Flexible Procurement Agreement for the Adult Skills Framework

Tender description

A devolution deal was agreed between ministers and local leaders across the North East in December 2022 to provide the area with new powers and funding to increase opportunities and living standards through inclusive growth and productivity improvements. It is anticipated that the devolution deal will result in the creation of a new North East Mayoral Combined Authority (NEMCA) covering County Durham, Gateshead, Newcastle, North Tyneside, Northumberland, South Tyneside, and Sunderland. NEMCA will have the power to make decisions on areas such as transport, skills, housing, finance, and economic development. Local leaders have worked together to negotiate an offer which matches their ambition to make a difference for residents, communities, and the economy. The funding for adult skills provides the opportunity to join up the region's skills and training offer, reduce duplication and make sure we are reaching those communities most disadvantaged. To achieve this, we are launching an Adult Skills Flexible Procurement Framework and inviting a wide range of organisations and providers of skills including futher education colleges, independent training organisations, Voluntary and Community Sector Organisations (VCSE) organisations and other stakeholders, including employer providers, to tender for a place on the Framework. It is anticipated that, from May 2024, NEMCA will be operational and the successor body to the North of Tyne Combined Authority (NTCA). In that event, the current intention is that any Framework Agreements entered into between NTCA and the successful providers as a result of this ITT will continue to remain in force for the duration of their contractual terms, acknowledging that NEMCA would be likely to replace NTCA as the contracting authority from May 2024. It is also currently anticipated that NEMCA will operate any procedure (direct award or mini competition) for award of orders for services during the Term of the Flexible Procurement Agreement and therefore that than any contracts awarded as a result of such procedures will be entered into between the respective successful providers and NEMCA. This Procurement is issued by North Tyneside Council on behalf of The North of Tyne Combined Authority (referred to in this document as “NTCA”; the “Authority”; and “we”). The current intention is that any Framework Agreements entered into between NTCA and the successful providers as result of this ITT will continue to remain in force for the duration of their contractual terms, acknowledging that NEMCA would be likely to replace NTCA as the contracting authority from May 2024. https://procontract.due-north.com/Advert?advertId=7e390873-5485-ee11-8125-005056b64545&p=1c9e782c-541e-e611-8114-000c29c9ba21 Lot 1: Devolved Adult Education The principal purpose of the devolved AEB is to engage adults aged 19+ and provide them with the skills needed for entering and sustaining work, an apprenticeship/traineeship, or other further learning. It provides funding for programmes of learning up to Level 2 (GCSE level equivalent) and some Level 3 qualifications for individuals aged 19-23. It does not fund all Level 3 learning as this is delivered through Free Courses for Jobs or Advanced Learner Loans, or programmes at Level 4 and above which are also funded through Advanced Learner Loans or Higher Education (HE) funding. The Minimum contract value for this lot is £75,000 and Maximum £750,000 Lot 2: Free Courses for Jobs Level 3 Adult Offer The Free Courses for Jobs Level 3 Adult Offer is designed to help adults to gain the skills that are sought by employers. This will help them improve their job prospects and support economic recovery. Funding in Lot 2 is available for Free Courses for Jobs provision to support adults to gain free fully funded Level 3 qualifications that are part of the national approved adult offer. This offer includes around 400 Level 3 qualifications in 20 different sector subject areas (SSA). Combined Authority officers, in consultation with providers will monitor qualifications on the approved list to ensure that they meet the needs of the region’s growth/recovery sectors for delivery The minimum contract value for this lot is £75,000 and maximum is £750,000 Lot 3: Skills Bootcamps Skills Bootcamps are intensive, Level 3-5 or equivalent flexible training courses up to 16 weeks, with a guaranteed job interview (in the case of a new job), which equip adults with technical skills that enable them to access in-demand jobs, apprenticeships, new opportunities, and an increased level of income over time (including for the self-employed). Provision in this Lot should be open to residents of the relevant areas aged 19 or over who are full-time or part-time employed, self-employed, unemployed (i.e. not in work), as well as adults returning to work after a break. Minimum contract value for this lot is £75,000 and maximum is £750,000