Happy new year and welcome to this edition of our education team newsletter
After the festive period, many children - especially those with special educational needs - are happy to settle back into normal routines. Whilst December is a lovely time of year for many, for children with special educational needs it can also bring disruption to routines, sensory overload and increased social demands. We hope that all children were able to enjoy the festive period and have returned to school feeling happy and settled; however, we recognise that this is not the reality for many. For some children, the return to school can be filled with apprehension and anxiety, and we remain here to support them - and their families - in navigating these challenges.
Latest briefings
About our education law team
Our education law team specialises in securing the school places and education (as well as health and social care provision) children and young people need, and challenges injustice faced in education.
Our practice was born of Eva’s frustration trying to navigate the complexities of the education system with her youngest son. She was already a lawyer but soon learned that she would need to become an expert in education law to overcome what at times felt like insurmountable challenges.
We have since grown from a one-woman practice to a team of eight and counting. All four of our education lawyers - Eva Akins, Lenka Wall, Erin Smart and Douglas Hamer - are Chambers and Legal 500 ranked. They are supported by our talented paralegals, Zarhine Rajabalee and Max Charman, and skilled executive assistants, Helen Turner and Natalie Byrne. Most of our team are parents, many have lived experience of neurodivergence, and all are passionate about championing the rights of children and empowering parents and the professionals who support them.
Education law team
Our education law team at Russell-Cooke has a deep understanding of the legal intricacies surrounding education and our solicitors stand...
Expert in focus: Erin Smart
Erin Smart is an associate in the education law team. She acts for parents in a range of education law matters, and has expertise in special educational needs, school complaints and exclusions.
Erin recently helped secure a £90,000 school fee reimbursement following serious safeguarding concerns and successfully resolved multiple SEN appeals, including obtaining an EHNA and school placement without the need for a hearing.
Erin has three small children of her own, who keep her very busy when not in the office. She also enjoys a good psychological crime read and family holidays.
This document is not intended to constitute and should not be used as a substitute for legal advice on any specific matter. No liability for the accuracy of the content of this document, or the consequences of relying on it, is assumed by the author.
Get in touch
If you seek further information, please contact a member of the team you can contact our education law solicitors on +44 (0)20 3826 7528 or complete our enquiry form.
