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Future Heads of Education Programme

Training

The task of being an independent school Head has never been more challenging, with leaders facing unprecedented legal, regulatory, and reputational complexities.

Mishcon de Reya is offering independent schools a unique opportunity to prepare their aspiring future leaders through a dedicated programme delivered by our specialist education lawyers, designed specifically to equip Deputy Heads with the essential legal knowledge and leadership skills needed for successful Headship.

Modern school leadership requires sophisticated understanding of complex legal frameworks alongside traditional educational leadership skills. Our programme addresses this gap by combining legal expertise with practical case studies from real independent school scenarios, ensuring participants can immediately apply their learning in their current roles.
 

The curriculum

The curriculum covers the essential areas every future Head needs to master, covering the following modules over the course of six months. These will be delivered through a mix of online webinars for your convenience, and in-person events at our Central London office. Our course therefore provides the unmatched opportunity to network with peers and legal experts.

Meet our Education team

We have a long history of guiding individuals and institutions on education matters. As trusted advisers, we expertly steer and support our clients to navigate legal issues within the education landscape.

SESSION 1 - IN PERSON

Employment law 101 and dealing with complaints and investigations

When: Tuesday 20 January 2026
Time: 09:00 - 12:30 GMT

Presented by: Will Winch, Robert Lewis and Alexandra Agnew

Employment law governs the relationship between schools and their staff, covering contracts, working conditions, and rights, and complaints and investigations from parents, pupils, or staff are common, so clear procedures are needed to handle issues fairly, protect the school’s reputation, and meet legal requirements.

SESSION 2 - ONLINE

Disabilities, vulnerabilities and challenging behaviour

When: Tuesday 10 February 2026
Time: 16:00 - 17:30 GMT

Presented by: Sinead Haysom and Robert Lewis

Supporting pupils with disabilities or vulnerabilities is a legal and ethical responsibility for all schools. School leaders must understand how to make reasonable adjustments and manage challenging behaviour in line with statutory guidance, safeguarding all pupils.

SESSION 3 - ONLINE

Data protection law

When: Tuesday 17 March 2026
Time: 16:00 - 17:30 GMT

Presented by: Jon Baines

Data protection law regulates how schools collect, store, and use personal information about pupils, staff, and families. School leaders must ensure compliance with UK GDPR to protect privacy, prevent data breaches, and uphold the trust of their community.

SESSION 4 - ONLINE

Charity law

When: Tuesday 21 April 2026
Time: 16:00 - 17:30 BST

Presented by: Chris Willis Pickup

Charity law sets out the governance and reporting requirements for independent schools that are registered charities. Understanding these rules is essential for school leaders to maintain charitable status and operate transparently and effectively.

SESSION 5 - ONLINE

Understanding school finances and reading balance sheets

When: Tuesday 19 May 2026
Time: 16:00 - 17:30 BST

Presenters to be announced.

Financial management is central to the sustainability of independent schools, requiring careful oversight of budgets and resources. School leaders must be able to read and interpret balance sheets to make informed decisions and ensure financial accountability.

SESSION 6 - IN PERSON

Interactive session on crisis management

When: Thursday 18 June 2026
Time: 13:30 - 17:00 BST

Presented by: Hazel Brayden and Robert Lewis

This interactive session will be designed to help you consolidate and apply everything you’ve learnt throughout the course, ensuring you leave with practical skills and confidence.

Apply for our Future Heads of Education programme

We invite nominations of Deputy Heads or equivalent senior leaders who are being prepared for future leadership roles. Places are limited to ensure quality interaction and networking opportunities. Cost per participant is £500 (excluding VAT).

book shelf

Curriculum leads

Robert Lewis

Partner

Will Winch

Partner, Knowledge Lawyer

Chris Willis Pickup

Partner, Head of Charities and Social Ventures

Jon Baines

Senior Data Protection Specialist (non-lawyer)

Hazel Brayden

Managing Associate

Alexandra Agnew

Managing Associate

Sinead Haysom

Associate

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