Families at the Playas de Orihuela primary school say children are continuing lessons in freezing conditions, with the school’s heating system still not working after the Christmas holidays. The return to classes has coincided with very low temperatures, with morning readings close to three degrees, and pupils spending hours in coats and blankets.

The parents’ association says the boiler has been out of action since March 2024 and that repeated complaints and formal requests to the council have failed to bring a lasting solution. Families say they were promised repairs and a restored gas supply after the holiday period, but the situation remains unchanged, raising concerns about pupils’ health and teachers’ working conditions.

With no clear timetable from the council, some parents have begun organising the purchase of portable heaters and are seeking donations from local companies. They insist this should not be the responsibility of families, but say they feel forced to act while children continue to suffer the cold in classrooms.

The issue has prompted criticism from neighbourhood and opposition groups, who describe the situation as unacceptable and are calling for urgent, transparent action. They want a confirmed date for the boiler repair, guarantees it will not happen again, and improved maintenance across all affected schools in the municipality.