Introduce a policy on classroom temperature

Work with your head teacher to develop a policy for classroom temperatures at your school

30 KS1 KS2 KS3 KS4 KS5
Getting the temperature right in the classroom is important; too hot and everyone falls asleep and doesn’t learn, too cold and we shiver, and must put extra jumpers on. 
 
A hot classroom is also expensive as more heating Is needed, and heating costs money. The temperature in a classroom is normally controlled by a thermostat on the wall where you can set the temperature of the classroom, or by thermostatic radiator valves which are connected to each radiator. 

The best temperatures for schools are: 
  • Normal classrooms: 18°C
  • Corridors: 15°C
  • Areas with high levels of activity (e.g. sports halls): 15°C
  • Areas with low levels of activity: 21°C
  • Special needs schools or areas with very young children: 21°C


You can find an example policy on classroom temperature here or use this as a starting point to write your own.

Keep in mind the following:

  1. Who will have responsibility for measuring classroom temperatures?
  2. Who will have responsibility for adjusting thermostats or boiler settings?
  3. How will you record comfort levels?
  4. How will you encourage pupils and staff to put on a jumper if they are used to hotter classrooms?
  5. How will you monitor classroom temperatures long term to check they don't creep up again?
  6. Remember to use the Energy Sparks charts to see the impact reduced classroom temperatures have on the school's energy use.
  7. How will performance  be communicated to everyone in the school?

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