Class Actions
England & Wales
19 August 2025
Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP has a deep expertise in the education sector, advising schools and colleges on a broad range of education matters such as employment, governance, safeguarding, SEN and discrimination cases. The practice operates under the leadership of the Reading-based Gemma Woodhouse, who advises education clients on contentious and non-contentious employment matters and safeguarding. Immigration specialist Hazar El-Chamaa has significant experience advising educational establishments on child student visas. The team is supported by Victoria Spires and Laura Nichol, who have in-depth experience in the employment sector.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘A highly able multidisciplinary team with a good crossover between employment and education, which is of great value in their work for schools. They really know the sector and it shows in their work.’
‘Gemma Woodhouse - partner - really exceptional; works very hard for her clients; wonderfully pragmatic, great knowledge of the law and a pleasure to work with.'
- 'Laura Nichol - very hard working, highly responsive, very thoughtful about her work.’
‘Gemma Woodhouse is an excellent legal advisor. Highly professional and an expert in her field, she responds extremely promptly, which is often crucial.’
‘Unparalleled knowledge and expertise in the sector. Excellent personal contact and care throughout difficult situations.’
‘Gemma Woodhouse is superb. She understands the deep complexities of the education sector and the nuances needed when dealing with different stakeholders.’
Key clients
- Reed’s School
- University College School
- Wellington College
- Licensed Trade Charity
- Minerva Virtual Academy
- Sylvia Young Theatre School
- Falkner House
- St John’s Preparatory School
- Mander Portman Woodward
- Haberdasher’s Aske Schools
- Francis Holland School
- Town Close School
Work highlights
Advising an independent school in relation to a claim for disability discrimination from a pupil, including an appeal to the Upper Tier Tribunal.
Advising an independent school in relation to withdrawing from TPS.
Assisting a large independent school with the threat of judicial review following allegations of breach of contract and threat of withdrawal.
Practice head
Gemma Woodhouse
Other key lawyers
Hazar El-Chamaa; Victoria Spires; Laura Nichol