Cold weather information for teachers and other educational professionals

23 November 2023

Cold weather increases health risks for all age groups, but young children can be particularly vulnerable when temperatures fall because they lose body heat quicker than adults.

Guidance for those who work in or manage schools or early years settings offers advice on looking after children attending these settings during a chilly spell.

The main sections in the guidance include health risks to children and young people; actions to take before and during adverse weather - covering advice on buildings and premises, as well as supporting children and staff - plus further resources and information.

In addition to early years education settings and schools, this guidance also applies to:

  • wraparound childcare and out of school settings
  • children’s social care
  • alternative provision settings
  • special educational needs and disability (SEND) and specialist settings.