A normal probationary period is 3 months, yes. But in England at least an employee can be fired for gross misconduct within the first year of employment and wil

A normal probationary period is 3 months, yes. But in England at least an employee can be fired for gross misconduct within the first year of employment and will not be legally allowed to challenge it (certain exceptions involving discrimination and health & safety notwithstanding). So an employer can pretty much get rid of anyone in their first year of employment - they just take it through gross misconduct and the employee can't fight it. I think it's different in Scotland, though.