Question 1: Define 'employment contract' and explain its importance for both employers and employees.

Answer: An employment contract is a legal agreement between an employer and employee that sets out the terms and conditions of employment. It is important because it clearly outlines rights, responsibilities, pay, and working conditions, helping to prevent disputes.

Question 2: Describe two rights that employees have under UK employment law.

Answer: Employees have the right to a minimum wage and protection against unfair dismissal. They are also entitled to paid holiday leave and protection from discrimination.

Question 3: Explain what is meant by 'discrimination' in the workplace and give an example.

Answer: Discrimination in the workplace refers to unfair treatment of employees based on characteristics such as age, gender, race, or religion. For example, refusing to hire someone because of their ethnicity is discrimination.

Question 4: List three reasons why a business might need to conduct a disciplinary hearing with an employee.

Answer: Reasons include suspected misconduct, poor performance, or breach of company policies.

Question 5: Describe the process an employer must follow when dismissing an employee fairly.

Answer: The employer should conduct a fair investigation, inform the employee of the reasons, give them a chance to respond, and follow a fair disciplinary procedure. Dismissal must be for a valid reason and in accordance with employment law.

Question 6: What is the purpose of a redundancy process, and what are some key steps involved?

Answer: Redundancy aims to reduce workforce due to business needs. Key steps include consulting employees, selecting employees fairly, and providing redundancy payments or support for re-employment.

Question 7: Draw a simple flowchart outlining the steps an employer should take from identifying the need for redundancy to completing the process.

Answer: The flowchart should include: 1. Identify need for redundancy, 2. Consult employees, 3. Select employees fairly, 4. Offer alternatives, 5. Final decision, 6. Provide redundancy pay, 7. Support for re-employment.

Question 8: Sketch a poster that could be used by a business to inform employees about their rights under employment law.

Answer: A clear poster with headings such as 'Your Employment Rights', including points on minimum wage, holiday entitlement, anti-discrimination laws, and health and safety. Use bullet points and bold headings for clarity.

Question 9: Explain the difference between 'gross pay' and 'net pay'.

Answer: 'Gross pay' is the total amount earned before deductions, while 'net pay' is the amount received after deductions such as tax and national insurance.

Question 10: Identify and explain one law that protects pregnant employees in the workplace.

Answer: The Equality Act 2010 protects pregnant employees from discrimination. It ensures they cannot be treated unfairly or dismissed because they are pregnant.