Schools across the Altrincham area will close early on Wednesday and Thursday as a heatwave pushes temperatures well above 30°C.
Wellington School in Timperley, Blessed Thomas Holford Catholic College and Altrincham College have all announced plans to shorten the school day in response to the exceptionally hot conditions expected over the next two days.
The BBC Weather forecast is currently predicting temperatures of 31°C on Wednesday and 34°C on Thursday in Altrincham. Combined with high humidity levels, conditions are expected to feel significantly hotter, with apparent temperatures potentially reaching the high 30s.
In a message sent to parents and carers, Wellington School said the decision had been taken following consultation with other local schools.
"With a view to giving parents/carers sufficient notice and following consultation with other local schools, namely Altrincham College and BTH, we have taken the difficult decision to close early on Wednesday and Thursday due to the extremely hot weather," the school said.
"Many students are finding it challenging and are struggling in the heat."
Wellington School will operate a shortened timetable on both days, with registration and the first three lessons taking place as normal. Period 4 will run from 12.10pm to 12.30pm, followed by lunch from 12.30pm to 1.10pm, when students will be dismissed.
The school stressed that all planned trips, including the Year 10 visit to Trafford College and the Silver Duke of Edinburgh expedition, will go ahead as scheduled, with further details to be provided directly to participating students and families.
Blessed Thomas Holford Catholic College has announced that it will close at 12.30pm on both Wednesday and Thursday, while Altrincham College will finish at 1pm on both days.
The early closures come as schools across the country face challenges in keeping classrooms cool during periods of extreme heat, particularly in older buildings not designed for sustained high temperatures.
Parents are being advised to ensure children remain well hydrated, wear appropriate clothing and take precautions against the heat while travelling to and from school.
The hot spell is expected to continue through Thursday before temperatures begin to ease later in the week.
All schools are currently planning to be open on Friday.
