Changes to the HR1 form: what schools need to know

What is the HR1 form and when is it needed?

Schools must notify the Secretary of State using the HR1 form when proposing to dismiss 20 or more employees as redundant within a 90-day period at a single establishment. The timing of submission depends on the number of proposed dismissals. Failing to submit the form can have significant consequences for an employer.

The definition of ‘redundancy’ for collective consultation purposes is broad. Schools must complete the HR1 form not only for large-scale redundancies and restructure, but also when proposing to dismiss and re-engage 20 or more staff where agreement on contractual changes can’t be reached.

From 1 December 2025, the HR1 process is changing – and it’s important that school business leaders and HR teams understand what this means in practice.

What is changing?

Digital-only form

From 1 December 2025, the HR1 form must be completed digitally. Paper versions will no longer be accepted. It’s hoped this change will result in quicker submissions, streamline reporting and ensure all employers are using the most up-to-date version of the form.

Other changes

Further updates to the new online form include:

• Built-in links to relevant databases (such as Companies House and the Charity Commission) to assist with completion
• Consultation must have already started or begin immediately upon submission – it will not be possible to include future consultation start dates
• Occupational group breakdowns are no longer required, simplifying the data entry process
• A new redundancy reason has been included: “Change in supply chain / loss of supply chain contract”. This gives greater flexibility for schools managing operational change
• Up to 4 attachments can be uploaded with the form.

The form must be completed in one session. If the page is inactive for more than 90 minutes, it will need to be restarted. Schools should make sure they have access to the following information before filling out the form:

• Company number (which can be found on Companies House)
• Nature of the business
• Timing and location of redundancies
• Expected number of redundancies
• Reasons for redundancies
• Trade union and/or employee representative(s) details.

Before submitting the form, schools should save or print the final summary page as they will only be sent an email confirming receipt, not a copy of the answers. This summary will be important when consulting with the appropriate employee representatives. The HR1 form can be found here.

How can schools prepare?

At first glance, these updates may seem minor, but failing to notify the Secretary of State is a criminal offence. A school may be liable on summary conviction to a (potentially unlimited) fine.

Any schools carrying out, or planning to carry out, collective redundancies should be aware of the changes and familiarise themselves with the new form.

We recommend that schools seek legal advice in these circumstances to ensure the process is fair and compliant with their statutory obligations, including the submission of the HR1 form.