A modern approach to supporting historic institutions
Oxford’s colleges, like our country’s constitution, might be described as having two parts: the dignified and the efficient. Their presence in the city and the community is fundamental, historic, and faintly mystical – exiting residents and visitors alike. Yet these are also serious and carefully managed businesses, with significant responsibilities to staff and students past and present.
Blake Morgan, as a long-established law firm in Oxford, has for many years been a valued partner of several Oxford colleges. By understanding the blend of centuries of tradition with modern challenges, we are able to offer sound advice and practical insight – and our work gives us a unique perspective on the issues and opportunities the colleges face in today’s world.
While each college has its own structures, statutes and historical contexts, there are numerous common challenges they face:
Governance and regulation
Colleges are prominent institutions in the UK and on the world stage, so quite rightly the highest governance and regulatory standards are applied. So, when challenging cases do occur, or when changes need to be made, it is important that this is handled with the utmost sensitivity, rigour and care. Relationships must be maintained and strengthened – such as with the Office for Students, the Charity Commission, and even the Privy Council that advises the Sovereign on any amendments to college’s Royal Charters. The approach has to be grounded in legal knowledge, and based on a good understanding of colleges’ unique identities and values.
Finance and funding
Higher education bodies across the UK face a difficult funding environment, and for colleges the careful management of their assets, estates, trusts and legacies is essential to ensuring their longevity and success. Advice needs to be tailored to ensure financial structuring matches the specific needs of each college, its objectives and situation. Our approach is founded on being astute and straightforward in our advice, breaking down legal and financial complexity to make the choices and options clear – allowing colleges to chart the paths that are right for them.
Real estate and construction
Especially in Oxford and its surrounds – a key part of one of the country’s leading growth and development corridors – management of colleges’ real estate portfolios is a critical element of their long-term success. Investment in complex and ambitious projects can be the decisions that secure the future of colleges for generations to come, and herald unparalleled opportunities for students, researchers and local residents alike. But Oxford is a deeply complicated development market – with heritage and environmental contexts that can pose challenges to projects. Firms like Blake Morgan help to navigate these complexities, supporting clients across procurement, cost strategy, planning and more to help minimise risk and streamline delivery.
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