At Bridge School, the health, safety and wellbeing of our pupils and staff is our priority. While there is no statutory maximum temperature for schools and the Department for Education does not generally advise school closures during hot weather, we have procedures in place to help keep everyone safe during periods of extreme heat.

The school subscribes to Met Office Heat Health Alerts and will activate this plan when temperatures become exceptionally high. Measures will be reviewed and adapted according to the conditions.

What the School Will Do

During periods of extreme heat, we may:

  • Encourage children to use shaded areas during breaktimes, lunchtimes and outdoor learning activities.
  • Adapt or reduce strenuous outdoor activities and sports.
  • Adjust break and lunchtime arrangements where necessary.
  • Encourage regular water drinking throughout the day and provide access to water fountains.
  • Introduce additional water breaks within lessons.
  • Relax our uniform expectations, allowing children to wear PE t-shirts or plain cotton t-shirts. Parents will be informed if this is required.
  • Check playground equipment before use to ensure surfaces are safe.
  • Maximise ventilation in classrooms by opening windows and reducing unnecessary heat sources where possible.

How Parents Can Help

We ask parents and carers to:

  • Apply sunscreen before school each morning.
  • Provide a named sun hat. Non-uniform hats are permitted during hot weather.
  • Ensure children bring a named water bottle to school every day.
  • Send children in cooler clothing if advised by the school during periods of extreme heat.
  • Reinforce the importance of drinking water regularly and staying in shaded areas where possible.

Recognising Heat-Related Illness

Hot weather can affect children differently. Symptoms of heat exhaustion may include:

  • Tiredness
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Hot, red skin
  • Confusion or unusual behaviour

Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Signs may include:

  • A very high temperature
  • Hot, red skin
  • Rapid breathing or heartbeat
  • Confusion or loss of coordination
  • Seizures or loss of consciousness

If a child becomes unwell at school, staff will take immediate action to cool them down, encourage fluids and contact parents if necessary. Emergency medical assistance will be sought where required.