24/07/2026
Preparing for Hotter Summers: Why We’ve Developed an Extreme Heat Policy at Ignite Unlocking Potential
The recent Parliamentary debate on Extreme Heat Preparedness confirmed what many educators, outdoor practitioners and families are already experiencing: hot weather is no longer an occasional disruption, it is becoming a regular and significant factor in how we deliver education safely.
Across the UK, periods of extreme heat are increasing in both frequency and intensity. During the debate, MPs highlighted the growing impact on schools, public services and vulnerable communities, alongside the need for stronger planning and long-term adaptation.
One point was particularly clear.
There is currently no legal maximum temperature at which schools or outdoor learning providers must close. Instead, organisations are expected to assess risk and take appropriate action based on the conditions they are facing.
This reflects guidance from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the Welsh Government and Hwb. Rather than relying on fixed temperature limits, providers are expected to apply professional judgement, supported by robust risk management.
Why This Matters to Ignite Unlocking Potential: Most of our work takes place outdoors.
Forest School, adventurous activities, Duke of Edinburgh programmes and community projects offer powerful opportunities for learning and development. However, they also require careful consideration of environmental conditions.
Hot weather presents real and immediate risks, including:
* dehydration
* heat exhaustion
* heat stroke
* reduced concentration
* increased fatigue
* heightened risk for children and young people with additional health needs
These risks must be managed thoughtfully and proactively—not reactively.
A Different Environment
Unlike many traditional educational settings, our provision often takes place in woodland environments.
Woodland settings can offer natural advantages during hot weather, including:
* extensive canopy cover
* reduced direct solar exposure
* natural air movement
* cooler ground temperatures
* opportunities for regular rest and hydration
While these factors can help reduce heat exposure, they do not remove risk. Decisions must still be based on real-time conditions within the environment, not solely on regional temperature forecasts.
Moving Beyond “Too Hot”
Public discussion has increasingly focused on whether schools should close once temperatures reach a specific threshold, with some suggesting a maximum of 35°C.
While this is understandable, the reality is more complex.
A shaded woodland at 30°C presents very different risks compared to an exposed playground at the same temperature. Likewise, a low-intensity activity such as nature observation carries different demands than a physically demanding expedition.
Temperature alone does not determine safety.
A Structured Approach
Rather than relying on a single cut-off point, Ignite has developed a Hot Weather Management Policy built around:
* clear operational trigger points
* dynamic risk assessment
* defined leadership decision thresholds
* consideration of participant vulnerability
* activity intensity
* access to shade and drinking water
* continuous monitoring throughout the day
As temperatures rise, our response adapts accordingly—from increased hydration and shade, through programme modification, to senior leadership review in more extreme conditions.
Our aim remains consistent:
To maintain meaningful learning wherever it can be delivered safely.
Wellbeing Comes First
This approach aligns with national guidance.
The Welsh Government encourages education settings to adapt provision, prioritise vulnerable learners and continue learning safely wherever possible. Similarly, HSE guidance emphasises managing risk rather than relying on fixed limits.
The recent Parliamentary debate reinforced the importance of preparedness—ensuring systems are in place before extreme conditions occur.
Looking Ahead
Climate change is reshaping how we think about education, particularly in outdoor settings.
As practitioners, we have a responsibility to adapt in ways that protect both opportunity and wellbeing.
Our Hot Weather Management Policy is one step towards ensuring that children and young people can continue to benefit from outdoor learning, while keeping safety, inclusion and wellbeing at the centre of every decision.
At Ignite, our principle remains clear:
Educational benefit is only meaningful when the safety and wellbeing of those taking part are fully secured.
Link to the parliament debate : https://hansard.parliament.uk/commons/2026-07-14/debates/B155CB0B-23CF-4EDD-8C08-DCCF330F7DFD/ExtremeHeatPreparedness
See first comment for a copy of our Policy (for your reference).
Hansard record of the item : ' Extreme Heat: Preparedness' on Tuesday 14 July 2026.
