Why do schools and nurseries close early in a heatwave?

School closures during hot weather are at the discretion of individual headteachers and nursery managers. Older school buildings in particular can become very difficult to cool, and when indoor temperatures exceed safe levels, or when a Red or Amber Heat-Health Alert is in place, settings may decide to close early or send children home. The government does not normally advise schools to close, but leaves the decision with school leaders based on local conditions.

What are the best indoor activities for kids when it is too hot to go outside?

The most effective indoor activities during a heatwave are ones that work in a cool, shaded space and do not require physical exertion. Arts and crafts, kitchen science experiments, board games, audiobooks, den building and baking (no-bake versions) all work well across a wide age range. For nursery-age children, sensory activities with cool materials - water play, playdough, ice cubes in a tray - are particularly good.