England - South West • Public sector
VWV
VWV ’s ‘market-leading’ Bristol team acts for academies, multi-academy trusts, independent schools and universities on a range of strategic and operational matters, including work in anticipation of large-scale political and legislative shifts. The unit is also well-known in the market for schools transactions, spanning sales, purchases, and charity mergers. Barney Northover and Chloe Brunton head up the team from the firm’s Bristol office. Simon Bevan is well versed in employment and discrimination law matters, while Tabitha Cave leads on safeguarding for the firm. Chloe Brunton, Con Alexander and Naseem Nabi are additionally noted for their capabilities.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The VWV Bristol team are recognised as market leading in relation to offering advice and guidance in the Independent School's market, which stems from their deep understanding of the sector.’
‘Barney Northover has huge experience in the schools sector and the unusual ability to genuinely listen and learn from clients prior to coming forward with innovative and creative solutions.’
‘ VWV continue to be the most personable and professional in all that they do.’
‘Chloe Brunton is amongst the best.’
‘Specialists who know the area, the relevant legislation and guidance and apply all that to the problem at hand.’
‘Kris Robbetts provides the right level of tailored advice.’
Key clients
- Bath Spa University
- Bournemouth University
- New College Swindon
- University of Bath
- University of Bristol
- University of South Wales
- Cabot Learning Federation
- The Priory Learning Trust
- Excalibur Academies Trust
- Cotham School
- Truro Diocesan Board of Education
- Trust in Learning (Academies)
- Cathedral Schools Trust
- Reach South Academy Trust
- Diocese of Gloucester Academies Trust
- Clifton College
- Bristol Grammar School
- Monmouth Schools
- Rugby School
- Cheltenham Ladies
- Pangbourne College
- Cranleigh School
- Badminton School
Work highlights
- Advised on the merger of The Pathway Academy Trust and The Galaxy Trust (two multi academy trusts) to form 'The Golden Thread Alliance'.
- Represented the Harpur Trust from 2013 through to judgment in July 2022, in the leading holiday pay case for the education sector (and wider economy).
- Advised the governors (charity trustees) of Moreton Hall Educational Trust Limited on their duties and responsibilities and helped them find an investor to avoid closure.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading individuals
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Barney Northover, Chloe Brunton