Independent Schools
Fisher Jones Greenwood is the only firm in East Anglia to offer the independent schools sector a holistic and niche service. Our regional presence enables us to understand the ethos and values of each school and its leaders, enabling us to provide tailored bespoke advice to our clients. We offer schools advice on all aspects of education law, employment law, charities law, sale of schools and land, litigation claims and debt collection. Our team of family lawyers and mediators can also assist in the unhappy event of parental disagreements or staff marital breakdown which without timely advice can adversely impact on the running of the school.
In 2005 in collaboration with WillisPalmer www.willispalmer.com a team of independent social workers, we launched the ‘Education Alliance’, believed to be the first service of its kind in the country. The unique combination of legal and child protection experts provides schools with 24 hour assurance that if something goes wrong we are there to help. This service recognises that independent schools are increasingly subject to government regulation which can so easily escape the notice of the schools leaders.
The education alliance service is innovatively delivered through ‘health-checks’ of schools policies and backed up with a subscription service providing a month-by-month service whereby the school’s policies are constantly upgraded to take account of new legislative changes. We also provide a 24 hour help-line so that emergency advice and assistance is available. For less than £1,000 per year this effectively provides the school with its own ‘in-house’ legal and social worker team, 24 hours per day. In addition on-site staff training days can be organised on all aspects of law and child protection.
To find out more contact Yvonne Spencer, 01206 835241 or download the Education Alliance information pack
Free Education Alliance Seminars
Throughout the year we hold free evening seminars in Colchester for head teachers and bursars on topical issues affecting the work and management of the school. In the true spirit of the education alliance these seminars are designed to be practical and empowering.
previous seminar notes >
Jan 2006 – Topics covered
- Safe recruitment procedures in independent schools – new requirements came into force in June 2005
- Child protection – creating safe cultures and environments in independent schools
- Employment Law Update – the essential guide for managers of independent schools
June 2006 – Topics covered
- Child Protection Training in Independent Schools
- Fund raising opportunities and ideas for Independent Schools
- Principals of Good Governance for Governors in Independent Schools
get the notes