UK schools face unprecedented disruption as summer temperatures break records under a red heat warning. Dr Michaela James from the Centre for Population Health (CPH) commented on how education settings can better protect children’s health.
Dr James spoke on BBC Radio Wales Breakfast about the challenges that extreme heat presents for schools. She highlighted the importance of practical, evidence-based measures that help schools adapt to hotter weather while continuing to support children’s learning and wellbeing.
She represented two CPH projects: the collaborative UKRI CHILI Hub (led by UCL) and the HAPPEN Wales, based at Swansea University. Michaela emphasised the need for data-driven planning over sudden school closures.
A companion BBC News article also featured comments from Swansea University researchers Prof Rich Fry, Dr Amy Mizen and Dr Michaela James, alongside Prof Mary Gagen. Together, they highlighted the growing need for schools to respond to more frequent periods of extreme heat.
Research points to several practical measures that can help schools adapt, including:
- adapting daily routines and timetables during periods of extreme heat;
- ensuring children have access to hydration, shade and appropriate sun protection; and
- investing in longer-term improvements such as better ventilation and more shaded outdoor spaces.
The researchers also stressed that schools need evidence-based guidance now, while recognising that children in deprived communities and those with additional learning needs may be disproportionately affected by both heat exposure and school disruption.
“”Extreme heat is now a reality for schools in Wales, not something that happens elsewhere in the world. Helping schools respond effectively to hotter weather is an urgent challenge, not a future one”