Updated School Guidelines on Adverse Climate Events to Safeguard Student Safety and Well-being

Ms He Ting Ru asked the Minister for Education (a) whether the Ministry will compile and publish updated and integrated guidelines for schools to safeguard student health and well-being during adverse climate events, such as haze or heatwaves; and (b) how will these guidelines balance student safety and well-being with minimising disruption.

The Ministry of Education works closely with the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment, the National Environment Agency and the Ministry of Health to draw up guidelines for our schools to manage adverse climate events. These align with whole-of-Government plans and advisories. These guidelines enable learning to continue with minimal disruption during adverse climate events, while ensuring student safety and well-being. For example, schools should modify or, if necessary, suspend physical and outdoor activities when conditions pose risks to student well-being. These guidelines are updated and communicated to schools regularly.

Additionally, schools receive timely reminders on mitigation guidelines before anticipated adverse climate periods. This ensures that schools can implement the necessary measures swiftly when climate conditions deteriorate. Schools also keep parents updated on the measures taken.