Wiltshire 999s reported on Wednesday 8 July 2026 that Dorcan Academy, a Swindon school, had changed its arrangements for the week because of the heat.
The school said it had been following the weather forecasts and guidance from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), which had issued an amber heat-health alert for the South West.
What did the school change?
- All detentions were cancelled for the rest of the week.
- On Friday 10 July, pupils would finish at 1pm after an adjusted timetable of five shortened lessons.
- Extra learning activities were to be set for pupils to complete at home.
The school told parents: "Due to forecast high temperatures, school will also close early on Friday at 1.00pm."
It asked that children bring water, put on sunscreen before school and use shaded areas at break times.
What did health officials say?
Dr Agostinho Sousa, head of extreme events and health protection at UKHSA, said the effects on health were not expected to match those of the heatwave in late June, but that older adults and people with existing health conditions remained at risk. The agency's advice was to stay hydrated, keep out of the sun in the hottest part of the day, keep homes cool and check on vulnerable friends, relatives and neighbours.
Source: Wiltshire 999s.