Scope
Reference
25-595
Description
The University of Portsmouth is seeking to appoint a supplier under a licensing arrangement to provide SQE1 and SQE2 preparation services, including teaching and learning materials and academic tutor support, to support learners in preparing for and succeeding in the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE).
The services shall include comprehensive SQE1 and SQE2 learning materials, structured to support independent and guided study, together with dedicated academic tutor support for SQE1 and SQE2 candidates. The provision shall include assessment-focused materials designed to simulate SQE assessment formats and conditions, together with the provision of formative and diagnostic feedback tailored to individual learner performance.
The learning materials and tutor support will be embedded within modules delivered as part of the University of Portsmouth's LLM Professional Legal Practice programme. Delivery will be complemented by academic and pastoral support provided by University of Portsmouth staff.
There is a possibility of inclusion of part time courses being offered during the contract term depending on uptake.
Total value (estimated)
- £600,000 excluding VAT
- £720,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 1 May 2026 to 30 September 2028
- Possible extension to 30 September 2030
- 4 years, 5 months
Description of possible extension:
Extensions can be used on a 1+1 basis for continuation of provision
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 80300000 - Higher education services
- 80420000 - E-learning services
- 80430000 - Adult-education services at university level
- 80510000 - Specialist training services
- 80530000 - Vocational training services
- 80590000 - Tutorial services
Contract locations
- UKJ31 - Portsmouth
Participation
Legal and financial capacity conditions of participation
All suppliers must be registered on the Central Digital Platform.
Particular suitability
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
Submission
Enquiry deadline
23 February 2026, 5:00pm
Tender submission deadline
6 March 2026, 2:00pm
Submission address and any special instructions
https://in-tendhost.co.uk/he/aspx/Home
Suppliers will need to register on the In Tend portal to submit a tender response.
Tenders may be submitted electronically
Yes
Languages that may be used for submission
English
Award decision date (estimated)
1 April 2026
Award criteria
| Name | Description | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Price per Quality Point | Price is not the only award criteria - suppliers will need to complete qualitative questions in evaluation. |
Price |
Weighting description
The Evaluation process will be based on a price per quality point evaluation model, full details are available on the published tender documentation.
Other information
Description of risks to contract performance
The contract is for the introduction of SQE 1 & 2 supplementary management and support being offered from the University from 2026, the contract value has been based on forecast of numbers of students. Uptake may be greater than expected and therefore the contract value may increase throughout the term.
Conflicts assessment prepared/revised
Yes
Procedure
Procedure type
Open procedure
Special regime
Light touch
Contracting authority
University of Portsmouth Higher Education Corporation
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PWYV-2655-NPMQ
University House
Portsmouth
PO1 2UP
United Kingdom
Email: procurement@port.ac.uk
Website: http://www.port.ac.uk/
Region: UKJ31 - Portsmouth
Organisation type: Public authority - sub-central government