Who it's for
- Employers taking on new staff who want a documented probation process
- Managers who need to extend probation or end employment during it
- HR teams updating probation policies before January 2027
What's included
- Document 1 — Probationary period policy (9 sections)
- Document 2 — Probation review record for week 4, week 8 and final reviews
- Document 3 — Probation confirmation letter
- Document 4 — Probation extension letter
- Document 5 — Probation outcome meeting invitation
- Document 6 — Dismissal during probation letter
Key points covered
- Designed around the 6-month qualifying period for ordinary unfair dismissal expected from 1 January 2027
- Suggests keeping probation, including any extension, within 5 months so decisions come before the 6-month point
- Right to be accompanied at the outcome meeting, and a right of appeal
- Reminds you that day-one rights (such as discrimination and whistleblowing) apply whatever the length of service
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Read the guide
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Questions
Why does the 6-month point matter?
From 1 January 2027, employees are expected to gain ordinary unfair dismissal protection after 6 months' service instead of 2 years. Probation decisions made later need a fair reason and a fair process.
How long should probation be?
The policy suggests 3 months, with any extension keeping the total within 5 months.
Does an employee on probation have a right to be accompanied?
The pack gives a right to be accompanied at the outcome meeting and a right of appeal, which is good practice.
Does it replace my employment contract?
No. It works alongside the contract. The Employment Contract Template is sold separately.
Probationary Period Pack
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