Since the Academies Act 2010, the education team has become expert in advising the governors of primary and secondary schools on the academy conversion process and associated issues.

The Schools and Academies team advised Seaton Academy, one of the very first new-style academies in 2010, and since then has advised 50 schools on conversion.

Recently, the team has been advising schools on the formation of Multi Academy Trusts (MATs) and has been heavily involved with existing MATs as they have acquired additional schools.

Whether you’re joining a MAT, setting up a MAT or going it alone as a single academy, Burnetts’ team has the experience and expertise to guide governors through the process and to help your school achieve its new status.

If your school is considering becoming an academy, we are happy to come and talk through the main issues with your governing body.

How we can help

• Advising on the formation of academy trusts, companies limited by guarantee and exempt charities
• Advising on the conversion process, consultation and formation of the corporate body
• TUPE transfers of staff
• Transferring land and property, including leases and transfers
• Advising on regulatory and governance matters including data protection, charity law compliance and corporate issues