Students who starting college this term did so following a summer that broke many records – and not in a good way. 2026 is the first year since records began to reach 35°C or higher during May, June and July, with the MET office declaring this summer as the UK’s hottest on record. This contributed to over 1000 wildfires throughout the country. The stark reality is that the summer we have just experienced may be the coolest summer our students will know, as the climate crisis take serious hold of the UK and tips us into unchartered territory. Become a member for unlimited access to FE Week Our members enjoy early access to exclusive content and in-depth articles before anyone else. Get expert journalism on FE and skills, experience fewer ads, and unlock a growing range of member benefits. subscribe If you have an account, please login. Sign in