Heat summary - for teachers working with vulnerable people and children
This page advises those working with children on how to reduce the risks of hot weather to the health of people they provide care for. This is part of the guidance for the hazard: heat.
Applies to England
CCHS navigation menu:
CCHS homepage
Topic: climate-related hazards
Hazard: all climate-related hazards, heat
Key resources for supporting vulnerable people:
- Heat summary - teachers and those working with children
- Full guidance
More roles:
Summary
Children can be at risk from hot weather because of their physiology, behaviours and activity levels. Children that are potentially at greater risk include those aged under 4 years, with health conditions or taking certain medications. This guidance includes information on:
- the health risks from heat for children
- practical actions for those working with young children to protect them during periods of high temperature
Where a child has complex health conditions or clinical vulnerability, advice should be sought from their clinical team and shared with relevant staff. Further information about supporting children with medical conditions is available from the Department for Education (DfE).
Who is this guidance for
This guidance is for those who manage or work in schools or early years settings and offers guidance and advice on action that can be taken when looking after children to reduce risk of ill health in these settings during hot weather.
Other information
This guidance applies to England. It was updated in 2024 and is scheduled for review in 2029.