We have a number of procedures in place to ensure all pupils onsite remain safe. This includes supporting them to remain in shaded areas at break and lunchtime (if it is not too hot to be outside), keeping physical exercise to a minimum, and keeping everyone hydrated with plenty of drinks throughout the day. Most areas in our school are air-conditioned, including most of our classrooms, and we are using fans in rooms that are not, to keep the school ventilated and as cool and comfortable as possible.

With the temperatures rising, it is essential that children come to school dressed in light, loose-fitting clothing that can provide adequate ventilation and help regulate their body temperature.

The school will be paying attention to signs of heat stress, heat exhaustion and heatstroke in staff and pupils. You can also follow the guidance below with your loved ones at home:

Signs of heat stress:

Children may seem out of character or show signs of discomfort or irritability (including those listed below for heat exhaustion). These signs will worsen with physical activity and if left untreated can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

The signs of heat exhaustion include:

A headache

Dizziness and confusion

Loss of appetite and feeling sick

Excessive sweating and pale, clammy skin

Cramps in the arms, legs and stomach

Fast breathing or pulse

A high temperature of 38C or above

Being very thirsty

The symptoms are often the same in children and adults, although children may become floppy and sleepy. If someone is showing signs of heat exhaustion, they need to be cooled down.If someone has heat exhaustion, follow these 4 steps:

Move them to a cool place.

Get them to lie down and raise their feet slightly.

Get them to drink plenty of water.

Cool their skin - spray or sponge them with cool water and fan them. Cold packs around thearmpits and neck are good too.

Stay with them until they are better. They should start to feel better within 30 minutes.

Call 999 if they have signs of heatstroke:

Feeling unwell after 30 minutes of resting in a cool place and drinking plenty of water

Not sweating even while feeling too hot

A high temperature of 40C or above

Fast breathing or shortness of breath

Feeling confused

A seizure

Loss of consciousness

Not responsive

Heatstrokes can be serious if not treated quickly. Put the person in the recovery position while you are waiting for help.

In addition, there is evidence to suggest that some medication some pupils may be on can affect body temperature regulation and make them more sensitive to heat. If you are concerned, check your child’s medication’s accompanying leaflet, and if you are concerned, discuss this with your prescribing GP , psychiatrist or pharmacist.

We know our pupils will be more likely to be affected by high temperatures, due to their conditions and/or complex health needs, therefore looking out for any signs of dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat stress or heatstroke is essential.

If you feel worried about your child coming into school when it is too hot, please let the office know so that we can authorise their absence.

Thank you for your support in ensuring we continue to keep your children safe and protected.