Educational organisations are calling for nationwide heat protection measures to be implemented in schools across Germany, anticipating a period of exceptionally high temperatures potentially reaching 39 degrees Celsius.
The calls stem from concerns about the impact of extreme heat on the health and well-being of students, teachers and school staff. Anja Bensinger-Stolze, board member of the Education and Science Union (GEW), emphasized the necessity for consistent regulations concerning work and health protection within school environments.
Advocates are pressing for comprehensive modernization efforts in schools. Proposed improvements include green roofs, permeable and vegetated schoolyards, shade structures, sun sails, heat-insulating glazing and blinds and a guaranteed supply of free drinking water for all students and staff. Training programs focusing on first aid and safety practices related to heat-related incidents are also being proposed.
Gerhard Brand, national chairman of the Education and Upbringing Association (VBE), highlighted the responsibility of school authorities to provide the necessary funding for these upgrades. He stressed the need to equip existing school buildings to ensure continued learning even during periods of intense heat. Brand further suggested greater utilization of alternative learning locations during the hotter months when appropriate for curriculum needs.
