The Legal 500 > United Kingdom - The Bar > London Bar > Education

11KBW retains its position as the 'leading set in education law and provides the best service' with members described as 'simply exceptional.' Recent instructions for the set include Peter Oldham QC acting in R (D) v Leicestershire County Council for the defendant on a discrimination claim regarding the council's transport policy on grounds of disability and age, as well as acting for a further education college challenging an Ofsted report. Tom Cross is acting for the claimant (as instructed by the Safe School Alliance) in a judicial review in R (Edwards) v Oxfordshire County Council and others challenging the council's response surrounding the balance between trans rights in schools and female-only safe spaces.

Matrix Chambers has a 'stellar range of exceptional and experienced juniors and top-level silks' acting for a range of clients, particularly further education and higher education institutions. Helen Mountfield QC is the key member of the education practice and is representing claimant Ebenezer Azamati against the Oxford Union Society in a highly publicized matter pertaining to racial and disability discrimination as well as assault. Sarah Hannett was instructed by Ofsted in the Independent Inquiry into Child Sex Abuse, while David Wolfe QC represents the Independent Schools Inspectorate in the same inquiry.

At 39 Essex Chambers, the set has 'strength in depth from junior to QC level' and 'boasts a number of genuine education specialists'  who have expertise handling discrimination claims, judicial reviews, and human rights-related matters. Head of the education group, Fenella Morris QC is acting for the claimants in R (AA) v LB Tower Hamlets challenging the council's decision to close Raine's School. Jennifer Thelen is acting for the defendant in Rabia Girls School v Secretary of State for Education around the de-registering of the school against independent school standards as well as issues around gender segregation in faith schools.

3PB is an 'excellent set with strength-in-depth' in the education field with members described as 'approachable and committed'. Recent instructions include Aimee Fox successfully defending Wolverhampton City Council in a judicial review matter against allegations that it failed in its duty under section 19(1) of the Education Act 1996, to provide education services to the claimant. Other highlights include Emma Waldron successfully acting for Queen Mary, University of London in a discrimination claim.