Overview
- The Met Office's rare red heat warning was in force on June 24 and the amber alert has been extended in parts of the country, including Norfolk, because forecasters expect dangerous temperatures to persist.
- Nearly 200 schools nationally have closed or changed arrangements, with some multi‑academy trusts such as the White Horse Federation shutting all member schools and dozens of schools in Southampton closed after the local NEU urged full shutdowns.
- Responses vary by area and provider: many councils and education teams say headteachers should make final decisions, while some specialist and older buildings have closed because they cannot keep classrooms cool enough.
- Schools have used a range of measures to reduce risk, including full closures, early dismissals, remote learning, canceled trips such as Avenue Junior School's Norfolk Show visit, and temporary uniform relaxations to reduce heat exposure.
- The heat alert raises acute risks for vulnerable pupils and staff and is placing extra strain on transport, energy and water services, so officials and parents should watch local updates on warnings and reopening plans.