Having worked on Academy projects from very early in the Government’s programme, we are at the forefront of legal developments - pioneering structures for multi academy sponsors, the consolidation of individual academies into a single academy trusts, the acquisition of a academy trusts, PFI Academies and endowment arrangements.

We have worked closely with Partnerships for Schools (PfS)  to address sponsors' interests in the model form documentation – and through our perseverance won a number of improvements.  Our experience enables us to anticipate issues before they become problems and work to deliver a successful outcome.  Our lawyers’ experience in dealing with PfS gives us an edge in anticipating their reaction to possible derogations – before they are approached.

We have worked with both multi Academy and individual Academy sponsors.  We advise on all legal aspects of establishing and running an Academy including employment law issues, for example TUPE, defending tribunal claims and union recognition negotiations.  Our public law specialists act in connection with admission, exclusions and judicial reviews.  With dedicated construction and property lawyers we are able to offer practical and timely advise on all aspects of the development phase on new build and refurbishment schemes. 

Our clients include ARK Academies, The Basildon Academies, Future Academies, Gateway Academy, The Harris Federation of South London Schools, Oasis Community Learning, United Learning Trust and Westminster Academy.