Beating the Heat: What We Are Doing Right at Wales International School
Over the past several weeks, many families across Ogun State and the wider region have felt the effects of the extreme heat linked to the Super El Niño weather pattern. Temperatures have climbed, nights have been warm and restless, and the transition from harmattan to the rainy season has become harder to predict.
At Wales International School, Aseese, our first responsibility is the safety, health, and comfort of every child entrusted to us. We have not waited for the heat to become a crisis. We have acted early, and we continue to review our measures daily. I am pleased to share the ten precautions we have put in place.
Our Ten Precautions
1. Frequent Water Breaks
Hydration is our first line of defense. Teachers have been instructed to pause lessons at regular intervals so that every pupil can drink water. Pupils are encouraged to carry their own water bottles, and refill points are available across the campus.
2. Afternoon Showers for Creche and Nursery Pupils
Our youngest children are the most vulnerable to heat. Creche and nursery pupils are given a refreshing afternoon shower under the supervision of trained caregivers, helping them cool down, rest well, and stay comfortable for the remainder of the day.
3. Adjusted Outdoor Activity Times
Physical education, sports, and play have been rescheduled to the cooler parts of the day, early morning or late afternoon. During peak heat hours, children stay in shaded or well-ventilated spaces.
4. Improved Classroom Ventilation
Classrooms are kept well aired, with windows and doors opened to allow cross-ventilation. Fans have been serviced and checked, and arrangements are made so that no child sits in a stuffy or overcrowded corner.
5. Relaxed Uniform and Dress Guidelines
To help pupils stay cool, we encourage light, breathable clothing. Pupils may remove blazers, ties, and sweaters, and we advise parents to send children in clean cotton wear. Sun hats are encouraged during outdoor activities.
6. Shaded Play and Assembly Areas
Where possible, assemblies and break-time activities take place under shade. We have reorganised play areas so that children are not left exposed to direct sunlight for long periods.
7. Healthy, Light Meals and Fruit
Our kitchen and tuck shop have been guided to offer lighter meals, water-rich fruits such as watermelon, oranges, and pineapple, and to limit heavy, oily foods that can add to discomfort in hot weather.
8. Daily Health Monitoring and a Ready Clinic
Teachers and caregivers watch closely for signs of heat stress, including excessive tiredness, headaches, dizziness, flushed skin, and heat rash. Our school clinic is stocked and staffed to attend to any child who feels unwell, and parents are contacted promptly when necessary.
9. Rest and Quiet Time
Creche and nursery children have extended rest periods, while older pupils have calm, low-energy activities after lunch, which is usually the hottest part of the day. Rest helps young bodies regulate temperature and recover.
**10. Open Communication with Parents**
We are keeping parents informed through our official channels. We urge you to alert us about any health conditions, allergies, or special needs your child has, so we can give personalised care. Our teachers are always available to hear your concerns.
How Parents Can Help
Partnership makes our efforts stronger. We kindly ask parents to:
– Ensure children drink enough water at home and send a labelled water bottle daily.
– Make sure children get adequate sleep, even on warm nights.
– Dress children in light, comfortable clothing and send a hat or cap where appropriate.
– Inform the school of any illness or symptoms before sending your child to school.
Our Commitment
Weather may be beyond our control, but the care we provide is not. We will continue to monitor conditions, adjust our routines, and put the wellbeing of every child first. Should the situation change, we will communicate promptly and clearly.
Thank you for your continued trust and support. Together, we will keep our children safe, healthy, and ready to learn, whatever the weather brings.
Warm regards,
The Principal
Wales International School
Aseese, Ogun State
