Liverpool law firm advises schools on academy conversion

Schools looking to secure academy status should make sure they fully understand the implications involved in converting, a Liverpool law firm has warned.

When a school achieves academy status, it must follow a strict procedure to ensure the conversion process is completed successfully.

This process increases the workload of headteachers, governors and bursars due to a greater responsibility on their part.

Some of the implications involved with achieving academy status include establishing a charitable company known as the academy trust, and securing a funding agreement with the Secretary of State.

Financial implications must be considered such as the transferal of assets and school contracts from the governing body to the trust.

There are also various implications to consider with regards to land and buildings. Schools need to ensure the transferal of land from the governing body by way of lease or the transfer of the freehold of the land.

Paul Crowley and Co Solicitors, the sponsor of the WOW recognition award at the Educate Awards, is offering advice on the legal implications of academy conversion and hopes to support schools through the unfamiliar process.

Derek Dawson, head of commercial, says: “Converting to academy status can be a daunting process for schools and the legal aspect often feels like unchartered territory. We are pleased to be offering this new cost effective service to enable schools to complete the conversion process as smoothly as possible.”