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How to end a fixed-term contract

Read advice on ending fixed-term contracts, including how to make sure your reasons for ending the contract are fair, and what to do if you want to end a contract early.

Last reviewed on 22 April 2026
School types: All•School phases: All•Ref: 4512
Contents
  1. Ending the contract must be fair 
  2. Consult with staff near the end of their contract
  3. The employee may have redundancy rights
  4. Ending a contract early
  5. If the fixed-term position becomes permanent

Ending the contract must be fair 

Fixed-term contracts don’t typically need a notice period, because they usually end automatically on the agreed end date.

Employees have additional rights if they have:

  • 1 year (or more) service – you must provide a written statement of reasons for not renewing the contract
  • 2 or more years’ service – you must show there's a fair reason for not renewing the contract (e.g. a permanent staff member returning to a covered post). These employees may also have redundancy rights (explained below)
  • 4 consecutive years' service – you must offer staff a permanent position unless a fixed-term contract remains justifiable. You should notify staff of any permanent vacancies, to ensure equal career progression

Read more in the government's guidance on fixed-term contracts.

Ending a fixed-term contract is classed as dismissal

If you decide not to renew