“Becoming an Academy is the best decision we have made for our children. The ability to innovate and set an agenda that is centred on the enrichment of children’s lives makes our Academy an exceptional place to learn”.

Steve Docking - Headteacher,
Delamere Primary Academy
Converted using QualitySolicitors Oliver & Co. in April 2011

The Academies Act 2010 has paved the way for conversion of schools to Academy status, essentially opting out of local authority control and funded directly from Central Government.

We have developed considerable expertise in all the areas in which it is vital for our clients to obtain the specialist advice and guidance necessary to facilitate a smooth transition to Academy status.

We have an assembled a team of specialist lawyers at QualitySolicitors Oliver & Co. who are equally adept in the different legal fields involved in the conversion process.

In terms of the legal aspects there is a need to consider conversion from a number of different perspectives:

• Creation of the new entity;
• Constitutional framework for that entity;
• Regulation and authority – resolutions and registration requirements;
• Funding agreement;
• Transfer of assets and liabilities – including land and employees;
• Contractual frameworks for the future.

If you are a school considering converting to Academy status then we can offer a free initial consultation. We can talk through the process and discuss the clear advantages of converting to an Academy.

We have developed a short guide on converting to Academy status as well as a checklist designed to set out some of the main issues to consider when converting to Academy status. Please click here to be sent our guide.

Post Conversion Services

Converting to Academy status can be a big step for a school; it becomes its own legal entity and with this brings a plethora of new responsibilities.

We can provide ongoing assistance to Academies in the following areas:

• Employment law advice;
• Governance and company support;
• Admissions, appeals and exclusions;
• Commercial law and contracts with suppliers;
• Training.

We appreciate that transparency of fees will be one of the primary concerns for the new Academy when seeking legal advice, which is why we offer very competitive fixed fees.

Who we have helped

“The long haul is nearly over and I would like to place on record our sincere thanks for all your prompt and courteous service. I would have no hesitation in recommending your firm, should other schools approach us.”

Andy Sokill - Chair of Governors
Mellor Primary School
Converted using QualitySolicitors Oliver & Co. in October 2011