Redundancy policy: guidance and examples

Find out how to develop your selection criteria for your redundancy policy. Plus see example policies from schools.

Last reviewed on 17 April 2026
School types: AllSchool phases: AllRef: 43999
Contents
  1. Choose your selection criteria and evidence
  2. Avoid discrimination
  3. Consult with staff and unions
  4. See example policies

This article is based on the Acas guidance from on redundancies, and advice from our associate HR expert, Fiona Barker.

Choose your selection criteria and evidence

Your criteria should be as 'objective' and 'measurable' as possible. This means they should be:

  • Fair
  • Based on facts that can be measured
  • Not affected by personal opinions

You should also decide how the selection criteria will be applied – e.g. if it will be applied across the whole school/trust, or only to departments or phases.

Standard of work or performance – you'll need accurate records, such as performance management review progress Skills, qualifications or expertise – you could have a list of relevant skills and qualifications, such as specialist skills or attendance at relevant training courses Relevant experience – such as experience of leading a team or running training sessions Attendance and disciplinary records – these