Local scheme conditions of service

Performance, appraisal and probation

Performance and development appraisal

This policy does not apply to non-teaching staff in schools.

All employees have annual performance and development appraisals, with regular one to one discussions.

At the end of the appraisal year, all appraisal reviews will include a discussion of the employee's performance.

Probationary periods

All new employees are subject to a six-month probationary period before an appointment is confirmed.  This may be ended earlier or extended following discussion with the manager and employee concerned.  The following staff follow a different timeframe:

  • newly qualified social workers
  • qualified practitioners in children's services and adult care

All new employees will be set objectives in their initial performance and development appraisal.  Managers will monitor these objectives over the first six months through the probation policy

Increments will only be payable to new starters once they have had:

  • at least six months in post
  • a successful probation or performance and development appraisal review

To terminate employment during the probationary period, we or the employee must give one month’s notice in writing.

The appointing one point below guidance shows probation arrangements for employees appointed under this policy.