Dismissals, probation decisions, changes to contracts and “fire
and re-hire” scenarios are where employers are most exposed -
legally, financially, and reputationally. Many issues arise
not because employers act unfairly, but because they act without
understanding the legal framework that underpins these decisions -
an issue made even more challenging with the introduction of the
new Employment Rights Bill.
This session lays the groundwork for the entire masterclass
series, giving you a clear, confident understanding of employment
basics that every employer and manager needs.
What we’ll cover
Dismissals – Getting it Right from the
Start
- Fair vs unfair dismissal: what employers need to know
- Common mistakes that lead to tribunal claims
- Managing risk when ending employment
Probation Periods – Myths, Risks and
Reality
- Why probation does not remove employee rights
- Ending employment during probation lawfully
- Best practice for reviews, extensions and documentation
Fire and Re-Hire – When Change Becomes High
Risk
- What “fire and re-hire” actually means in practice
- Legal and reputational risks for employers
- Lawful alternatives and when this approach should be a last
resort
Contract Variations – Changing Terms Safely
- When and how employers can change pay, hours or duties
- Consultation and consent: what’s required
- Avoiding breach of contract and constructive dismissal
claims
Compensation & Exposure – Understanding the Real
Cost
- What compensation may be awarded in employment claims
- Factors tribunals consider when calculating awards
- How early decisions can dramatically increase or reduce
liability
Who should attend?
- Employers and business owners
- HR and People professionals
- Line managers with hiring or dismissal responsibility
- Operations and senior leadership teams
No prior legal knowledge required.
What you’ll take away
By the end of this session, you will:
- Understand the core legal principles governing key employment
decisions
- Be able to spot risk early and avoid common pitfalls
- Feel more confident handling dismissals, probation and contract
changes
- Know when to proceed - and when to pause and seek advice
Upcoming sessions:
- Family and Flexibility: Flexibile working, new
family rights, sickness changes
- Business Protection: Sexual Harassment,
Protected Disclosures, NDAs
- Working styles: Zero Hours, Agency Workers,
Trade Unions
