Browne Jacobson LLP is well regarded for its expertise in advising across the full range of matters in the education sector. The team is 'exceedingly knowledgeable in their fields of expertise'; core areas of instruction include governance issues, complaints matters and challenges to decisions made by local authorities, often in relation to EHCPs. The practice is led by Bettina Rigg, who has 'tremendous experience in the sector' and often advises on equality matters and discrimination claims. Victoria Hatton's workload includes special educational needs matters, admissions, exclusions, discrimination claims, and corporate and governance cases. Julia Green left the firm in May 2025.

With its extensive knowledge of the South West education sector, the team at VWV frequently advises state schools, academic trusts, independent schools and universities on a wide range of matters. The practice is jointly led by Barney Northover, who specialises in advising independent schools, and Chloe Brunton, who brings expertise in handling charity governance matters for academies; both practitioners are based in Bristol. Other core areas of instruction include assisting independent schools and academies with restructurings and M&A matters, compliance and governance issues, and employment work. Simon Bevan's workload includes employment issues, industrial relations cases and compliance matters. Tabitha Cave is a key contact for regulatory and compliance matters, as well as assisting with investigations and complaints procedures.

At Burges Salmon LLP, the team has an excellent track record in representing universities, private education providers and governing bodies in matters, as well as assisting with employment disputes, apprenticeships and on-site training. The practice is led by Matthew Ramus, a key contact for advising on procurement matters and government projects. Luke Bowery is very experienced in advising on restructurings and employment tribunal matters. Tim Roberts is well-versed in handling corporate and commercial transactions in the education sector, and Huw Cooke focuses on employment law matters.

Harrison Clark Rickerbys is 'an outstanding firm with huge experience in the education sector'. The team, which is based in Cheltenham, regularly acts as counsel to independent schools across the country, and is very experienced in assisting with transactions, safeguarding, health and safety, governance, data protection and employment matters. Practice head Kristine Scott has expertise in handling complaints, dismissals and pupil exclusions. Rachel Parkin is a specialist in employment law, and is well versed in assisting clients with restructurings and Employment Tribunal claims. The 'exceptional' Oliver Daniels regularly assists independent schools and academy trusts, and Paul Watkins advises on safeguarding and compliance.

Stone King LLP‘s practice is home to a team of ‘deeply knowledgeable experts who provide professional and nuanced advice‘. The group has expertise in acting for independent schools and academic trusts in disputes, often involving challenges to Ofsted decisions. Other key areas of instruction include financial issues, governance matters, school mergers and Employment Tribunal cases. Jean Boyle, who advises on restructurings, trade union, TUPE and safeguarding matters, is based in the firm’s Bath office. Michael Brotherton brings experience in advising on regulatory issues; Helen Tucker handles acquisitions and employment work; and Ciara Campfield specialises in procurement matters.