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During the record-setting heatwave in June, hundreds of schools across England and Wales either closed or adjusted their schedules due to a rare red extreme heat warning. However, Alun Ebenezer, headteacher of Caldicot School in Monmouthshire, chose to keep his school open despite attendance dropping to just 33% on one of the hottest days. Ebenezer expressed criticism of the widespread disruptions, arguing that “the real world carries on in the heat,” while recognizing that different schools faced unique challenges.
Ebenezer, who took the helm at Caldicot School in 2023, highlighted that not all classrooms were air conditioned and that the top floor of the school became excessively hot. Nevertheless, the school implemented measures such as allowing students to wear PE kits to stay comfortable. He emphasized that many pupils come from less privileged backgrounds and might not have access to air-conditioned homes. “The idea that everyone is at home in air conditioned houses is rubbish,” he said, stressing that some children live in cramped conditions where parents have to work, leaving them to manage on their own. For these students, staying in school was the safer option, where precautions like hydration and lighter clothing were encouraged.
In addition to keeping the school open, lessons were adapted during the heatwave. Instead of the usual curriculum, students focused on building resilience and handling challenging circumstances. To make the experience more pleasant, the school brought in an ice cream van at lunchtime and permitted water fights. Comparing the current situation with the famously hot summer of 1976, Ebenezer suggested that today’s youth are less prepared to face tough conditions. He commented, “We try to be empathetic with people in the Middle East, Ukraine and war-torn countries and yet when the temperature rises in this country, we all get a bit snowflakey.” He questioned whether schools are adequately preparing students for real-life challenges, noting that many professions continue despite extreme heat.
Elsewhere, Chris Parry, headteacher of Lewis School in Pengam, made the decision to close his school for two days amid the heatwave, prioritizing pupil safety. Parry cited older buildings with poor ventilation and risk assessments as reasons behind the closure. Efforts to mitigate heat included encouraging hydration and using shaded areas, but worsening conditions and heightened warnings led him and the school governors to act cautiously. Parry noted that many businesses also closed during the heatwave and stressed the importance of students understanding workplace responsibilities. He called for long-term investment in school infrastructure, particularly better cooling systems, and urged collaboration between schools, government, and local authorities to adapt buildings originally designed for cooler climates. Representatives from teaching unions emphasized the urgency of upgrading school facilities to ensure safe and effective learning environments throughout the year. The Welsh government has indicated ongoing cooperation with local authorities and recently provided £40 million for school maintenance initiatives
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