If you are a maintained school thinking about an academy conversion, we are well equipped to take you through the step by step process to ensure a successful conversion.

We understand what is involved as we did the first academy conversion in 2002 and have been working closely with our clients helping them through the process ever since, having now worked on over 1000 academy projects.

We have a deep understanding of the education sector and the capacity to deliver that knowledge quickly when required, when it comes to helping businesses the firm knows client just need to get the job done.

Every new academy is different and we work with you to ensure those involved move as smoothly as possible to academy status.

Our step by step approach:

  • Governance briefing to ensure governors understand what is involved
  • Articles of Association and Funding Agreements
  • Transfer of school land and buildings
  • Employment: Making sure TUPE process runs smoothly
  • Transfer of Assets and Staff (non-land)
  • After Academy Status

We will allocate a specific team to your conversion to ensure you know who you are dealing with, always with a partner in overall charge. We will make sure that we hit your deadlines and those imposed by DfE to ensure that your conversion happens smoothly and on schedule.

We know that schools want clarity and certainty on their legal spend for conversion, and we will always be up front with you on fees, and we will look to give you fixed costs for your conversion wherever possible.

What our clients say

"First and foremost they are excellent lawyers - they know the charity and education sectors really well."

Chambers - 2019

What our clients say

"Highlighted for its 'depth of expertise in education', Stone King LLP attracts praise for its 'extremely good response times' and 'outstanding level of service'."

Legal 500 - 2019

What our clients say

“I feel fellow school leaders need to be made aware that there is an absolutely brilliant company out there who will provide those key services at very competitive rates”

C A Wakefield - Maldon's Community Academy

What our clients say

Stone King is "probably the best education firm in the business," and "they lived up to the recommendations we received". Another source adds: "They've got undoubted expertise and good geographical coverage - a leading player."

Chambers - 2014

What our clients say

"They are excellent. They get the gist of what's required and they understand what we want to get done. Their advice is sound and clear-cut, and they deliver it in a human way." "They invariably respond with prompt, unambiguous and first-class advice."

Chambers - 2015

What our clients say

"Great private and state school clients."

Client feedback in Chambers - 2016

What our clients say

"They are excellent, the personalised service is superb as they understand our circumstances and advise appropriately."

Client feedback in Chambers - 2016

What our clients say

"As our MAT conversion process finally nears completion, I would like to express our thanks to Stone King for all your expertise and help in guiding us through this demanding process."

Peter Barnes, CEO, Oakgrove School, Kingsbridge Educational Trust

What our clients say

"Stone King provided us with excellent support throughout the whole process"

CWA Academy Trust

The law and practice referred to in this article or webinar has been paraphrased or summarised. It might not be up-to-date with changes in the law and we do not guarantee the accuracy of any information provided at the time of reading. It should not be construed or relied upon as legal advice in relation to a specific set of circumstances.