Employment Law for Schools, Academies & Trusts

Built for Education

Specialist employment advice shaped around schools, academies and trusts.

Clear, Practical Support

Responsive guidance for everyday issues and complex workforce decisions.

Discipline & Grievance

Expert advice on investigations, disciplinary hearings, grievances and appeals.

Burgundy & Green Book Matters

Guidance on interpreting and applying national terms and conditions for teaching and support staff.

Performance Management

Support with capability procedures, performance concerns and staff development processes.

Sickness & Attendance

Advice on managing long-term absence, occupational health referrals and attendance concerns.

Discrimination & Equality

Practical guidance on discrimination claims, equality duties and workplace disputes.

Whistleblowing

Support with protected disclosures, investigations and risk management.

Contracts of Employment

Drafting, reviewing and updating contracts, policies and employment documentation.

Redundancy & TUPE

Specialist advice on restructures, organisational change, redundancy exercises and staff transfers.

Schools operate within a complex legal landscape. Employment law responsibilities can vary significantly depending on whether an organisation is a maintained school, academy, multi-academy trust or independent school. Questions around who the employer is, which terms and conditions apply, and how procedures should be implemented are rarely straightforward.

At HY Education, our solicitors and barristers specialise in education law. This means every piece of employment advice is underpinned by a thorough understanding of the governance structures, regulatory requirements and operational realities faced by education providers.

Whether you are dealing with a disciplinary issue, managing staff absence, implementing organisational change or seeking strategic employment advice, our team works alongside school leaders to provide clear, practical solutions that protect your organisation and support positive outcomes.

Who is the employer in a school?

This depends on the type of school. The employer may be the local authority, governing body or academy trust, depending on the school’s governance arrangements.

Do the Burgundy Book and Green Book apply to all schools?

Not necessarily. Applicability depends on the school’s status, contractual arrangements and historical employment practices.

Can you support disciplinary and grievance procedures?

Yes. We provide advice throughout the entire process, from investigations and hearings to appeals and documentation.

Do academy trusts need specialist employment law advice?

Yes. Academy trusts operate under a distinct legal framework and often face complex staffing and governance considerations that benefit from specialist education sector expertise.

Can you help with redundancy and TUPE processes?

Absolutely. We regularly advise schools and trusts on restructures, staffing changes, consultations and TUPE transfers.

EdTech Impact
“I would recommend HY without hesitation and frequently do to colleagues that I work with outside of my school. The score of 10 is because they have, and continue to help us navigate through various challenges with efficiency and professionalism.”
Stuart Wetson Headteacher, St Mary’s RC High School
EdTech Impact
“We got the result we wanted by having the help we needed when we needed it! A massively positive impact on a very challenging situation. Their support has actually improved the life and educational experience of a very vulnerable pupil and has brought relief to anxious family members.”
Linda Alliband Oakhill Primary School
EdTech Impact
“I have recommended before to other MATS. Previously as Deputy CEO of a large MAT i referred Alpha Academies trust, and since moving to Orchard, have taken out the services again.”
Sean Thomson CEO, Orchard Community Trust
EdTech Impact
“Honestly the best service! Being a Headteacher is getting harder everyday. This company supports my wellbeing by taking control of certain parent situations which are becoming out of control.”
Nicholas Edensor Headteacher, Beeston Primary School
EdTech Impact
“The ability to solve problems quickly without time delay. The impact of their timely responses are positive when dealing with challenging situations here.”
Lisa Hensall SEND Strategic Lead, St Barts MAT