ERA Update Briefing - Fixed Term Contracts in Schools - Managing Risk in a Changing Landscape

Who is it for?

Designed for school leaders, this session will support you in understanding how to use FTCs confidently and compliantly, ensuring decisions are fair, defensible, and aligned with evolving employment law expectations. 

Briefing Overview

In light of the changes under the Employment Rights Act 2025, the use of fixed-term contracts (FTCs) in schools will require far greater scrutiny and care. With the reduction in the unfair dismissal qualifying period from 2 years to 6 months, the point at which employees gain protection is brought forward significantly — increasing the potential for challenge where FTCs are not managed appropriately. 

This session will outline the relevant legislative framework, including the treatment of non-renewal as a dismissal, and how FTCs interact with existing obligations under the Fixed-term Employees (Prevention of Less Favourable Treatment) Regulations 2002. 

We will explore how these changes alter the risk profile for schools, particularly where fixed-term arrangements are used without clear justification, or where end-of-contract decisions are not supported by a fair and proportionate process. 

The session will also highlight the practical implications for schools, including the need for: 

• Clear and evidenced rationale for the use of FTCs  

• Effective review and oversight during the contract period  

• Appropriate consultation and process ahead of contract end dates  

Date and Time

• Wednesday 20th May 2026 at 3.45pm – 4.30pm

Cost

The cost of this briefing is £30 plus VAT per person for Employment Law and HR Clients and £45 plus VAT per person for non - Employment Law and HR Clients.

How to book

Click the BOOK NOW button.  If you have any questions about this course please contact us via phone 0345 548 7000 (opt 1, then 2) or email: hrtraining@judicium.com.