Question 1: Define 'employment law' and explain its significance for both employers and employees.

Answer: Employment law is a set of legal rules that govern the relationship between employers and employees. It ensures fair treatment, protects workers' rights, and outlines employers' responsibilities.

Question 2: List three types of employment contracts and briefly describe each one.

Answer: 1. Permanent contract: An ongoing employment relationship with no fixed end date. 2. Fixed-term contract: An employment contract that lasts for a specific period. 3. Part-time contract: An employment arrangement where the employee works fewer hours than full-time staff.

Question 3: Explain the purpose of the Equality Act 2010 in employment law.

Answer: The Equality Act 2010 aims to prevent discrimination in the workplace based on characteristics such as age, gender, race, religion, or disability, ensuring fair treatment for all employees.

Question 4: Describe what is meant by 'minimum wage' and why it is important.

Answer: Minimum wage is the lowest legal hourly pay rate that employers can legally pay workers. It helps to ensure workers are fairly compensated for their work.

Question 5: Identify two rights that employees have under employment law.

Answer: Employees have the right to fair pay and safe working conditions. They also have the right to paid holiday and protection against unfair dismissal.

Question 6: Explain what an employment tribunal is and when an employee might take a case there.

Answer: An employment tribunal is a legal body that resolves disputes between employers and employees, such as unfair dismissal, discrimination, or unpaid wages.

Question 7: Draw a simple diagram to illustrate the typical steps an employee might take if they want to raise a workplace dispute.

Answer: A correct diagram should show: 1. Employee raises issue informally with employer. 2. Formal complaint submitted. 3. Negotiation or mediation. 4. If unresolved, case goes to employment tribunal.

Question 8: Sketch a flowchart outlining the process of terminating employment legally, including notice periods and potential reasons for dismissal.

Answer: A flowchart should include: 1. Employee misconduct or redundancy identified. 2. Employer provides notice according to contract or law. 3. Possible warnings or disciplinary procedures. 4. Termination with or without notice, depending on circumstances. 5. Employee may appeal or seek legal advice.

Question 9: Discuss the importance of anti-discrimination laws for creating a fair workplace environment.

Answer: Anti-discrimination laws promote equality by preventing unfair treatment based on personal characteristics, leading to a more inclusive, productive, and respectful workplace.