Academy Trusts have particular requirements when it comes to the public procurement regime. Our deep understanding of the sector means our procurement lawyers can advise on specific points such as complying with the DfE Buying for Schools guidance, and how to procure contracts that allow for a Trust to increase the number of schools that receive services.
From advising on a specific aspect, such as the drafting of a contract to accompany an invitation to tender, through to managing the whole procurement process, our expert team provide advice that is both legally and commercially sound.
From time to time an unsuccessful bidder will make a complaint about the procurement process that has been run. We’re on hand to support your Trust through what can be a daunting and resource intensive time. Our procurement lawyers have successfully defended procurement challenges at all stages and provide pragmatic, risk-based advice that ensures our clients can make informed decisions and get back to their core business of delivering excellent education.
Supporting a large multi-academy trust with its procurement of catering services worth approximately £7m. We drafted a bespoke contract, including provisions relating to TUPE, public sector pensions, and detailed payment terms. We advised on the tender documents, and how to respond to clarification questions from bidders, as well as the finalising of the contract with the successful supplier. Our client has since used the same contract terms as a base for other tenders, delivering excellent value for money from their lawyers.
Working with a client to establish a number of frameworks that can be utilised by other trusts. This has included guidance on how to establish baseline usage figures, and how to provide sufficient flexibility in the contract for new schools or trusts to come on board.
"The Browne Jacobson team is very competent, responsive and knowledgeable and always ready to step in with a solution."
"Individuals show a genuine commitment. They are knowledgeable and reliable."
"Very down to earth and client focused. Pragmatic advice and not too risk averse."
"I have found the team extremely approachable and friendly. They are always willing to help and we find their advice refreshing. We feel supported and know when we contact them we will get professional trusted legal advice which takes into consideration what we want to do and what we are able to do."
Browne Jacobson’s education team has been named as winner of the ‘Legal Advisors to Education Institutions’ category at the Education Investor Awards 2022 for a record sixth time.
Over 3000 young people from across the UK and Ireland took part in a virtual legal careers insight event, aimed at making the legal profession more diverse.
The new set of Legal 500 directory rankings have been published and we are proud to once again be recognised as one of the country’s leading firms advising the Education sector.
National law firm Browne Jacobson has grown its team behind its dedicated Space + Time executive coaching programme with the addition of two more qualified coaches who will work with clients in the education sector.
The Cabinet Office updated Procurement Policy Notice 09/21 and accompanying guidance in December 2021, which replaces PPN 07/21. We outline its scope, associated guidance and impact for contracting authorities.
Tomorrow, (Wednesday 27th October), national law firm Browne Jacobson will host its second FAIRE: virtual work experience and legal careers insight event, in partnership with Young Professionals.
The Confederation of School Trusts (CST), as the sector body for School Trusts, today releases a salary benchmarking service for executive roles in School Trusts, in conjunction with partners XpertHR, Cendex and Browne Jacobson.
How to apply the Government guidance and other practical considerations when in a contract dispute with a supplier.
The publication follows recent media coverage regarding allegations of exploitation in the garment industry - what changes are proposed?
Procurement Policy Note 02/20 (PPN 02/20) is asking contracting authorities within England to play their part in keeping businesses up and running, by continuing to pay suppliers.
As we enter the second week of school closure, we have developed a new guidance for Boards to help you implement robust structures for urgent decision-making.
