During the summer of 2026, large heatwaves are sweeping all across Europe, and many schools are closing down. Though the heat is very extreme, with even reaching temperatures even reaching of 104 degrees, there are measures schools can take to keep students in class. Schools should not close down because of the heatwave, and here is why.
There is extreme heat in the United Kingdom, but classrooms should be equipped with fans, and air conditioning machines. Teachers should also remove strict uniform policies and let the students wear their own clothing since uniforms are sometimes made of thick material, making it hot.
History shows that during these heatwaves, many schools close because they are old and not equipped with air conditioning. The BBC argues that the students can bring small fans to school to help with this problem (BBC, 2026). There have also been late attendances or a massive increase in absences as a result of the large heatwave.
Reasons why schools should not close down are that even if students stay home, the heatwave issue remains. There is no difference between being at home or school when it comes to bearing the heat. By missing school, students cannot acquire knowledge. If they are at school, they can still learn something and have fun, though it may be hot for them. At home, they still deal with the issue of being hot, but they sit idle, wasting time. Other reasons may include going to different schools that are newer, which are equipped with air conditioning and fans. Also, schools should upgrade their facilities and add things that cool the room down. This can help cool down the students and allow them to focus on their education.
Parents may argue that staying home is better because students will not function properly in terrible and extreme heat. However, as long as they can have a small fan or go to a school with air conditioning, they will not need to worry about the warmth. The BBC also reports that teachers are bringing the students to the coolest parts of the school to have class so it will not be that hot. (BBC, 2026)
Students should stay in school and should not be sent home by the teacher simply due to the heat. Though the process of education may slow down due to extreme temperature conditions, they can still slowly grasp the knowledge. Parents should keep students in school despite the heatwave so they won’t just sit being bored in the heat. Schools should also upgrade their facilities with air conditioning and fans to cool down the hot days and continue education despite the weather.