Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP is well-known for its expertise in the education sector, maintaining a broad offering which handles employment, governance, and safeguarding matters. Practice head Daff Richardson specialises in employment-related instructions from higher education clients, while Gemma Woodhouse is particularly proficient in discrimination matters, often advising schools on parental complaints involving allegations of wrongful exclusion. Kate Glendinning’s workload consists of data protection and admission issues, as well as matters concerning the removal of pupils whose special educational needs could not be reasonably met.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
- Profile
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Pennington Manches Cooper has a strong knowledge base in the field of disability discrimination.'
‘Gemma Woodhouse is highly experienced in matters of disability discrimination and fights her client’s cases fearlessly. She provides sensible and commercially sound advice.’
‘The team at PMC is excellent. They are highly knowledgeable about the education sector and take the time to get to understand their clients to give the best possible service. Whoever answers the phone, PMC provide outstanding support.’
‘Katie Glendinning is exemplary. Her every interaction is professional and her knowledge of law, particularly in the context of the education sector, is faultless. Katie provides exemplary legal support whilst also being outstanding at communicating with her clients and building excellent relationships.'
‘Gemma Woodhouse is the most practical and responsive lawyer I have ever encountered.’
- 'Sector knowledge is the key reason we continue to work with Penningtons. The independent schools sector faces some unique challenges with staff, parents and occasionally students and their wealth of experience combined with a measured and informed approach is highly valued.'
‘Highly knowledgeable and professional.’
‘Gemma Woodhouse is experienced, knowledgeable, professional and extremely helpful. And she responds in double quick time.’
Key clients
- Keble College, University of Oxford
- Churchill College, University of Cambridge
- Minerva Virtual Academy
- Sylvia Young Theatre School
- Francis Holland School
- Town Close School
- St Anne’s College, University of Oxford
- Stanford University
- University of Exeter
- St Mary’s University, Twickenham
Work highlights
- Advised the American Institute for Foreign Study on a wide range of legal matters including real estate and data and information law.
- Advised an Oxbridge college client in relation to a complex and sensitive grievance matter.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Daff Richardson
Other key lawyers
Hilary Aldred; Sam Rose; Gemma Woodhouse; Kate Glendinning