New timetables, longer holidays: How can French schools adapt to heatwaves?
Summary
A new heatwave in France has led many schools to change their opening hours to protect students from high temperatures. With climate change causing more frequent and earlier heatwaves across Europe, there is growing discussion about permanently altering school calendars to better manage the heat.Key Facts
- Many French schools have changed their hours, including ending classes early and adjusting exam schedules, due to heatwaves.
- Last year, almost 2,000 schools in France closed early because of extreme heat.
- Heatwaves in France now happen more often and earlier in the year because of climate change.
- Southern European countries like Spain and Italy already adjust their school calendars to deal with hot weather.
- Since the 1980s, Europe has warmed about twice as fast as the global average.
- A report estimates that by 2050, 31,500 schools in Europe will face temperatures over 30°C during the school year, increasing to 25% of all schools by 2100.
- France’s summer holidays start later and are shorter than those in Spain and Italy, prompting ideas like extending holidays to June and September.
- The changes aim to keep students safe and maintain learning during rising temperatures caused by climate change.
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