High Temperatures in School

22nd June 2026

Dear Parents / Carers

I am writing to inform you about the current conditions within school during this period of exceptionally hot weather.

As you may be aware, our school building, although new, does not have air conditioning in any part of the building. Today, internal temperatures have been extremely high and have become increasingly difficult to reduce, despite the measures we have put in place such as morning ventilation, keeping lights off and blinds down.

Whilst I currently have no plans to close classes, I will assess the information I have every day from Devon county council, The Trust, Devon transport and with the staffing levels I have available to me.

I do have some concerns about the impact of this heat on our pupils and these concerns have been supported by school health professionals. I have to consider the additional vulnerabilities of some of our pupils when making any decisions as to how to respond.

The safety and wellbeing of our pupils is always our absolute priority and we will continue to:

    • Monitor all pupils closely for signs of heat-related illness
    • Maintain regular hydration and encourage drinking throughout the day
    • Adapt activities to reduce physical exertion
    • Use cooler areas of the building wherever possible
    • Closely observe our pre-verbal pupils for signs of feeling unwell, overheated, or distressed.

In light of all the above, I feel it is important to give families the option to make a decision that is right for their child.

If you feel that your child would be safer and more comfortable remaining at home during this period of extreme heat and in particular mid- week when the heat is set to increase, you may choose to keep them at home at times where the heat is highest. Any absences for this reason will be authorised.

We fully understand that changes to routine can be very challenging for our pupils and families, and that keeping your child at home may not be an easy decision. Please be assured that we do not make this suggestion lightly. However, we also recognise that you know your child best, and we want to support you in making the safest choice for them.

For those pupils who do attend they can of course wear clothing and shoes, most appropriate for the heat and that they can manage.

To help us, please ensure you apply sun cream to your child or young person before they leave home each day (if possible), and send in a named bottle of sun cream for staff to re-apply as needed. Please can all students have a named water bottle and a named hat in their bag.

If you would like to discuss your child’s individual needs or have any concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me at school.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support and understanding during these challenging circumstances.

Yours sincerely,

Sarah Pickering
Headteacher