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6 key rules to remember when restructuring staff

Reorganising school staff is different to restructuring in other organisations. Governors don't manage this process, but read the key rules and requirements here so you can support your headteacher effectively.

Last reviewed on 6 June 2025See updates
School types: All•School phases: All•Ref: 34892
Contents
  1. There are required roles in schools
  2. Staff terms and conditions may be nationally set
  3. Equality law applies to schools
  4. You must consult staff and unions in some circumstances
  5. You must follow rules on pay
  6. Responsibility for dismissal varies by school type

This article covers the main parts of law and school-specific information that will help you support your headteacher through the restructuring process.

It's important to remember that it's not an exhaustive list of everything to take into account when restructuring school staff.

There are required roles in schools

Read the list of the roles schools must have in place.

Early years: there are also ratios of pupils to staff that your school must follow. See pages 28 to 32 of the Early Years Foundation Stage framework (EYFS).

Your senior leaders will advise you on these. 

Staff terms and conditions may be nationally set

Your school's staff may be employed under certain terms and conditions, so you must check these allow the changes you and your headteacher want to make.

Document Explanation Applies to STPCD School Teachers’ Pay and Conditions Document. Sets out the statutory requirements on areas including pay ranges