Equals Trust - Provision of ICT Managed Services Stage 1

This Procurement is being conducted in accordance with the Procurement Act 2023 using the competitive flexible procedure.

1.2.1. The Trust aims to achieve a consistent approach to ICT both for pupils and staff by moving to a Trust-model approach in the provision of ICT Managed Services (“the Service(s)”). This will enable the Trust to maximise the effectiveness of ICT equipment and services, as well as helping to share resources and best practice across all schools.

1.2.2. The Trust has no internal ICT resources and is therefore seeking an ICT Managed Services Provider (“the Supplier”) who will: a) act as the single point of contact for the Trust’s ICT requirements and management of the Trust’s other third-party ICT providers. b) centralise the management of ICT services at Trust level, rather than on an individual school by school basis. c) operate within a centralised Trust operating model, which has a consistent approach across schools. d) deliver cost effective and high-quality technical support, system management and consultancy services. e) provide transparent all-inclusive pricing which allows accurate budgeting over the term of the Contract.

1.2.3. The Supplier shall be: a) experienced in the education sector, mindful of sector constraints and/or Department for Education (DFE) requirements whilst prioritising the needs and interests of pupils in all activities. b) equipped with suitably qualified and technically capable staff, able to perform their roles to the required standard while communicating clearly and effectively with school and Trust staff. c) flexible with respect to future requirements and service options and able to adapt to the changing ICT landscape throughout the life of the contract. d) innovative and demonstrate a shared vision with the Trust regarding future service development. e) able to take a hands-on approach to all the ICT needs of the Trust, including equipment set up, software installations, MFD connections, troubleshooting and repairs to keep the Trust running effectively. f) take a collaborative approach and establish strong working relationships with other providers (e.g. MFDs, software platforms) to ensure seamless, coordinated service delivery across the Trust. g) able to gives staff and students confidence when using the Trust’s ICT resources.