Extreme Heat Measures Letter from Ms Barnard

Dear Parents and Carers,

The Met Office has extended a red extreme heat warning for Sunday, 17^th July through to Tuesday, 19^th July as temperatures will build this weekend and early next week for much of England and Wales.  There is clear government guidance for schools in these circumstances including the advice that schools do not close, and I want to reassure you that we have incorporated all recommendations into our plans for the forthcoming week.

 

In light of the guidance, we have had to take the decision to cancel our planned Sports Day on Tuesday.  I understand that there will be some disappointment as children and staff were looking forward to this annual event, however there are risks involved with standing and waiting for long periods in the direct sun as high temperatures and extreme heat can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat cramps and heat stroke.  Children are at risk of heatstroke if they do intense physical activity in hot weather without sufficient, regular hydration.

 

Following the DfE guidance, when outdoors, children will remain in the identified shaded areas of the school.  We are fortunate to have large grounds at Rose Lane which can accommodate this and therefore children will be able to have a short, safe break from the indoor learning environment.

 

Additionally, it is also recommended that children should wear loose, light-coloured clothing to help keep cool.  As a reasonable adjustment, we are relaxing the school uniform for this short time period.  Please do be mindful that footwear would still need to fulfil health and safety guidance and therefore cannot be ‘loose’ for example flipflops.  We also request that children are not sent into school wearing cardigans, fleeces or coats/jackets.  Sometimes children feel that they must wear these items despite obvious discomfort because it’s what their parent/carer told them to wear earlier in the day when temperatures are much lower and often more comfortable.

 

Please also apply sunscreen of at least factor 15 with UVA protection to their skin prior to the start of the school day and also ensure that your child has a full water bottle when they come into school.  We will refill as the day progresses and children will be reminded regularly to stop and have a water break.

 

Within the learning environment, we are making further adjustments based on DfE guidance and will be minimising lighting and switching off electrical equipment when not in use to further reduce heat.  Classroom spaces will remain ventilated throughout the school day to promote safety and comfort.

 

By year group, we will have a short period of time (10 to 15 minutes) of outdoor splash time to further assist taking the edge off the heat.  This will be carried out in a controlled and safe manner.  Children may want to change into their PE kit after splash time so please also ensure that this is in school for the start of the week.

 

As always, my leadership and management team are available at the start and end of the school day should you wish to clarify any of our plans.

 

I wish you a safe and cool weekend.

 

Yours sincerely

 

 

 

Ms Jacqui Barnard
Head Teacher

Rose Lane Primary School