Education law


Our experienced, nationally-recognised education practice can help with the whole spectrum of legal issues that education institutions face – whether related to public, private or charity law.

Education and research transform lives and play a vital role in the flourishing of the UK economy and civic society, operating at the forefront of scientific, medical and technological development.
 
Educational institutions inhabit the intersection of the public, private and charity sectors, creating a unique combination of legal and regulatory issues.
 
We have the breadth of experience to help our clients operate successfully in this challenging environment.
 
We're recognised as a leading provider of legal services to the sector, acting for over 120 universities, colleges, national agencies, academies, educational businesses and charities across the UK.

Our experience

Our education experience is deep and wide-ranging. Examples include: 

  • Student and research related issues, including plagiarism, academic misconduct, fitness to practise and immigration

  • Governance, such as powers, duties and constitutional issues

  • Regulatory and equality law requirements

  • Consumer law issues, including drafting or reviewing contract terms, policies, websites, etc.

  • Advising on freedom of information, data protection and privacy issues, including substantial experience of matters before the Information Commissioner's Office and in the information tribunals

  • Risk and liability

  • Advising on student union issues

  • Advising and representing clients in contentious proceedings including judicial review, civil and commercial claims, at mediation and in contentious issues with an international element

We have substantial experience supporting our clients with international challenges, managing risks and disputes in other jurisdictions.
 
Our lawyers attend and speak at national and international education law conferences, contributing to the latest thinking on issues affecting the education sector.

Our clients

We act for over 120 education institutions, including universities, colleges, independent schools and academies, including:

  • Birmingham City University
  • Royal Veterinary College
  • University of Cambridge
  • University of Nottingham
  • University of Manchester
  • The British Council
  • FE colleges
  • Independent schools

We're also national sponsors to the Association of Heads of University Administration (AHUA).

Our lawyers

Our lawyers invest in building long-term client relationships and in understanding the policy, regulatory and commercial context in which organisations in the education sector need to operate.

Get in touch

Our team of legal experts are here to support you.
Contact one of our lawyers today.

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Our expertise

Academies and schools
Apprenticeships
Education law
Further education and skills
Higher education and research
Independent (private) schools
International
University financial resilience taskforce

Meet our education law team

Related sectors & services

Education Education law