The education practice at Doyle Clayton comprises ‘real experts in the education sector’ who offer extensive experience representing teachers and university lecturers in a variety of discrimination, contract breach, and misconduct claims. In addition to a record of handling high-profile cases related to free speech and harassment, the team is also capable of acting for students and parents in claims related to academic misconduct, discrimination, SEN issues, and safeguarding. The practice is led by Simon Henthorn, a ’hugely experienced, clever and strategic‘ lawyer who acts for teachers and professors across a wide range of mandates related to misconduct, discrimination, and general employment issues. Peter Daly is also highly recommended for his employment and discrimination expertise and is noted for his work on freedom of expression issues and breaches of contract. Other key contacts in the team include Amara Ahmad, a specialist for SEN and disability issues, and Anna Blackden, who advises on immigration issues.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Amara Ahmad was able to give me good advice and lead me towards a successful resolution of my case.’

  • ‘Doyle Clayton is an excellent firm with a range of genuine specialists in the education sector, covering all areas from FTT appeals to civil claims and higher education. They have a particular flair for discrimination work.’

  • ‘Amara Ahmad is absolutely superb. She has unending patience and compassion for clients, but is also able to give very clear advice about a client's best interests. Her written advocacy in terms of witness statements and applications is top-notch. I would unhesitatingly recommend her in this field. Simon Henthorn is similarly excellent.’

  • ‘Doyle Clayton are building a strong reputation in the education law world.’

  • ‘Amara Ahmad is a wonderful solicitor. She is bright, diligent and has an exceptional memory. Her handle of the facts on any case is exceptional. Peter Daly is also absolutely fantastic.’

  • ‘Doyle Clayton are the market leaders in representing university lecturers. The education team consists of real experts in the education sector.’

  • ‘Simon Henthorn is one of the best education lawyers there is. Hugely experienced, clever and strategic, emotionally intelligent, and dedicated to his clients.’

  • ‘Simon Henthorn is unflappable. Excellent judgment with a great client manner and communication skills. Simon has handled cases with high levels of skill and care.’

Lawyers

Leading associates
Rising stars with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Leading partners
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Doyle Clayton
Simon is a Partner and Head of Education at Doyle Clayton. His clients include schools, multi-academy trusts and further education colleges. He also acts for individuals including Heads, Deputy Heads, Bursars and Professors. Simon advises on all employment law issues and education matters involving safeguarding and pastoral care. He is a solicitor advocate. He has appeared in the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court in the education case, Duncombe -v- DCSF.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Simon Henthorn

Other key lawyers

Peter Daly, Amara Ahmad, Anna Blackden