Simpson Millar has announced the appointment of Polly Kerr as Head of Education and Children’s Rights, marking a key step in the continued expansion of its Education and Childcare Law teams nationwide. The appointment forms part of a broader investment in specialist expertise, reinforcing the firm’s focus on supporting children, young people, and families across the UK.
Polly brings significant experience in education and children’s rights law and is widely recognised for her work across special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), discrimination, school exclusions, safeguarding, and judicial review matters.
In her new role, Polly will lead Simpson Millar’s Education Law practice, advising children, young people, and families on complex education and welfare issues. She will also continue to work with schools and academies, providing guidance on regulatory responsibilities, statutory obligations, and compliance.
Alongside her legal practice, Polly serves as a trustee of SPACE, a charity supporting neurodivergent children, and Neurodiversity in Law, an organisation dedicated to improving inclusion within the legal profession. She was recently named a Lead Associate in Public Law (Education) and Commercial Litigation in The Legal 500 2026.
Commenting on her appointment, Polly said:
“Coming from a family of teachers, I’ve always been passionate about ensuring children’s rights are protected and that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential. This is an especially important time for families of children with SEND, who continue to face significant barriers in securing the support they are entitled to.
”I’m delighted to be joining Simpson Millar at such an exciting time of growth and collaboration across its specialist teams, and I look forward to helping families navigate the challenges they are facing and access the provision their children and young people need.”
In addition to Polly’s appointment, Simpson Millar has further expanded its Education Law team with the recruitment of Kimberley Hircock as a Solicitor in London, continuing the firm’s investment in building a strong, national education and childcare offering.
