A South Essex law firm has successfully completed the high profile transfer of a school to a multi-academy trust.
Palmers Solicitors, which has offices in Basildon, Thurrock and South Woodham Ferrers, acted for The Stanford and Corringham Schools Trust on its acquisition of the Hassenbrook Academy, a secondary school, based in Stanford le Hope.
The transaction was led by Partner BJ Chong, who dealt with the transfer of the academy, liaised with the Department for Education and co-ordinated the production and negotiation of the relevant Funding Agreements.
Palmers Partner and Head of Property, Carey Jacobs, acted for the Trust in the acquisition of the land assets.
BJ Chong said: “We’re proud to have completed a high profile transfer for a forward-thinking Multi Academy Trust successfully and in accordance with the strict timetable set out by the client.
“This meant that Hassenbrook was under the wing of The Stanford and Corringham Schools Trust by the start of the new academic year.”
Dr Sophina Asong, the CEO of The Stanford and Corringham Schools Trust, added: “This acquisition was of strategic importance for the Trust in furthering its goal of providing first class education to the children of Stanford le Hope, Corringham and beyond.
“Completion of the transfer was dictated by term times, and as a result missing any deadline was not an option for us. Matt and Carey provided the trust with excellent support throughout the process, and dealt with requirements of the Department of Education on our behalf.
“In the end, the transfer completed on time, and the Trust was delighted with the support that it received.”