Education

Debt recovery solicitors for schools and education

We act for a large number of independent schools and colleges across the UK and internationally, recovering unpaid school tuition fees, unpaid fees in lieu of notice, and ancillary charges.

Debt recovery solicitors for schools and education¶

At Harwood & Co we are specialist debt recovery solicitors for schools and the education sector. We act for a large number of independent schools and colleges across England, in relation to recovering unpaid school tuition fees, unpaid fees in lieu of notice, and ancillary charges.

With many years of extensive experience, our firm has a proven track record of successfully assisting independent schools in recovering unpaid school fees. We understand the financial pressures that unpaid fees can place on educational institutions and provide tailored, strategic solutions to ensure swift and effective recovery.

Our debt recovery solicitors and their expert team offer a professional yet sensitive approach, balancing firm legal action with a focus on maintaining positive relationships between schools and families. Whether dealing with complex disputes, or straightforward claims, we are committed to protecting your school's financial stability while upholding its reputation.

Solicitors for education - recovering unpaid school fees¶

The cost-of-living crisis, coupled with the long-lasting impact of the pandemic, has negatively impacted the finances of many people. This has had a direct effect on independent education institutions, who are reliant on the payment of their fees to continue to provide their services. It remains to be seen how the impact of the change in VAT regulations will impact parents' ability to pay school fees.

We also understand that, due to their charitable status, most independent schools are under a positive obligation to recover unpaid debts.

Many parents have been faced with the difficult decision of withdrawing their children from independent schools, often without giving the requisite amount of notice, leaving unpaid fees owing in lieu of notice.

Harwood & Co can assist independent schools in navigating the difficulties faced as a result of unpaid fees, by using our wealth of knowledge and experience in the field of debt recovery. Often, fees can be recovered or settled at a pre-action stage. However, if payment is not forthcoming, we can advise on the possibility of issuing County Court or insolvency proceedings.

We take a proactive and strategic approach, working closely with bursars and finance managers to ensure a smooth and efficient recovery process. Our team builds strong, long-term relationships with school finance teams, offering clear guidance and expert support at every stage. When necessary, we also liaise with governors to provide clarity on the legal process and ensure informed decision-making.

The vast majority of claims we bring for schools to recover unpaid fees are resolved without dispute, or the need to attend a final hearing. When court is required, we enjoy unparalleled success rates.

With a proven track record of success, we help schools safeguard their financial stability while maintaining professionalism and integrity. Whether you require pre-litigation advice, formal legal proceedings, or enforcement of judgments, we provide tailored solutions that deliver results. Contact us today to discuss how we can support your school in securing the fees it is rightfully owed.

What our clients say

Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward

Harwood & Co are friendly and approachable, and I feel I can always pick up the phone if I need some advice - Denise Martin

Wilson & Co

After 15 years of using Harwood & Co for debt recovery and more complex litigation, I highly endorse their services - David Wilson

Redwood Collections

We have complete trust that any client who chooses to engage with Harwood & Co will be looked after with professionalism and integrity, and can expect the best possible outcome - Stuart North

EDUCATION

FAQs ¶

Find answers to some of our most frequently asked questions below. If your question is not answered in our FAQs, please get in touch with our team by filling out the enquiry form on our contact page or calling us on 0113 245 7027.

Can legal action be taken against parents when the child is still attending the school? ¶
Usually there is nothing to preclude a school from taking legal action against the parents whilst the child is still in attendance. However, this would depend on the terms and conditions incorporated into the agreement. Our specialist debt recovery solicitors and their teams can advise on this.
Do allegations of bullying and other pastoral complaints prohibit recovery of fees? ¶
Any such allegations would not prohibit any recovery action being taken, but Harwood & Co would advise on the merits of any such arguments and complaints on a case-by-case basis.
Can I recover the costs that incur? ¶
Most schools have robust terms and conditions that will include an indemnity from the parents to reimburse the school for fees incurred if the parents are in breach of contract. We will always look to recover costs from parents as part of any claim, but costs are always at the discretion of the court.

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Meet the team

Chelsea Harrison

Solicitor

Cyrielle Lacaille

Associate (Chartered Legal Executive)

Gareth Allen

Head of Client Relations

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Submit a new claim ¶

Please fill in this form with as much detail as possible. You will then be contacted by a member of our team who will review your submission, set out proposed next steps, and provide a cost estimate for them. Alternatively, you can call us on 0113 245 7027.