Independent Governance Professionals supporting fair and lawful school Hearings.

About us

At Clerks of London, we specialise in providing impartial procedural support for Hearings, Appeals and Independent Review Panels.

Our Governance Professionals ensure that each process is conducted fairly, lawfully and with respect for all parties involved. We recognise that these processes can be stressful for everyone concerned, and we work calmly and sensitively to manage the practical and procedural demands from start to finish.

We help schools and Trusts meet their statutory duties by coordinating documentation, guiding Panels through complex procedures, and supporting them in reaching fair, well-reasoned decisions.

Permanent Exclusions

A permanent exclusion is one of the most serious decisions a school can make and marks the start of a formal legal process. It is understandably stressful for everyone involved.

Our governance professionals are highly experienced in exclusion procedures and ensure that the process is conducted lawfully, transparently and with respect for all parties. We guide schools, Panels and families through each stage in line with current legislation and Department for Education guidance, supporting clear communication, fair consideration and accurate record-keeping throughout.

 

Formal Panels

Formal Panels are an essential part of ensuring that decisions within schools and Trusts are made fairly, transparently and in accordance with policy and employment law. These Hearings often involve sensitive matters such as grievances, complaints or appeals, and can be challenging for all parties involved.


Our Governance Professionals manage each stage of the process calmly and objectively, ensuring that procedures are followed correctly, documentation is handled securely and Panels are supported to reach fair, well-reasoned outcomes. We bring structure, clarity and reassurance to what can otherwise be a complex and emotive process.

 

Independent Review Panels

Independent Review Panels provide an opportunity for families to request a review of a Governing Board’s decision to uphold a permanent exclusion. These Panels play a vital role in ensuring that exclusion decisions are fair, lawful and procedurally sound.


We provide complete coordination from start to finish, including appointing and supporting the Panel, arranging the SEN Expert where required, and providing an experienced Governance Professional to organise the Hearing. Every aspect of the process is managed in line with statutory guidance to ensure independence, transparency and confidence for all involved.

“Beth’s skills, the advice she gives and the manner in which she provides it all are highly valued by the board. During the judging process we heard multiple examples of where Beth has dealt with challenging circumstances with care and in a manner to affect positive change”.

— Charlotte Harding, Head of National Leaders of Governance Support at NGA

Contact us

Feel free to contact us with any questions.
Email
Info@clerksoflondon.com

Phone
0208 058 0636

Clerks of London Limited
Company No. 16598071
71–75 Shelton Street, Covent Garden, London WC2H 9JQ

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