Surviving the Heat

It’s always advisable to prepare for every eventuality so that nothing catches you off guard.

· Check the forecast regularly in the days leading up to the trip. Heatwaves can intensify quickly.

·  Adjust your plan if needed - know where shaded areas, indoor spaces, or air-conditioned facilities are at your destination. If you’re travelling with WST, Anglia Tours, Study Experiences or Sport Experiences you can ask your Tour Consultant to speak to our partners in your destination for more local information.

·  Communicate with parents in advance. Ask them to provide:

o    Refillable water bottles

o    Sun hats or caps

o    Sunscreen (high SPF)

o    Lightweight, breathable clothing#

·    It’s worth refreshing yourself and your team on OEAPs guidance on weather and group safety which covers managing sun exposure, sunscreen application, and heat exhaustion along with other weather hazards.

You might also want to pack a small “heat kit” for your group, including spare sun cream, cooling wipes, and extra water if possible.

Dehydration is one of the biggest dangers during a heatwave and we all often forget to drink regularly.

·         Ensure every student has a large water bottle

·         Take some additional frozen water bottles

·         Make hydration structured, not optional. Build in scheduled water breaks every 20 - 30 minutes.

·         Encourage students to drink small, frequent sips rather than waiting until they feel thirsty.

·         If possible, map out water refill stations ahead of time.

You might also want to pack a small “heat kit” for your group, including spare sun cream, cooling wipes, and extra water if possible.

Continuous exposure to the sun can rapidly lead to fatigue or heat exhaustion.

·         Alternate activities between outdoor and shaded or indoor areas.

·         Take head counts in the shade, not in direct sun

·         Plan regular rest breaks, especially around midday when the sun is strongest (typically 11am–3pm) and remind your students to re-apply sunscreen during these periods

·         Use shaded picnic spots, trees, indoor exhibits, or visitor centres strategically

Even short breaks out of direct sunlight can help students cool down significantly.

Students may not always make sensible clothing choices, so remind and reinforce expectations:

·         Encourage light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing

·         Ensure hats are worn consistently

·         Apply and reapply sunscreen throughout the day

As a teacher, model this behaviour too - it reinforces expectations and protects you as well.

Early recognition is crucial. Keep an eye out for symptoms of:

Heat Exhaustion:

·         Dizziness or faintness

·         Headaches

·         Excessive sweating

·         Nausea

Heatstroke (more serious):

·         Confusion or disorientation

·         High body temperature

·         Lack of sweating

·         Rapid pulse

If a student shows signs:

1.      Move them to a shaded or cool area immediately

2.      Provide water

3.      Loosen clothing and cool them down (e.g., damp cloths)

4.      Seek medical help if symptoms worsen

Make sure all accompanying adults are aware of these signs too.

Heat can make students more irritable, distracted, and tired—so maintaining organisation is key.

·         Keep groups small and manageable

·         Use clear meeting points and times

·         Avoid unnecessary walking - shorten routes or use transport where possible

Try to reduce physical strain wherever you can without compromising safety.

Let’s be honest - heat makes everyone a little less patient!

·         Expect shorter attention spans and lower tolerance

·         Build in downtime or quieter activities

·         Staff at the venues you are visiting may also be affected by the heat, so please be patient and understanding.   

·         Be flexible where possible - this is about safety, not perfection

A calm, understanding approach will help prevent minor irritations from escalating.

A heatwave doesn’t have to ruin a school trip, but it does demand extra care, planning, and flexibility. By prioritising hydration, shade, and wellbeing, teachers can protect their students while still delivering a meaningful experience.

With the right mindset and preparation, you can turn what might seem like a challenge into a well-managed and enjoyable day out.

·         DfE Guidance - Hot weather and heatwaves: guidance for schools and other education settings

·         OEAP National Guidance 7.2j Weather and Group Safety

·         Melanoma Fund - Sunguarding Outdoors

·         Melanoma Fund - Top Myths