Heatwave Guidance for NEU Members

What You Should Be Asking From Your School

With an amber weather warning for high temperatures in place this week, it is essential that schools take immediate, practical steps to safeguard staff and pupils.

We have thermometers available for collection from the office to help monitor classroom conditions — but measuring temperature is only the first step. What matters is what action follows.

Below is a practical guide to what you should be asking of your school during hot weather, based on joint union advice.

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Member Checklist: What to Ask in Hot Weather

Use this checklist to quickly assess whether your school is taking appropriate action:

Temperature & Safety

• ☐ Are classroom temperatures being regularly monitored?
• ☐ Is there a clear plan for action if rooms exceed 26–30°C?
• ☐ Have staff been consulted about unsafe conditions?
• ☐ Have risk assessments been carried out and do they consider travelling to and from school?

Timetable & Workload

• ☐ Has the school adapted the timetable (shorter lessons, fewer activities)?
• ☐ Are there extra breaks built into the day?
• ☐ Have PE, sports days, or strenuous activities been cancelled?

Working Environment

• ☐ Are fans or cooling measures in place?
• ☐ Are blinds closed and rooms ventilated properly?
• ☐ Are staff being moved out of overheating classrooms?

Hydration

• ☐ Do staff and pupils have constant access to drinking water?
• ☐ Are water bottles allowed in all classrooms?
• ☐ Are regular hydration breaks encouraged?

Dress Code

• ☐ Has the dress code been relaxed for staff and pupils?

Vulnerable Groups

• ☐ Have risk assessments been updated for vulnerable staff?
• ☐ Are adjustments made for those at higher risk (e.g. pregnant staff)?

Escalation

• ☐ Has leadership considered partial closure or remote learning if conditions are unsafe?
• ☐ Are staff able to raise concerns without pressure?
  

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Final Message

Extreme heat is a serious health and safety issue — not an inconvenience.

📌 Thermometers are available from the office
📌 Use the checklist above to assess your school
📌 Report concerns where action is not being taken

Together, we can ensure safe working conditions for all.

Download joint union guidance here.