We understand that the decision to convert to an academy trust is one of the biggest decisions a governing body can make. The education team at Birkett Long has been externally recognised for its work in supporting schools through the conversion process. Such external recognition is in part due to our straightforward and friendly approach and substantial knowledge of the issues facing schools converting to academy status.

We offer a free initial consultation session, at your premises, to headteachers and governing bodies that are looking to convert their school to an academy. 

We provide detailed guidance on the conversion process, the issues involved and the timescales over which the process runs. We facilitate a question and answer session to assist you in helping you to make the right choices for your school. We will also advise on some of the things you need to do and consider before commencing the conversion process so that you have a strategy in place so that you are ready to proceed.

Before embarking on conversion, there are certain things we believe governing bodies need to consider:

1. Timing – when do you want the conversion to be finalised? It usually takes 3-5 months to convert.
2. Have you prepared in advance for conversion? Have you gathered commercial contracts, property-related documents and employee contracts ready for the conversion process? What is the capacity of the senior leadership team to engage in the conversion process?
3. Consideration needs to be given to the obligation to consult with parents on the proposed conversion. There are no rules as to the length and form of the consultation, but we would suggest a minimum length of 4-6 weeks. Parents should be made aware that the consultation is a formal one for the purposes of obtaining views on the proposed conversion.

From the start of the conversion process, we will put together a team of specifically chosen individuals from the education team with the required expertise to ensure an efficient process. 

A project lead will be appointed, who will oversee the conversion project, be available at all times to answer any queries that you may have and keep you updated on progress. That project leader will be available via a direct dial and by email. You will also have access to the contact details of every member of the team so that you can get in touch with who you need to at any time.

During the conversion process, we take a step by step approach with guidance and support provided by us at every point.

Our step by step approach includes:

• Governance briefings to ensure governors understand the process.
• Dealing with the transfer of school land and buildings.
• Preparing Articles of Association and Funding Agreements.
• Making sure the TUPE process runs smoothly (transfer of employees).
• Preparing the documentation required to transfer assets (other than land) and staff.

We know that schools want certainty on their legal spend for conversion. That is why we provide a fixed fee quotation on all academy conversion projects.

Once the conversion process has completed, we want to support you in reaching your aims for the trust, along with meeting the challenges you will undoubtedly face. We believe such support should be delivered through cost-effective legal products that are transparent when it comes to fees and that such fees are fixed whenever possible. 

This gives you budget certainty and leaves you with more capital to spend on those who matter, the students. That is why we provide various fixed fee services that are wide-ranging and all-encompassing. 

For further details or for a no-obligation chat regarding the process, please contact Thomas Emmett, solicitor and Head of Education Law at Birkett Long on 01245 453847 or thomas.emmett@birkettlong.co.uk