Solicitor - Education Law Unit

Job Description

Are you passionate about advocating for children's rights and tackling discrimination within the education system? Govan Law Centre’s Education Law Unit (ELU) is seeking a dedicated and experienced solicitor to join the team. This full-time role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact, with job-share options available for the right candidates.

About Us

The ELU represents children and young people across Scotland who face challenges due to Additional Support Needs (ASN). We fight for fair treatment and work tirelessly to secure suitable educational provisions for those who have been marginalised or discriminated against. Our work often involves complex cases where legal expertise can change lives.

Our Policy and Strategic Litigation project collaborates closely with the Scottish Government and key advocacy groups to shape and implement impactful legislation. ELU members actively participate in national forums, ensuring that the voices of our client group are heard and that critical issues are addressed.

Currently, our Education Law Unit delivers the Let’s Talk ASN Scotland project - an initiative that provides legal representation to families of children with ASN. Through this project, we assist parents and carers in navigating the often-complex processes of securing appropriate educational support. GLC were recently awarded a 3-year contract to continue providing this service. You will be joining a progressive community law centre committed to expanding these nationally recognised projects.

Why Join Us?

At Govan Law Centre, you’ll be part of a team that values justice, compassion, and community. We offer a supportive environment where your contributions will directly affect the lives of vulnerable individuals across Scotland. If you are driven by a commitment to social justice and have the legal expertise to make a difference, we encourage you to apply.

The Role

This role is ideal for a solicitor with experience in court and tribunal advocacy, particularly in cases involving education law and discrimination. Although such experience is desirable, it is not essential as full training will be provided to the successful candidate(s). Based in Govan, Orkney Street, the position will require some travel within Scotland, but GLC offers a blended working model with flexible home/remote working options available.

Key Responsibilities

Advocacy & Representation: Provide expert legal representation for children, young people, and their families at tribunals and court hearings, focusing on additional support needs and discrimination.

Advice & Support: Offer comprehensive legal advice and support to pupils and their parents, through various communication channels including telephone, email, and in-person consultations.

Training & Development: Deliver training sessions aligned with ELU’s strategic objectives, enhancing awareness and understanding of education law issues among stakeholders.

Policy Influence: Contribute to our policy work by identifying and addressing systemic issues within the education system, helping to drive meaningful legislative change.

Teamwork: Work as part of the legal and casework team to advocate for children’s rights within the education system.

Person Specification

Essential:

Degree in Scots law

Diploma in Legal Practice

Full Law Society of Scotland practicing certificate

Strong communication and presentation skills

Excellent research and analytical abilities

Ability to work efficiently with minimum supervision and meet deadlines

Genuine commitment to children's rights and social justice

Desirable:

Experience with issues related to discrimination in education

Background in working directly with children and young people

Notes

If you believe you have the skills and passion to excel in this role, please submit your CV along with a cover letter detailing your suitability and motivation for the position to Andrew Fyffe, Govan Law Centre, Orkney Street Enterprise Centre, 18-20 Orkney Street, Glasgow G51 2BX or by e-mail to afyffe@govanlc.com by 12 NOON ON MONDAY 18TH AUGUST 2025. Any applications received after the deadline will not be considered.