Scope
Reference
ITT003
Description
City College Plymouth is looking to source an organisation to carry out subcontract training on their behalf with specific sport courses and S1 Adults' & Children's Care; SS3 Animal Care; S6 IT; S7 Beauty Therapy; S8 Sport, S15 Business in the 25/26 academic year. They are also looking to appoint a subcontractor to work with the college to teach E-Sports.
The ESFA guidance for 2024/25 requires the College to carry out a tendering process prior to the allocation of sub-contracting contracts. This applies to both the study programme, adult provision and traineeships.
City College Plymouth is committed to growing and diversifying the range of programmes and opportunities we deliver to widen participation, deliver to niche markets, engage in new and emerging markets and our contribution to skills needs. In order to achieve this, the College has taken the strategic decision to subcontract part of its provision.
This supports the College's strategy to provide education and training which meets the needs of students and employers.
All subcontracting will be in line with the EFSA requirements and for the purpose of one or more of the following:
a. enhance the opportunities available to young people and adults
b. fill gaps in niche or expert provision, or provide better access to training facilities
c. support better geographical access for learners
d. offer an entry point for disadvantaged groups
e. Support individuals who share protected characteristics, where there might otherwise be gaps
The rationale of the subcontracting is to enhance the quality of our learner offer. We do not offer subcontracts to meet short term funding objectives. We ensure learners receive the best possible education and training. By subcontracting we enhance the opportunities available to learners, we use the subcontractor and their expertise to provide better access to facilities or to fill a gap in expertise or niche or expert provision. It enables learners to have better geographical access to their education and supports all learners who may be disadvantaged enter into education. Subcontracting will support individuals who share particular characteristics where otherwise there are gaps
City College has split the requirement into 3 appropriate lots each with its only specialist requirements,
Providers wishing to apply for this opportunity must have an active UKPRN and must be able to demonstrate successful sub-contract delivery of qualifications and financial standing sufficient to meet the ESFA's expected due diligence standards.
All training must be delivered in full by the contracted training provider, no further sub-contracting of any training is permitted by an appointed subcontractor unless specifically agreed.
The Subcontractor, if awarded the contract, will be responsible for the recruitment of all learners, the delivery of elements of training, the premises and resources required to deliver the training, awarding body accreditation and associated fees.
The successful institution will have a robust and rigorous approach to meeting the administration requirements set out by the college, this will include but not limited to ensuring timetables meet all the demands of the study program and are sufficiently detailed to support colleagues, clear break downs of the components of the study program to support in clear identification of other key parts such as enrichment, personal development and tutorial
KPIs and minimum expectations
Expectations
Have an active UKPRN.
Have a track record of successful delivery, as a Subcontractor, of the qualifications included in its delivery proposal
Be financially stable with a proven track record of good financial performance and a history and status which complies with ESFA expectations for subcontracting.
Comply with the audit requirements as per the most recently published version of the ESFA's AEB funding guidance.
Quality assurance meetings - As per detail in section below.
KPIS
Qualification Achievement rate (QAR) - Overall and timely QAR rates in the academic year of a minimum of 90% or above the national average rate, whichever is higher.
Quality Compliance - 100% of College observed Teaching, Learning and Assessment to be graded as good or better
Learner Progress - 100% of learning plans and reviews completed and submitted on a timely basis
Audit Compliance - 100% documentation accuracy and timeliness of submission, appropriately assessed to meet learner needs.
Customer Satisfaction - For the vast majority of of programmes the College expects student satisfaction to show a minimum of 90% of learners indicating good or better.
Quality assurance activities are specified in the attached documents
The college will keep up to 20% of the allocated AEB and 16-19 funding as a form of management fee as part of any subcontracting award. This will cover college costs for activities not limited to Quality monitoring, subcontractor management, support, any other governance (data, financial, funding)
Total value (estimated)
- £2,210,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 1 August 2025 to 31 July 2026
- 1 year
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 80000000 - Education and training services
Contract locations
- UKC - North East (England)
- UKD - North West (England)
- UKE - Yorkshire and the Humber
- UKF - East Midlands (England)
- UKG - West Midlands (England)
- UKH - East of England
- UKI - London
- UKJ - South East (England)
- UKK - South West (England)
Lot 1. Occupations sector areas
Description
To provide educational delivery within 6 occupational sector areas (S1 Adults' & Children's Care; SS3 Animal Care; S6 IT; S7 Beauty Therapy; S8 Sport, S15 Business), plus Functional Skills, GCSE Maths & English and Employability Skills. Including within niche provision such as animal care.
Special consideration for vulnerable learners will be required and those who have barriers to learning from previous negative experiences at school. We will also seek a provider than can support students who could find a large formal college environment overwhelming or intimidating and are more likely to engage and thrive in a smaller setting as such providing a different entry point which may better suit some disadvantaged groups Also supporting individuals who share protected characteristics, where there might otherwise be gaps
Lot value (estimated)
- £1,760,000 including VAT
Same for all lots
CPV classifications, contract locations and contract dates are shown in the Scope section, because they are the same for all lots.
Lot 2. Elite Sports Provison
Description
To deliver specific sport courses with access to dedicated facilities.
Due to the nature of these courses the college would like to see evidence of elite sports training facilities enabling learners to develop in both the sports and coaching aspects as well as any additional enrichment opportunities the partnership would provide.
Lot value (estimated)
- £420,000 including VAT
Same for all lots
CPV classifications, contract locations and contract dates are shown in the Scope section, because they are the same for all lots.
Lot 3. E-Sports Subcontract
Description
Subcontractors must demonstrate access to and proficiency with high-end gaming hardware and software, including but not limited to, tournament-grade PCs, peripherals, and streaming equipment. A proven track record of industry knowledge is essential, evidenced by direct involvement in Esports competitions, event management, or professional coaching. This expertise should encompass a comprehensive understanding of current game titles, competitive formats, and the evolving landscape of the Esports ecosystem, ensuring seamless integration and high-quality delivery of services.
Lot value (estimated)
- £30,000 including VAT
Same for all lots
CPV classifications, contract locations and contract dates are shown in the Scope section, because they are the same for all lots.
Participation
Legal and financial capacity conditions of participation
Lot 1. Occupations sector areas
Lot 2. Elite Sports Provison
Lot 3. E-Sports Subcontract
To provide copies of audited accounts only if they are required by the Companies Act 2006 or an overseas equivalent to have their accounts audited
Technical ability conditions of participation
Lot 1. Occupations sector areas
Lot 2. Elite Sports Provison
Lot 3. E-Sports Subcontract
Must have an active UKPRN
All staff must hold a valid DBS Check
Geographical location must be within 30 miles as per ESFA guidence
Particular suitability
Lot 1. Occupations sector areas
Lot 2. Elite Sports Provison
Lot 3. E-Sports Subcontract
- Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
- Voluntary, community and social enterprises (VCSE)
Submission
Enquiry deadline
28 March 2025, 11:59pm
Tender submission deadline
4 April 2025, 12:00pm
Submission address and any special instructions
Please return tenders to: tenders@cityplym.ac.uk
Tenders may be submitted electronically
No
Languages that may be used for submission
English
Award decision date (estimated)
30 April 2025
Award criteria
Lot 1. Occupations sector areas
| Name | Description | Type | Weighting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Describe how you will engage with relevant employers, recruit participants and deliver the planned qualifications. Please also indicate the qualifications you plan on offering | Assessment Score -4 - Excellent Comprehensive response supported by examples Description fully supported by details that demonstrate the applicant's ability to provide the required services. Good -3 Broad... |
Quality | 20% |
| Please indicate your readiness to commence delivery upon notification of award | Assessment Score -4 - Excellent Comprehensive response supported by examples Description fully supported by details that demonstrate the applicant's ability to provide the required services. Good -3 Broad... |
Quality | 10% |
| How will you provide progression support for your participants during and after learning has taken place? (max. 500 words) | Assessment Score -4 - Excellent Comprehensive response supported by examples Description fully supported by details that demonstrate the applicant's ability to provide the required services. Good -3 Broad... |
Quality | 10% |
| Please state your experience in delivering up to 3 contracts that are of a similar nature to that required within the programmes offered | Assessment Score -4 - Excellent Comprehensive response supported by examples Description fully supported by details that demonstrate the applicant's ability to provide the required services. Good -3 Broad... |
Quality | 10% |
| Please state any experience you have of undertaking robust initial assessments of individuals reviews exit interviews and individuals tracking (max. 500 words) | Assessment Score -4 - Excellent Comprehensive response supported by examples Description fully supported by details that demonstrate the applicant's ability to provide the required services. Good -3 Broad... |
Quality | 10% |
| Contract management arrangements and meeting quality assurance requirements | Assessment Score -4 - Excellent Comprehensive response supported by examples Description fully supported by details that demonstrate the applicant's ability to provide the required services. Good -3 Broad... |
Quality | 10% |
| Meeting colleges expectations on administration requirements | Assessment Score -4 - Excellent Comprehensive response supported by examples Description fully supported by details that demonstrate the applicant's ability to provide the required services. Good -3 Broad... |
Quality | 10% |
| Lot 1 Specific: | Please state any experience you have of working with those more vulnerable to future employment, with barriers to achieving sustainable employment, such as those now in employment but who have been... |
Quality | 10% |
| Describe any additional services your organisation offers to enhance and or complement services (max. 500 words) | Assessment Score -4 - Excellent Comprehensive response supported by examples Description fully supported by details that demonstrate the applicant's ability to provide the required services. Good -3 Broad... |
Quality | 5% |
| Sustainability, the Environment and Social Responsibility | Assessment Score -4 - Excellent Comprehensive response supported by examples Description fully supported by details that demonstrate the applicant's ability to provide the required services. Good -3 Broad... |
Quality | 5% |
Lot 2. Elite Sports Provison
| Name | Description | Type | Weighting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Describe how you will engage with relevant employers, recruit participants and deliver the planned qualifications. Please also indicate the qualifications you plan on offering. | Assessment Score -4 - Excellent Comprehensive response supported by examples Description fully supported by details that demonstrate the applicant's ability to provide the required services. Good -3 Broad... |
Quality | 20% |
| Please indicate your readiness to commence delivery upon notification of award. | Assessment Score -4 - Excellent Comprehensive response supported by examples Description fully supported by details that demonstrate the applicant's ability to provide the required services. Good -3 Broad... |
Quality | 10% |
| How will you provide progression support for your participants during and after learning has taken place? (max. 500 words) | Assessment Score -4 - Excellent Comprehensive response supported by examples Description fully supported by details that demonstrate the applicant's ability to provide the required services. Good -3 Broad... |
Quality | 10% |
| Please state your experience in delivering up to 3 contracts that are of a similar nature to that required within the programmes offered | Assessment Score -4 - Excellent Comprehensive response supported by examples Description fully supported by details that demonstrate the applicant's ability to provide the required services. Good -3 Broad... |
Quality | 10% |
| Please state any experience you have of undertaking robust initial assessments of individuals reviews exit interviews and individuals tracking (max. 500 words) | Assessment Score -4 - Excellent Comprehensive response supported by examples Description fully supported by details that demonstrate the applicant's ability to provide the required services. Good -3 Broad... |
Quality | 10% |
| Contract management arrangements and meeting quality assurance requirements | Assessment Score -4 - Excellent Comprehensive response supported by examples Description fully supported by details that demonstrate the applicant's ability to provide the required services. Good -3 Broad... |
Quality | 10% |
| Meeting colleges expectations on administration requirements | Assessment Score -4 - Excellent Comprehensive response supported by examples Description fully supported by details that demonstrate the applicant's ability to provide the required services. Good -3 Broad... |
Quality | 10% |
| Lot 2 Specific | Access elite sports training facilities enabling learners to develop in both the sports and coaching aspects as well as any additional enrichment opportunities the partnership would provide. |
Quality | 10% |
| Describe any additional services your organisation offers to enhance and or complement services (max. 500 words) | Assessment Score -4 - Excellent Comprehensive response supported by examples Description fully supported by details that demonstrate the applicant's ability to provide the required services. Good -3 Broad... |
Quality | 5% |
| Sustainability, the Environment and Social Responsibility | Assessment Score -4 - Excellent Comprehensive response supported by examples Description fully supported by details that demonstrate the applicant's ability to provide the required services. Good -3 Broad... |
Quality | 5% |
Lot 3. E-Sports Subcontract
| Name | Description | Type | Weighting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Describe how you will engage with relevant employers, recruit participants and deliver the planned qualifications. Please also indicate the qualifications you plan on offering | Assessment Score -4 - Excellent Comprehensive response supported by examples Description fully supported by details that demonstrate the applicant's ability to provide the required services. Good -3 Broad... |
Quality | 20% |
| Please indicate your readiness to commence delivery upon notification of award | Assessment Score -4 - Excellent Comprehensive response supported by examples Description fully supported by details that demonstrate the applicant's ability to provide the required services. Good -3 Broad... |
Quality | 10% |
| How will you provide progression support for your participants during and after learning has taken place? (max. 500 words) | Assessment Score -4 - Excellent Comprehensive response supported by examples Description fully supported by details that demonstrate the applicant's ability to provide the required services. Good -3 Broad... |
Quality | 10% |
| Please state your experience in delivering up to 3 contracts that are of a similar nature to that required within the programmes offered | Assessment Score -4 - Excellent Comprehensive response supported by examples Description fully supported by details that demonstrate the applicant's ability to provide the required services. Good -3 Broad... |
Quality | 10% |
| Please state any experience you have of undertaking robust initial assessments of individuals reviews exit interviews and individuals tracking | Assessment Score -4 - Excellent Comprehensive response supported by examples Description fully supported by details that demonstrate the applicant's ability to provide the required services. Good -3 Broad... |
Quality | 10% |
| Contract management arrangements and meeting quality assurance requirements | Assessment Score -4 - Excellent Comprehensive response supported by examples Description fully supported by details that demonstrate the applicant's ability to provide the required services. Good -3 Broad... |
Quality | 10% |
| Meeting colleges expectations on administration requirements | Assessment Score -4 - Excellent Comprehensive response supported by examples Description fully supported by details that demonstrate the applicant's ability to provide the required services. Good -3 Broad... |
Quality | 10% |
| Lot 3 Specific | Experience and qualifications for teaching and proving courses in e-sports including dedicated spaces |
Quality | 10% |
| Describe any additional services your organisation offers to enhance and or complement services (max. 500 words) | Assessment Score -4 - Excellent Comprehensive response supported by examples Description fully supported by details that demonstrate the applicant's ability to provide the required services. Good -3 Broad... |
Quality | 5% |
| Sustainability, the Environment and Social Responsibility | Assessment Score -4 - Excellent Comprehensive response supported by examples Description fully supported by details that demonstrate the applicant's ability to provide the required services. Good -3 Broad... |
Quality | 5% |
Other information
Conflicts assessment prepared/revised
Yes
Procedure
Procedure type
Open procedure
Special regime
Light touch
Reduced tendering period
Yes
Light touch contract - no minimum
Documents
Associated tender documents
Appendix A CCP Standard Terms and Conditions Goods and Services.pdf
Appendix B_ Due Diligence Doc.docx
Appendix C Agreement Conditions Acceptance and Declaration Form.docx
Appendix D Subcontractor Application.docx
ITT003 Subcontracting 25_26.docx
Contracting authority
City College Plymouth
- UK Register of Learning Providers (UKPRN number): 10005128
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PQHV-9439-HHDJ
Kings Road
Devonport
PL1 5QG
United Kingdom
Email: procurement@cityplym.ac.uk
Region: UKK41 - Plymouth
Organisation type: Public authority - sub-central government