June 2026
Record Heat in Wales: What It Means for Schools
Wales has recorded its hottest June day on record, with temperatures reaching 35.9°C and forcing widespread school closures, travel disruption, and public health warnings.
Beyond the immediate impact, the situation raises a bigger question: are our schools prepared for a changing climate?
CHILI perspective
CHILI’s Dr Michaela James highlights that closures are not a failure of schools or staff, but evidence that: school infrastructure isn’t designed for extreme heat
She points to key issues such as overheating classrooms, limited green space, and rigid uniform policies — all of which directly affect pupils’ comfort and ability to learn.
Why it matters
Dr James emphasises the impact on children’s wellbeing, with heat affecting concentration, health, and overall school experience.
She calls for evidence-based, practical guidance shaped by the real experiences of children and teachers, rather than treating heatwaves as one-off events.
The bigger picture
The wider BBC article shows how extreme heat is exposing weaknesses across Wales — from schools to transport — highlighting the need for long-term adaptation to climate change.
