Adam Wagner successfully represented 24 teachers who claimed unfair dismissal and failure to consult in relation to their dismissals from an independent school. Peterborough and St Margaret’s School in Stanmore, North London, closed in 2013 leading to most of its staff losing their jobs.

Following a 5-day hearing in July, the Employment Tribunal in Watford ruled that the teachers had been denied their right under statute to be consulted prior to being made redundant. The teachers were awarded the maximum ‘protective award’ of 90 days pay (amounting to around £160,000). Findings of unfair dismissal were made in respect of all of the claimants who raised it.

The Tribunal concluded that no consultation had been carried out prior to dismissal decisions being taken, contrary to the school’s legal requirements under the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992. The supposed ‘consultation’ had in fact been “meaningless and a sham”. There had been a “reckless failure” by trustees of the school to consult relevant legal experts.

Adam was instructed by five teaching unions: ASCL, ATL, NASUWT, NUT and Voice.