Andrew Barrowclough practises within the firm's Education Law Department. Having achieved a first class academic background at school and college Andrew studied Law at Cardiff University and progressed with an honours degree. He then achieved a Commendation at Cardiff Law School (LPC) in his professional examinations.

Recruited immediately from law school in August 2005 as a trainee solicitor at Sinclairslaw, qualified and admitted on to UK roll of solicitors in 2007. Andrew’s determination and enthusiasm in representing the needs of children and students quickly saw him placed within the firm's expanding Education Law Department.

Involved in every aspect of each case to include initial meeting with client, taking of instructions, drafting initial advice, instruction of expert witnesses and collation of evidence. Prepares trial bundles, primes client and witnesses.

Andrew is a highly skilled and experienced advocate and conducts his own trials/ hearings but also experienced in working with specialist counsel. Proficient at studying complex statutes, case law and legal drafting. Has a personable nature and builds a good rapport with clients and colleagues. Andrew has an extremely high success rate, even in complex cases where parents have requested an independent school. Has helped a significant number of clients achieve their desired result and has very positive feedback.

Andrew ensures that he maintains current knowledge of changes in the law, continues with professional development and monitors developing trends in decision making of judicial bodies.

Andrew handles numerous cases throughout the year to include Special Educational Needs cases, admission and exclusion appeals and has represented hundreds of parents through the Tribunal process. He has been involved in a number of important judicial review cases, including matters relating to the social care of children and their families.

Andrew hugely enjoys his work with Sinclairslaw and finds it particularly rewarding securing appropriate support for disabled children and poorly treated university students. Client’s written feedback regarding Andrew’s work includes the following:

• “Many thanks for all your patience, clarity and sustained effort. There are two boys who will stand a chance because of all your work and effort.” (Mr and Mrs T)
• “Thank you so much for your help and support during Jack’s tribunal- we really couldn’t have done it without you.” (Mr and Mrs F)
• “We’d like to thank you for all you did… we were banging our heads against a brick wall until you got involved, if it wasn’t for you X would never be getting the support he so badly needed.” (Ms M)
• “I like my new school thank you very much” (L)

Andrew works closely with a number of specialist independent schools throughout England and Wales to include Shapwick School, Maple Hayes Hall School, Sunfield School, Alderwasley Hall School and Stanbridge Earls School. This close working ensures that parental evidence is properly prepared for the potential tribunal appeal.

When not in the office Andrew enjoys reading, cinema, squash, swimming and tennis.

If you wish to e-mail him, send your enquiry to education@sinclairslaw.co.uk