HCC Sept 2024 – Framework Agreement for the Provision of Adult and Tailored Learning Services (Step2Skills)

Hertfordshire County Council (hereinafter referred to as the Council), are out to procurement for a Framework Agreement for the Provision of Adult and Tailored Learning Services. Further information regarding this opportunity can be found in II.2.4 and VI.3 below. Organisations wishing to take part in this project are invited to "express interest" which will give access to the full procurement documents in the e-tendering system. Please see VI.3) Additional information for further information. Any questions relating to this procurement must be made via the correspondence area in the e-Tendering system, in accordance with the procurement documents and can be addressed to the main contact as shown in the details above.

Hertfordshire County Council is out to procurement for a Framework Agreement for the Provision of Adult and Tailored Learning Services.As part of Hertfordshire County Council, Step2Skills is the Adult and Tailored Learning service and provides opportunities for adults in Hertfordshire to get involved in learning within the community. They aim to collaborate with people who face barriers to education and employment such as low skills, learning or physical disabilities, and mental health conditions. Step2Skills is looking to establish a Framework Agreement with a number of Subcontractors to provide a range of adult and tailored learning opportunities to target groups within the population of Hertfordshire. Subcontractors awarded onto the Framework Agreement will have the opportunity to bid for the year 1 Call-Off early in 2025.Tenderers must be included in the UK Register of Learning Providers (UKLRP) and have a valid UK Provider Reference Number (UKPRN). Step2Skills has been undertaking an annual Service Needs Analysis to understand priority locations and populations since the adult education service started. This analysis also informs the commissioning process and the evaluation of potential delivery partners in terms of links with target populations, experience of meeting national and local needs whilst also delivering value for money. All delivery must demonstrate value for money, with clear progression routes towards further learning, employment and/or better mental health. Step2Skills and its partners are subject to Ofsted inspections, ensuring compliance with the Further Education and Skills Education Inspection Framework. Full details are in the Specification, Schedule 1 of the Terms and Conditions document.The estimated total value of the Framework Agreement is stated in II.1.5) of this notice and is for the initial term inclusive of the approximate value for extensions. For the avoidance of doubt, the estimated annual spend is approximately £1,500,000. The total value advertised is to cover any additional funding that may be available during the period of the Framework Agreement. The Framework Agreement will be awarded for an initial term of two years, with the option to extend the Framework Agreement up to two further years on an annual basis. Please note that the contract requirements will be subject to available financial resources, supplier performance and flexibility to meet changing demands.Organisations should be aware that due to the nature of the Services provided, any Framework Agreement formed as a result of this procurement process shall be executed as a deed. Organisations should seek independent legal advice on the implications of this prior to submitting their bid, where appropriate. Additional information: Tenderers should be aware that due to the nature of the Services provided, any Framework Agreement formed as a result of this procurement process shall be executed as a deed. Tenderers should seek independent legal advice on the implications of this prior to submitting their Tender, where appropriate.