Sharpe Pritchard LLP‘s team regularly advises local councils on PFI academy conversion projects and is also trusted to handle major school construction projects. The team acts for a number of schools and London boroughs across the full academisation process and frequently handles contentious employment and contract issues that occur in the process. The practice is led by procurement and PFI specialist Tim Farr, who regularly works alongside key contact Catherine Newman to advise local government bodies on procurement initiatives for new schools. Employment expert Julie Bann is noted for her ability to advise on the charity and employment aspects of academy conversion projects.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The main reason I keep coming back to Sharpe Pritchard is the personal service that they provide. They understand our culture and approach to creating and delivering contracts.’
‘Justin Mendelle has a unique ability to explain legal terminology and interpretations. His experience and knowledge is the best.’
Key clients
- East Sussex County Council
- Hammersmith and Fulham Council
- Imperial College
- John Whitgift Foundation
- London Borough of Redbridge
- Wakefield Council
Work highlights
- Advised East Sussex County Council on two PFI conversions relating to complex, multi-school PFI arrangements dating back 20 years.
- Advised Wakefield Council on the procurement of public health services such as health visiting, early years assistance and school health support, including services delivered in schools.
- Advised the John Whitgift Foundation on a significant programme of works being carried out at one of its schools, split across three main projects involving the car park, estates department and sixth form centre.
Lawyers
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Tim Farr