See how Poole Alcock can help your Academy…

Our team of Corporate and Commercial Solicitors are highly experienced in all aspects of acting for Academy and Multi Academy Trusts.

We have acted for clients converting to Academy and Multi-Academy status, as well as advising on the acquisition of schools and nurseries by already established Academy Trusts.

Some of the services that our Corporate and Commercial team can provide for your Academy are:

Practical Advice on the Contracts

Many of the agreements that underpin becoming an academy are standard documents provided by the Department for Education (DfE). Our specialist advisors can provide comprehensive advice on the practical implications of entering into each of these documents, and liaise with the DfE and other third parties to agree any amendments which may be required.

Incorporation of Subsidiary Companies

Most Academies, being registered charities, have articles of association that prohibit private trading except in certain circumstances. An example of private trading is running a private nursery for profit. One way that an Academy can trade is by incorporating a subsidiary company, from which to run the private venture. Provided that the profits of the subsidiary are only used to further the goals of the Academy, this is not in contravention of the DfE standard articles of association.

Third Party Consents

Academy Conversions always involve the local authority and the DfE and may also involve third party landlords and their solicitors. We have extensive experience managing the requirements of each of these groups, and ensuring that all deadlines are met, so that your conversion or acquisition is completed on time.

Commercial Property

One of the most important elements of the conversion or acquisition process is ensuring that suitable premises are secured. Our Commercial Property team has experience dealing with both local authorities and private landlords, to negotiate and agree lease terms, obtain all necessary consents, and ensure that the premises are ready and available, when the new academy requires them.

If you run a school that is thinking of converting to Academy status, or you are looking to grow your Academy by acquisition, contact Luke Pritchard on 01270 613 905 or by email at luke.pritchard@poolealcock.co.uk . Alternatively you can visit our commercial services page here for more information or fill in this form and one of our team will contact you.