Praised for its ‘exceptional combination of expertise, innovation, and client-focused approach’, Schofield Sweeney's far-reaching practice advises across academy conversions, land acquisitions and disposals, and education health care plans. Karen Crutchley, who chairs the practice from the firm’s Leeds office, counts the drafting and reviewing of commercial documents among her practice strengths. Bradford-based Andrew Hurst’s longstanding experience in the education sector includes assisting with development schemes for schools. ‘Outstanding practitioner’ Simon Shepherd conducts his own advocacy in Employment Tribunals in cases such as discrimination, whistleblowing and unfair dismissal. Tina Morris is well-versed in issues related to academy conversions.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
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Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team is efficient, very knowledgeable, with exceptional customer service standards and the quality of advice is of a consistently high standard.’
‘Simon Shepherd is the main trust point of contact. He is a very helpful, highly knowledgeable and friendly person who offers advice without any hint of condescension.’
‘Schofield Sweeney's solicitor team stands out for its exceptional combination of expertise, innovation, and client-focused approach.'
- 'The team at Schofield Sweeney have quickly understood our needs. I believe their support and innovative solutions position them as leaders in the field, making them the preferred choice for those seeking a progressive, client-focused legal partner. ’
'‘The individuals at Schofield Sweeney, particularly the contracts team led by Karen Crutchley and Caprice Coulson, have played a pivotal role in our business's rapid growth.'
‘Always available and always come back to you very quickly, no matter how complex the problem. The advice offered is pragmatic.’
‘Simon Shepherd is an outstanding practitioner. He understands the needs of the organisation and the people within it. His advice is clear, concise, unambiguous and pragmatic. I cannot rate him highly enough. ’
Key clients
- Carlton Academy Trust
- BMAT Education
- Wellspring Academy Trust
- Moorlands Learning Trust
- Attain Academy Partnership
- Enhance Academy Trust
- Heckmondwike Grammar School
- Beckfoot Trust
- Oasis Community Learning
- Bishop Wheeler Catholic Academy Trust
Work highlights
- Assisted the Moorlands Learning Trust with its planned expansion with the simultaneous conversions of three primary schools and a secondary school over two Local Authority areas during 2023.
- Assisted with the Carlton Academy Trust's continued expansion during 2023 advising on the directed rebrokerage of a Special Academy to join the Trust from a failing multi-academy trust as well as advising on the conversion of a PFI Special Academy to join the Trust.
- Assisted the Family of Learning Trust with the academy transfer of Shirley Manor Primary Academy.
Lawyers
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Karen Crutchley
Other key lawyers
Andrew Hurst; Simon Shepherd; Tina Morris