Education: Institutions (Schools)

David Smellie heads the dedicated safeguarding unit at Farrer & Co. He advises schools on a variety of issues including historic abuse claims, serious incident cases and proceedings before the SEND Tribunal.

"David is a leader in education."

"He is a subject matter expert."

"I had an excellent experience with David Smellie."

Head of the education practice at Farrer & Co, Jonathan Eley regularly represents schools and academies in a range of contentious issues. He frequently handles employment tribunals and is equally adept at assisting with acquisitions and pension matters.

"Jonathan is highly intelligent and effective."

"He is a trusted counsel."

"Jonathan Eley is a hugely valued source of advice."

"Jonathan's depth of experience and reflective, thoughtful manner are standout."

"Jonathan's calm efficiency, understanding of our needs, eye for detail and clarity in communication have all been outstanding."

Sam Macdonald regularly assists clients with the employment and data protection implications of school mergers and closures. He possesses particular experience in transactions involving charity law elements.

Alice Yandle advises schools on various corporate matters, including mergers, acquisitions and sales. She is also adept at assisting with employment and SEN issues, including redundancies, pension matters and discrimination claims before the First-tier Tribunal.

"Alice is calm and considered, even when faced with extremely challenging situations. Her advice is clear and to the point, and her drafting is first class."

"Alice commands our absolute confidence on all education, safeguarding and HR matters."

"She is a powerhouse and my go-to partner."

"She has a phenomenal work ethic and combines considered clarity with a keen eye for detail and, where necessary, a decisive instinct for what will close a matter down or shift the paradigm."

Paul Jones of Farrer & Co advises a range of schools on commercial contracts, governance and regulatory matters. He has extensive experience managing portfolios for independent schools and international partner schools.

"Paul has an exceptional knowledge of the commercial aspects of the education sector. He is incredibly responsive and his attention to detail is superb."

"He is very personable and pleasant to deal with."

"Paul is shrewd, genial, efficient, and has a wonderful eye for detail. His cheery benevolence belies his unerring sense of what is best for the client."

"Paul Jones is a trusted, pragmatic and knowledgeable advisor."

Maria Strauss regularly acts for independent schools and school trusts. She has substantial experience in handling sensitive employment, safeguarding and education law issues.

"Maria Strauss had an excellent understanding of complex issues."

"She provided quick, clear and decisive advice. Maria worked hard to provide an outcome which protected us from future challenge."

"Maria Strauss has a highly nuanced understanding and a remarkable recollection of past issues and their relevance."

"We are always reassured that all potential angles have been considered. Her advice considers aspects of school legal matters which go beyond legislation and guidance."