ASCL comment on risks to schools posed by climate change

20/05/2026
Emma Harrison, Business Leadership Specialist at the Association of School and College Leaders, comments on a report from the Climate Change Committee, which assesses the risks to the UK posed by climate change.
 
“This report makes clear the major risks that heatwaves, flooding and other extreme weather events pose to schools. There are already problems with overheating in the summer, made worse by the poor ventilation of many ageing school buildings and the growing frequency of extreme temperatures. There is a human cost to working in uncomfortable conditions and ultimately this results in lost learning.

“The school and college estate has been neglected over a long period of time and is not equipped to deal with the challenges posed by climate change. We are still waiting to see the DfE’s refreshed climate and sustainability strategy, and it’s vital that this includes investment to ensure schools and colleges are protected from these growing threats.”