing early closures as temperatures are expected to climb towards 36C.

The latest heatwave marks the third period of unusually hot weather this year, with forecasters warning that much of the country will experience temperatures above 30C. Southern parts of England are expected to see the highest temperatures, with some locations potentially reaching the mid-30s.

The Met Office has advised people to take care during the hottest part of the week, particularly vulnerable groups such as young children, older people, and those with existing health conditions.

Schools are among the organisations affected, with some choosing to reduce hours or close entirely to protect pupils and staff from the risks associated with extreme heat.

Heatwave conditions lead to school closures and early finishes

Several schools in England and Wales have confirmed changes to their usual schedules as classrooms become increasingly difficult to keep cool.

During periods of extreme heat, many schools face challenges including high indoor temperatures, limited ventilation, and concerns about keeping children safe throughout the school day.

Some schools have decided to send pupils home earlier than usual, while others have closed certain year groups or suspended lessons completely.

The affected schools include locations in several areas, including Berkshire, Herefordshire, London, Powys, Shropshire, Staffordshire, Swansea, Swindon, and Worcestershire.

Schools reporting changes include:

• Jennett’s Park CE Primary School in Berkshire
• Blackmarston School in Herefordshire
• Stormont House School in London
• Berriew County Primary School in Powys
• Buttington Trewern County Primary School in Powys
• Llanfechain Church in Wales Primary School in Powys
• Haberdashers’ Abraham Darby School in Shropshire
• The Bridge School in Shropshire
• Hednesford Valley High School in Staffordshire
• Ynystawe Primary School in Swansea
• The Dorcan Academy in Swindon
• The Beacon Primary Pupil Referral Unit in Worcestershire
• Chawson Community First School in Worcestershire
• Holyoakes Field First School in Worcestershire
• The Bewdley School in Worcestershire
• Unity Academy in Kidderminster
• Offmore Primary School
• St Anne’s CE Primary School

The list of affected schools may change as weather conditions develop and more schools review their plans.

UK records more days above 34C than previous decades

The current heatwave follows a period of consistently high temperatures across the UK.

Temperatures reached 35.5C in Wisley, Surrey, during the latest hot spell. Weather experts said this contributed to a record number of days in a single year where temperatures exceeded 34C.

Before this year, the highest number of days reaching that level was recorded during the famous hot summer of 1976 and matched again in 2020.

Although the current conditions are not expected to break the UK’s highest temperature records, officials have warned that prolonged heat can still create serious risks.

Unlike the previous June heatwave, when temperatures climbed close to 38C, the latest hot spell is expected to be slightly less severe in some areas. However, experts say people should continue taking precautions.

Health warnings issued across parts of England

The UK Health Security Agency has issued amber heat-health alerts covering areas of the Midlands and southern England.

The warnings encourage people to stay hydrated, avoid unnecessary exposure to direct sunlight, and check on those who may be more vulnerable during hot weather.

Children are considered particularly sensitive to extreme heat because they can become dehydrated more quickly than adults. Schools and parents are therefore being advised to take sensible steps, including encouraging pupils to drink water and stay in shaded areas where possible.

Families are also being reminded that hot weather can affect sleep, concentration, and general wellbeing.

Firefighters warn about increased wildfire risks

The hot and dry conditions have also raised concerns about the possibility of wildfires across the countryside.

The National Fire Chiefs Council has urged the public to take extra care outdoors and avoid activities that could accidentally start fires.

Disposable barbecues, discarded cigarettes, and glass objects left in direct sunlight can all create dangerous situations during dry weather.

Fire officials have reminded people that even a small spark can quickly develop into a large fire when grass, woodland, and vegetation are dry.

Authorities are also warning people about the dangers of swimming in open water during hot weather. Every summer, emergency services respond to incidents involving people entering rivers, lakes, and reservoirs to cool down.

How people can stay safe during the heatwave

As temperatures rise, health experts recommend several simple measures to reduce the impact of extreme heat.

People are advised to:

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day
• Avoid spending long periods in direct sunlight
• Wear lightweight clothing
• Keep homes cool by closing curtains during the hottest hours
• Check on elderly relatives, neighbours, and vulnerable people
• Never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles
• Take extra care when exercising outdoors

Parents should also follow guidance from schools, as individual closures and timetable changes may vary depending on local conditions.

What happens next?

Forecasters expect temperatures to remain high before conditions gradually become more comfortable in some parts of the UK.

However, experts say heatwaves are becoming a more regular feature of British summers, meaning schools, councils, and families may need to continue adapting to periods of extreme weather.

For many schools, early closures provide a practical way to protect pupils while allowing staff and families time to prepare for the hottest conditions.

As the summer holiday period approaches, officials are encouraging everyone to enjoy the warmer weather responsibly while remaining aware of the risks.

Sources

• Met Office weather forecasts and heat warnings
• UK Health Security Agency heat-health guidance
• National Fire Chiefs Council safety advice
• Publicly available school announcements regarding temporary closures and timetable changes

Disclaimer

This article is intended for general information purposes only. Weather conditions, school arrangements, and public safety guidance can change quickly. Readers should check official sources, local authority updates, and individual school communications for the latest information. The article does not provide medical, legal, or emergency advice.