Schools Stay Open Amid UK Heatwave Crisis

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has advised parents to continue sending children to school if their school remains open amidst a severe heatwave. This comes as over 1,000 schools were either fully or partially closed on Wednesday due to extreme temperatures, which broke multiple June records, reaching 36C. Schools that have remained operational are employing special measures such as relaxing uniform policies and ensuring students stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activities.

Phillipson stressed the importance of regular attendance, noting that missed lessons disproportionately affect disadvantaged students. She also advocated for water safety education before the summer holidays, linking it to the "Save Lives for Sam" campaign. The extreme heat has led to widespread disruption, including reduced rail services, a hosepipe ban in some areas, and a warning from the National Energy System Operator about potential strain on the power network. The Met Office has issued red and amber weather warnings for extreme heat and potential thunderstorms.