Record breaking cold temperatures have seen much of the UK blanketed by ice and snow, wreaking havoc for those trying to get to work and school. After a blisteringly hot summer, we're now experiencing a brutally cold winter - both causing dilemmas for schools wondering whether to shut or not.

As snow falls, many parents are wondering at what point school is cancelled for freezing weather, but it is far from simple. While snow can force a school shut due to lack of access, school buildings have a different set of rules when it comes to maintaining a suitable temperature to study in.

The Education (School Premises) Regulations Act, lays out the rules for teachers and school staff and outlines that it doesn't exactly matter what temperature is it outside, but inside instead. When the temperature is -1C or below outside, the school must be able to achieve certain temperatures. Readings are taken at a height of half a metre above floor level.

  • Temperature must be 21C - Areas where there is a lower than normal level of physical activity because of sickness or physical disability including sick rooms and isolation rooms but not other sleeping accommodation
  • 18C or above- Areas where there is the normal level of physical activity associated with teaching, private study or examinations
  • 15C or above - Areas where there is a higher than normal level of physical activity (for example arising out of physical education) and washrooms, sleeping accommodation and circulation spaces

The requirement to keep the school premises above a certain threshold often sees schools shut, particularly older premises. Should a school's heating system fail, the facility is automatically closed.

In the event of cold weather and snow, headteachers are responsible for deciding if the school day should proceed. This decision is typically made before 7am and is communicated to the school staff via email or text message. Additionally, the decision is often shared on the school's social media platforms and through local media outlets.

According to edapt.org, when assessing if a school should be shut, a headteacher should think carefully about the health and safety of pupils. A risk assessment will include:

  • The condition of roads and pathways in the local area
  • Availability of public transport and school coaches
  • The functionality of the school's heating, lighting and water supply
  • Whether catering can be provided
  • Availability of school staff to supervise pupils