This course is designed for anyone who will be undertaking Probationary Reviews as part of their job role, including team leaders, Managers, CEO’s in any profession and GP / other professional Partners within the United Kingdom.
Probationary Reviews: A Manager’s Guide to Fair and Effective Staff Assessment
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- Average time to complete: 1 hour
- 100% online
- Downloadable course content included
- Free CPD-accredited certificate to evidence professional development
Recruitment doesn’t end when someone accepts the job. The probation period is where expectations are tested, relationships develop and managers begin to understand whether a new employee is the right fit for the role. By the time a probationary review takes place, there should be enough evidence to make an informed decision, but only if the review itself is planned and carried out properly.
This CPD-accredited online probationary review course looks at the process from a manager’s perspective. Rather than focusing on theory alone, it explains how to prepare for probation review meetings, ask the right questions, assess performance fairly and make decisions that are consistent, well documented and supported by evidence.
Why this course matters
- Helps managers conduct fair, consistent and well-structured probationary reviews
- Supports evidence-based decisions about confirming, extending or ending a probation period
- Encourages open conversations that identify strengths, address concerns and support employee development
- Reduces the risk of inconsistent decision-making by following a clear and structured review process
- Reinforces the importance of accurate documentation and compliance with workplace policies
- Builds confidence when managing challenging probation review meetings
- Helps create a positive onboarding experience that supports employee retention and long-term success
What you will learn
- Understand the purpose of probationary reviews and why they matter
- Prepare effectively for probation review meetings
- Conduct fair, structured and constructive review discussions
- Assess employee performance using objective evidence
- Understand the legal framework and compliance considerations
- Make informed decisions to confirm, extend or end a probation period
- Avoid common mistakes that can undermine the probation process
- Apply a practical framework to future probationary reviews
Who this course is for
This online probationary review course is designed for anyone responsible for managing employees during their probation period, including:
- Team leaders
- Supervisors
- Line managers
- Practice managers
- HR managers
- Business owners
- GP partners
The principles covered can be applied across a wide range of sectors and are suitable for both new and experienced managers.
Learning outcomes
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Explain the purpose of a probationary review
- Prepare confidently for probation review meetings
- Conduct structured, fair and constructive review discussions
- Assess performance against agreed expectations and objectives
- Understand the legal and organisational considerations surrounding probation
- Make informed decisions based on evidence rather than assumption
- Record outcomes clearly and agree appropriate next steps
- Use a practical checklist to support future probationary reviews
Full course description
Understanding the probation period
The probation period is about more than deciding whether a new employee is the right fit. It’s an opportunity to review performance, discuss progress, identify any concerns and provide the support needed to help employees succeed. This section explores the purpose of probationary reviews and why they are an important part of effective people management.
Legal responsibilities
Managers have a responsibility to conduct probationary reviews fairly, consistently and in line with organisational policies. This section introduces the key legal and compliance considerations, helping you understand the importance of following the correct procedures and maintaining accurate records throughout the probation period.
Preparing for the review
Successful probation review meetings begin with good preparation. You’ll learn how to gather evidence, review objectives, consider performance against expectations and prepare for a structured conversation that is balanced, professional and focused on supporting both the employee and the organisation.
Conducting the meeting
The section explores how to lead constructive probationary review discussions that encourage open communication while providing honest, objective feedback. You’ll discover techniques for asking the right questions, managing sensitive conversations and ensuring employees clearly understand both their progress and any areas requiring further development.
Making decisions
Every probationary review should conclude with a clear outcome. Whether confirming employment, extending a probation period or considering alternative outcomes, this section explains how to make fair, evidence-based decisions that are supported by consistent processes and appropriate documentation.
Avoiding common mistakes
This section highlights some of the most common pitfalls, from poor preparation to inconsistent decision-making, and provides practical guidance to help you carry out probationary reviews with greater confidence.
Applying your learning
Throughout the course, you’ll work through realistic workplace scenarios that demonstrate how the principles can be applied in practice. A downloadable checklist and reference guide are also included, giving you a practical framework to support future probationary reviews in your organisation.
Assessment and certification
At the end of the course, you will complete an assessment to demonstrate your understanding. You will need to achieve a result of 80% or higher to pass. On successful completion, you will receive a downloadable certificate.
Professional responsibility and scope
This course is designed to support knowledge and understanding but does not in itself confirm competence.
- Competency should be assessed within your workplace
- Practice should align with local protocols, current guidance, and professional standards
- You are responsible for applying learning appropriately within your role
Average time to complete
Approximately 1 hours, depending on your prior knowledge and experience. The course is fully self-paced, allowing you to complete it in stages. You can revisit any sections that you’re unsure of.
Course Content
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Can I buy this course for someone else?
Yes. To do this, register using their email address and the name they would like to appear on their certificate.
For example, you might know them as Kate, but they may need their certificate issued in their full birth name, Katherine. It’s best to check these details with them first.
Once the purchase is complete, they will receive the automatic course link by email.
Can I complete the course in my own time, and how long do I have to access it?
All of our online courses are self-paced, so you can complete them at a time that suits you. Your progress is saved at the end of each lesson, allowing you to return and continue later.
You will have six months from the date of enrolment to complete the course. After six months, the course will no longer be available.
Some courses, such as Basic Life Support, must be completed annually by clinical staff. A new course will therefore need to be purchased each year to ensure the training reflects the most up-to-date guidance.
Can I access the training material after completing the course?
Yes. The course materials are available to download during your access period, so you can keep a copy for future reference. Your course access will remain active for six months from the date of enrolment, after which the course will no longer be available.
Which payment methods do you accept?
We accept card payments via Stripe. You can pay using a debit or credit card (such as Visa or Mastercard).
When will I get my certificate?
As soon as you have passed the end-of-course assessment and achieved the required pass rate of 80% or more, your certificate will be available to download from the top of the course page.
Do you offer refunds if I no longer need the course?
Refunds may be available if you have not logged into your account.
Once you have logged in, you will have access to the course materials and downloadable content, and a refund will no longer be possible.
What should I do if I can't log into my account?
When registering, please make sure you enter the correct email address, as login issues are often caused by an incorrect email being used. It can help to copy and paste your email address to avoid mistakes.
If you are unable to log in, click ‘Forgotten password’ and follow the instructions to reset your password via the email link sent to you.
If you continue to experience issues, please contact GPHA-training@gphealthcarealliance.co.uk and we will endeavour to respond within two working weeks.
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