Browne Jacobson LLP advises major universities and school trusts on an array of matters, from planning to construction to disputes. The firm also has particular strength in school merger advice. Nick MacKenzie leads the practice, specialising in governance and strategic advice. Lydia Michaelson-Yeates is also noted for her governance assistance as well as her mergers and restructuring expertise. Hayley O’Sullivan advises on education law issues, such as exclusions, complaint investigations and equality concerns. Philip Wood is another key name, with experience in admissions, SEND, exclusions and discrimination advice.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The firm provides second-to-none legal advice.'

  • 'The team is fantastic; they are very knowledgeable, organised, and responsive, and also have the client's position at forefront of their mind.’

  • ‘The Browne Jacobson team is extremely strong - it is a diverse team and this brings huge strength and wisdom.’

  • ‘Nick MacKenzie shows magnificent leadership in his contribution to sector insights.’

  • ‘Everyone is really supportive and friendly. I have never had a negative experience with this practice. I cannot recommend them highly enough.’

  • ‘Philip Wood is brilliant!’

Key clients

  • Arthur Terry Learning Partnership
  • Bath and North East Somerset Council
  • Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council
  • Brooke Weston Trust
  • Central Region Schools Trust
  • Chiltern Learning Trust
  • Elliot Foundation Academies Trust
  • GLF Schools
  • Headington School
  • King’s College London
  • Lion Academy Trust
  • Meridian Trust
  • Mercian Trust
  • Mossbourne Federation
  • Outwood Grange Academies Trust
  • Shaw Education Trust
  • University of Hertfordshire
  • White Horse Federation

Lawyers

Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Nick MacKenzie

Other key lawyers

Lydia Michaelson-Yeates, Hayley O'Sullivan, Philip Wood