School closures confirmed in Hertfordshire due to extreme hot weather
Hertfordshire County Council has confirmed that a small number of special schools have closed this week, in response to the extreme heat.
An amber extreme heat warning has been in place, covering much of southern and central England (including Hertfordshire) and much of Wales, since the beginning of the week.
And a red alert is now in place for Wednesday and Thursday, with temperatures in some areas expected to be in excess of 39C. Heads across Hertfordshire are being asked to make “reasonable adjustments” for the heat, where necessary.
And “a small number of special schools” in the county have already made the decision to close this week. Commenting on the situation, a spokesperson for Hertfordshire County Council said: “In light of the rare red warning for extreme heat covering Hertfordshire, it’s important for schools and early years settings to take steps to manage the risks associated with hot weather.
“The Department for Education and UK Health Security Agency have issued guidance for schools, and we have advised heads to carry out appropriate risk assessments and make reasonable adjustments where necessary.
“It’s up to headteachers to make the right decisions for their school and students, and our health and education teams will provide support as necessary.
“Extreme heat may pose a particular risk for special schools and their pupils, and we are aware that a small number of special schools have made the decision to close this week.”