
Engaged by multi-academy trusts, sixth form colleges and maintained independent schools, Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP handles academy conversions, governance and regulatory matters. Ben Woods advises across governance and employment for a diverse range of school types. Nicola Bennison specialises in student issues and employment law, with depth in senior management, equality, admissions, exclusions and SEND. Diane Gilhooley covers contentious and non-contentious employment law and education governance. Carly Fishwick focuses on judicial review, Equality Act challenges and estate management. Christine Pilbrow handles mergers, joint ventures and commercial contracts. Alice Townley Smith advises on education, student and employment matters.
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Key clients
- LEAD Academy Trust
- Nova Education Trust
- ASC International Schools
- Beacon Multi Academy Trust
- Batley Multi Academy Trust
- Diocese of Norwich Education and Academies Trust
- Frontier Learning Trust
- The Wensum Trust
- Haberdashers’ Aske’s Federation Trust
- Trinitas Academy Trust
- Twyford Church of England Academies Trust
- Windsor Learning Partnership Beyond Schools Trust
- The Harmony Trust
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.

Practice head
Ben Wood; Nicola Bennison
Other key lawyers
Diane Gillhooley; Carly Fishwick; Christine Pilbrow; Alice Townley-Smith
