Buckworths advises EdTech businesses, education technology start-ups, and companies developing products and services for the education sector. EdTech is one of the most regulated areas of technology, with significant obligations around IP, data protection, and content compliance.
We advise on SaaS agreements for educational platforms, software development and licensing agreements, terms and conditions for e-learning courses, and the deployment of Learning Management Systems. We advise on intellectual property ownership for educational content, including copyright in digital textbooks, online courses, and proprietary methodologies.
Data protection is particularly important in EdTech, especially where businesses handle data relating to students or minors. We advise on GDPR compliance, privacy policies, data processing agreements, and cross-border data transfers. We also advise on B2B and B2C contracting for EdTech businesses.
For EdTech businesses seeking investment, we advise on SEIS and EIS, angel and VC funding rounds, and the full investment documentation cycle. We also support exit planning and M&A activity.
Book a free consultation to discuss your EdTech business.
Our Services
- Commercial
- Commercial Property
- Corporate
- Data Protection
- Dispute Resolution
- Employee Incentivisation
- Employment
- Franchising
- Funding
- General Counsel
- Intellectual Property
- Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A)
- Regulatory Services
- Secretarial Services
- Strategy and Business Support
FAQs
EdTech businesses handling student data face heightened data protection obligations, particularly where data relates to children under 18. The ICO's Age Appropriate Design Code applies to online services likely to be accessed by children. Schools and universities also impose their own data protection requirements in contracts. We advise EdTech businesses on the specific GDPR obligations that apply to their products.
IP ownership in EdTech is often complex. The platform technology, the content delivered through it, and any user-generated content may each have different ownership characteristics. Where content is created in partnership with schools, universities, or third-party educators, written agreements specifying IP ownership are essential. We advise EdTech businesses on IP ownership and put the right agreements in place.
Contracts with schools and universities typically need to cover the scope of the licence, data processing obligations, IP ownership of any customised content, liability, GDPR compliance including data processing agreements, and termination provisions. Public sector contracts often include onerous terms that need to be reviewed carefully before signing. We advise EdTech businesses on all aspects of their public sector and institutional contracts.