Job Title
Associate
Team
Education Pastoral Team
Overall objective
To work with colleagues to help clients succeed in realising their business or personal objectives, through the efficient delivery of appropriate legal advice and assistance in support of the Education and Healthcare Sector Plans.
Required skills, knowledge and experience
This position is to work within the Education Department's Pastoral team advising educational establishments on a broad range of education law issues.
The majority of work is likely to be commercial by nature; ie: advising on parent contracts, policies, inspection and regulatory issues, discrimination claims and statutory appeals. Experience of education, child and family, public law and regulation law would be very desirable but is not essential, as would experience of advising operators in the education sector.
The team also undertakes "incident management" work for education providers and although the applicant would not be expected to be involved in such work initially, there would be scope to assist with such work.
The work is to be in support of Education and Healthcare sector plans. The role may be suited to a bright commercial lawyer who is looking for a change of direction and the ability to try something a little bit different.
Admitted solicitor with current Practising Certificate and a developing expertise in education and related law. Must demonstrate an ability to work to the SRA Skills Standards and to provide accurate, focused advice to clients. Applications from practising barristers with relevant experience will also be considered.
Skills Required
The ability to:
- Develop strong client relationships with schools and other education institutions, including independent and maintained schools, FE colleges and Higher Education establishments. Similarly with health care sector clients, including care home providers.
- Interview and advise clients, helping them decide the best course of action
- Communicate concisely both verbally and in writing with colleagues and clients
- Draft documents that are clear and concise
- Conduct effective case and transaction management
- Excellent presentation skills with experience of presenting at seminars and conferences
- Experience of supervising junior lawyers
- Proven track record of business development
- Research the relevant legal issues applicable to a case
- Conduct negotiations where appropriate
