The Government has issued an update on whether schools need to close as temperatures are set to soar to 38C this week. The Met Office has expanded an amber extreme heat warning covering large parts of England from Monday until Thursday, with forecasters warning of exceptionally hot and humid conditions both during the day and overnight.

As the country braces for the heatwave, schools have begun issuing guidance to parents and pupils, with many relaxing uniform rules and introducing measures aimed at keeping children safe and comfortable. Despite the soaring temperatures, the Department for Education has said it does not normally advise schools to close during hot weather. The department said: "During hot weather, we don't normally advise schools to close. This is because school attendance is the best way for pupils to learn and reach their potential, and hot weather can usually be managed safely". Instead, schools are being encouraged to take practical steps to protect pupils from the heat.

Official guidance states that "schools could consider relaxing uniform rules during hot weather to make sure pupils are comfortable."

Imberhorne School in East Grinstead told parents: "You may have seen that we are likely to have temperatures of around 30 degrees at points throughout the week next week.

"Our uniform policy allows for black, tailored shorts, but we will also relax this just for next week to allow students to wear their PE shorts."

The school also urged parents to ensure children bring refillable water bottles, apply sunscreen and wear hats, adding: "We will be advising them to remain out of direct sunlight as far as possible."

Meanwhile, Kingsland Primary School in Herefordshire has outlined temporary changes to help keep pupils "comfortable and safe" during the heatwave.

Children will be allowed to wear PE kits on Tuesday and Thursday, while Wednesday will be a non-uniform day.

The school said staff would continue to monitor temperatures and carry out daily risk assessments, while outdoor activities and playtimes may be adapted where necessary to help children avoid prolonged periods in direct sunlight.

Children are also being encouraged to wear loose, light-coloured clothing where appropriate and spend as much time as possible in shaded areas.

The Department of Health and Social Care also recommends that children avoid vigorous physical activity during very hot weather.

While individual schools may make temporary adjustments to uniforms, timetables and outdoor activities, Government guidance remains that schools should stay open wherever possible during the heatwave.