England - London • Public sector
VWV
The multidisciplinary education practice at VWV is well-regarded for its expertise in contentious matters, having represented universities across the country in employment tribunal claims, data breach claims, issues related to student accommodation, and internal disciplinary investigations. Birmingham-based practice head Jane Byford has advised a wide array of clients on the contentious and non-contentious aspects of employment and HR law, and London lawyer Bob Fahy is a further trusted contact for work related to industrial relations. On the non-contentious side, the practice also actively advises on procurement matters in connection with high-value commercial initiatives and construction projects. Birmingham-based corporate expert Morag Roddick, who joined from Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP in September 2022, and Bristol-based corporate student relations lawyer Kris Robbetts extend the practice’s offering into the regulatory compliance space and regularly provide advice on important university governance issues.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘VWV's knowledge, responsiveness, and drafting skills are well-matched to our needs, which are often complex. The VWV lawyers we have worked with show real interest in our objectives and have played an essential role for us.’
‘Morag Roddick and her colleagues stand out because they genuinely understand the charity sector. Morag's drafting is on point and crystal clear, which is a real boon to helping us achieve a meeting of the minds with the counterparty.’
‘VWV provides a good, full service.’
Key clients
- Bangor University
- Bishop Grosstesse University
- Bournemouth University
- Brunel University London
- Francis Crick Institute
- King's College London
- London Interdisciplinary School
- London Metropolitan University
- London South Bank University
- Middlesex University
- New City College
- Norland College
- Nottingham Trent University
- Orchard Hill College
- Roehampton University
- Royal Academy of Music
- The Institute of Cancer Research
- University & Colleges Information Systems Association
- University of Brighton
- University of Bristol
- University of Derby
- University of East London
- University of Greenwich
- University of Reading
- University of Roehampton
- University of Southampton
- University of Surrey
- University of the Arts London
- University of Worcester
Work highlights
- Advised the University of Bristol on the establishment of a new dental hospital as part of the University of Bristol Dental School.
- Advised Orchard Hill College on the relocation of its provision from Wyvern House to a new building in Hillingdon to establish the Park View Centre in Uxbridge.
- Acted for University of Southampton in its successful defence of an employment tribunal claim alleging whistleblowing detriment.
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Jane Byford