Probationary periods are more than just a formality; they’re a critical opportunity to assess new hires and set the tone for performance, behaviour and culture. For HR professionals, line managers and employers in general, managing probation effectively means protecting the organisation from costly hiring mistakes while supporting employees to succeed from day one.
A well-managed probation period provides structure, clarity and flexibility. It enables you to spot issues early, give meaningful feedback and make informed decisions about whether to confirm, extend or end employment. It also allows you to act swiftly and fairly when someone isn’t the right fit, as long as the process is documented and legally compliant.
With the right tools in place — clear policies, contract clauses, review templates and training — probation becomes a streamlined, confident process. It protects the organisation, empowers managers and gives employees the best chance of success in their new role.
Our probation management toolkit includes the essentials to help you approach probation periods with confidence and in legal compliance.
There are no subscriptions, no platform logins and no unnecessary extras. Just practical, UK-compliant documents you can download, edit and use immediately.
What These Documents Will Do for You
This complete set of probation documents gives HR professionals, line managers and employers the structure, clarity and legal confidence needed to manage new hires effectively, without unnecessary complexity or risk.
Whether you’re confirming employment, extending a probation period or navigating a dismissal, every document in this pack is designed to help you make clear, consistent and compliant decisions. From ready-to-use templates and letters to manager guidance, checklists and review forms, you’ll have everything you need to:
- Set expectations from day one
- Ensure every probation is reviewed properly and on time
- Handle underperformance or concerns lawfully and professionally
- Protect the business from avoidable legal risks
- Support line managers with consistent tools and messaging
- Improve employee onboarding and early-stage retention
- Save time on admin while strengthening your people processes
This isn’t just about paperwork; it’s about giving your team the confidence to manage probation periods properly, protect the business, and create a better experience for every new employee.
Probation toolkit contents
The toolkit includes the following documents:
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Probation policy template |
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Probation policy audit checklist |
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Probation period employment contract clauses |
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Probation review form |
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Probation mid-point review form |
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Line manager probation review preparation form |
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Employee probation review preparation form |
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Probation review invitation letter |
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Probation successful letter |
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Probation extension letter |
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Probation extension due to absence letter |
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Probation unsuccessful letter |
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Termination of employment during probation period letter |
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Probation dispute response letter |
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Probation dismissal risk checklist |
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Probation employee expectations summary |
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Probation training for line managers – content for presentation slides |
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Probation period do’s and don’ts for line managers |
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Probation performance tracker |
Probation toolkit changelog
Version 1.0 – 20 April 2025
