As full-time working parents of two children, we have personally witnessed the negative impact that this summer’s heatwave in the UK has had on our children, their peers, and dedicated teachers. It was heartbreaking to see our children struggle to concentrate while enduring extreme temperatures in classrooms not equipped for such conditions. They, along with their teachers and fellow parents, deserve a safe and comfortable learning and working environment, regardless of the weather.

Recent summers in the UK have set record-high temperatures, a phenomenon exacerbated by climate change. This is not an anomaly but a lasting trend, and we must proactively address this annual challenge. If we do not act now, we risk not just our children's education but their overall health and wellbeing.

To combat this, we urgently call upon the UK government to provide both financial and infrastructure support to schools across the country, enabling them to swiftly build and adapt to heatwave conditions by next summer. This support should prioritize installing air conditioning systems, heat-resilient insulations, and greener schoolyard designs that provide sufficient shade and cooling.

Statistics from UK

Research involving approximately 20,000 schools in England, published by researchers including the Met Office, UCL and UKHSA scientists, found that the schools at greatest risk could experience up to 15 school days a year with indoor temperatures above 35°C under a world 2°C warmer than pre-industrial levels. (UK Health Security Agency) 

UKHSA specifically recognises children as vulnerable to hot weather because of their physiology, behaviour and activity levels, with children under five, those with health conditions and those taking certain medications at greater risk. Heat stress in children can cause irritability, discomfort and altered behaviour, and can progress to heat exhaustion or potentially fatal heatstroke. A body temperature of 40°C or above is one warning sign of heatstroke requiring emergency treatment.

By investing in heatwave-adapted school infrastructure, the government can not only ensure a safe learning environment but also improve educational outcomes and protect the health of the next generation. Neighborhoods across the UK are already feeling the strain; it is time for decisive and long-term government action.

Join us in urging the government to take these necessary steps to future-proof our schools against extreme weather, ensuring the safety and success of our children. Please sign this petition to demand urgent government intervention and support for heatwave-adapted school infrastructure.