France School Heatwave Forces Closures as Teachers Raise Safety Concerns
France School Heatwave has created serious challenges for schools across the country. Teachers’ unions say extreme temperatures are putting students and staff at risk. Many classrooms have recorded temperatures of up to 40°C, making learning difficult and unsafe. Despite the severe heat, France has continued its national examination schedule with additional safety measures. The situation has sparked fresh debate over school infrastructure and climate preparedness.
Teachers Demand Safer Learning Conditions
Most of France remains under a red weather alert as the heatwave reaches record levels. Authorities have closed around 3,500 schools because of dangerous temperatures. In addition, officials have reduced operating hours at nearly 10,000 other schools.
Many French school buildings were not designed for extreme heat. Most lack air conditioning and proper insulation. Large windows and limited ventilation cause classroom temperatures to rise quickly. As a result, teachers have closed curtains, used water sprays to cool children, and adjusted classroom activities.
Teachers’ unions have criticised the government’s response. They say officials failed to prepare schools for the growing impact of climate change. Therefore, unions have encouraged teachers to stop working whenever conditions become unsafe.
National Exams Continue Despite Extreme Heat
More than 850,000 students are sitting the national brevet examinations despite the heatwave. Education Minister Édouard Geffray confirmed that exams will continue with several safety measures. Officials have scheduled tests during the morning, increased spacing between desks, and supplied drinking water at exam centres. Students can also take breaks if they feel unwell.
Meanwhile, high school students are completing oral baccalaureate examinations in difficult conditions. Some students and examiners have reportedly felt faint because of the intense heat. The Île-de-France regional government has allocated €1 million to purchase fans and cooling equipment for exam centres.
The government also announced that future national exams will take place in the morning. However, teachers’ unions continue to demand long-term improvements. They want modern school buildings, better cooling systems, and revised academic calendars to protect students and staff during future heatwaves.
