Matrix Chambers is noted for its wide-reaching expertise in education law, with a growing reputation for acting in case law-shaping cases for schools, universities, individuals, and governmental bodies. Recent highlights include David Wolfe KC‘s appearance challenging the Government’s conversion of London’s Holland Park School into part of a multi-academy trust, with notable implications for the national academisation program. Sarah Hannett KC advised the University of Essex on a high-profile threatened judicial review surrounding the university's harassment policies. Daniel Squires KC conducted a noteworthy investigation into an independent school’s teaching of politically sensitive issues, while Helen Mountfield KC represented a visually impaired student in a race and disability discrimination claim against the Oxford Union after he was removed from a debate by security staff. The set’s profile was further bolstered with Claire Darwin KC and Nick Armstrong KC taking silk in 2023.
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Leading Silks
KCs at the very top of their field, with a long-established record of market-defining cases, and widespread endorsement from clients and peers. All silks appointed in the last two rounds are listed further below.
‘Helen provides authoritative advice on complex Equality Act issues which are at the forefront of public discussion. Her careful analysis enables instructing solicitors and their clients to manage some very sensitive issues.’
'In Sarah's work as an independent investigator of complex and sensitive matters, she works in a supportive yet independent manner as set out in her terms of reference.'
'Mathew is a highly experienced counsel. His attention to detail is excellent. He is proficient, highly professional, and empathetic towards clients.'
2023 Silks
'Very client-friendly and strategic. Gets to the heart of the case and provides pragmatic advice. Good style of drafting for advice and external correspondence.'
‘Claire is extremely efficient and delivers thorough written advice and submissions with particular skill, showcasing her specialist understanding of education law. She expertly pieces together persuasive arguments.'
'A real eye for detail and particularly strong on all matters relating to disability discrimination. Her knowledge is exceptional, as is her advocacy. On complex disability discrimination cases there is no one better.'
Leading Juniors
Leading juniors are those with significant experience of key cases, strong market recognition from both peers and clients, and are seen as future candidates for silk.
Leading Juniors
Leading juniors are those with significant experience of key cases, strong market recognition from both peers and clients, and are seen as future candidates for silk.