With a client roster including leading universities such as the University of Oxford as well as the Department for Education, Burges Salmon LLP offers a broad set of support in the education sector with experience covering inadequate Ofsted ratings, joint ventures and mergers, and employment-related work. The Bristol-based team is led by Matthew Ramus, noted for his expertise in PPP, PFI and outsourcing mandates. Luke Bowery assists with employment and HR matters, including tribunal, discrimination and whistleblowing claims, and senior associate Huw Cooke has experience in employment and immigration cases. Procurement expert John Houlden supports on bid strategies, while Tim Roberts advises on transactions.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'This practice stands out due to its fusion of expertise, innovative approach, and commitment to client satisfaction.'
  • 'The team is exceptional and provides expert thoughtful advice demonstrating a real understanding of the issues. I would not hesitate to recommend them to any organisation which needs practical, expert and clear advice in this area.'
  • 'Luke Bowery and Huw Cooke are both exceptional and provide insightful analysis and advice in this growing area where case law is constantly developing.'

Key clients

  • The Department for Education
  • University of Bristol
  • The Safeguarding Company Limited
  • Ascent
  • Trustees of the Cardiff University Pension Fund
  • QS
  • Birmingham City Council and Birmingham Children’s Trust Limited
  • Shareholders of Firebrand Training
  • Bud Systems
  • W H Ireland Ltd
  • Gemba
  • University of Exeter
  • York St John University
  • University of Oxford
  • University of the West of England
  • Bath Spa University
  • Cardiff University
  • OFSTED
  • Office for Students
  • Reading Borough Council

Work highlights

  • Advised central and local government on major Children’s Services restructuring programmes and “Alternative Delivery Models”.
  • Advising the University of Bristol in connection with a new £300m campus development in Bristol city centre.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Matthew Ramus

Other key lawyers

Luke Bowery, John Houlden, Tim Roberts, Huw Cooke