For the first time ever, The Met Office has issued a red extreme heat warning for Sunday 17th July, Monday 18th July and Tuesday 19th July, as temperatures will build this weekend and early next week for much of England and Wales.

The red warning highlights likely adverse health effects for the public, not just limited to those most vulnerable to extreme heat.

Temperatures could be in excess of 35°C in the southeast with Monday and Tuesday most likely to see temperatures around this level.

There is clear government guidance on looking after children and those in early years settings during heatwaves, including the use of ventilation, keeping children hydrated, avoiding vigorous physical activity, encouraging children to wear loose, light-coloured clothing and sunhats with wide brims, using sunscreen, and providing them with plenty of water.

We would like to reassure parents that we are adhering to these guidelines and will be doing everything we can to keep children cool and hydrated throughout the day. The children will be kept in the shaded areas of the field at break times/lunchtimes and we have erected a gazebo on the field for outdoor learning to take place for the mobile classroom if necessary. Children will be reminded to drink regularly and will have access to water dispensers at all times.

Please provide your child with a wide-brimmed sun hat for better protection and apply SPF 30 Sunscreen before they arrive at school.