Scope
Reference
ASP01.49
Description
This tender opportunity has been issued by Aspire Academy Trust ("the Trust"). The proposed contract will be for the provision of Outsourced Catering Service to the Trust. The Trust is seeking a Contractor that will deliver the service for this contract, providing a high-quality service, whilst delivering value for money for the school, parents and pupils using the Services. The Contract will include all food and staff provision to support the delivery of the catering services requirement. In addition to the above, the Contractor shall: a. work in partnership with the Trust, operating at Trust level, demonstrating a centralised approach that offers transparency and visibility of management information, KPI and financial performance. This will allow for a robust level of oversight regarding contract delivery as a whole. b. fully utilise the benefits, from a centralised strategy and approach for both parties, continually improving the quality and uptake of meals, particularly for FSM pupils. c. operate a standard approach across all schools, delivering an exemplary quality of service whilst harnessing a continuous drive for improvement throughout the contract term. d. ensure a high-quality food offering, whilst delivering value for money for schools, pupils and parents using the services. e. offer a service that is aligned to the vision, value and ethos of the Trust. f. be responsible for TUPE of existing staff.
Total value (estimated)
- £12,000,000 excluding VAT
- £14,400,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 5 January 2026 to 4 January 2028
- Possible extension to 4 January 2030
- 4 years
Description of possible extension:
Option of two further one year extensions (3+1+1)
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 55524000 - School catering services
Contract locations
- IE053 - South-West
Participation
Legal and financial capacity conditions of participation
Risks to contract performance are: Compliance and Regulatory Risks: Failure to comply with regulations and standards can lead to legal penalties and increased liability. Regular updates to safety regulations may require ongoing adjustments to the contract and services provided. Operational Risks: Delays in response times for the provision of workers. Not being able to fullfil the bookings Financial Risks: Inaccurate cost estimates or underfunding can lead to incomplete or substandard service delivery. Vendor Risks: A Contractor may fail to meet contractual obligations or commit a matereial breach. Contractor may face operational or financial difficulties. Technological Risks: Outdated or incompatible technology can hinder the effectiveness of fire and security systems. Cybersecurity threats to digital security systems can compromise sensitive information and system integrity. Communication Risks: Poor communication between the Contractor and the Trust can lead to misunderstandings and unmet expectations. Lack of clear protocols for reporting and addressing issues can delay resolution and increase risks.
Technical ability conditions of participation
Provide 3 relevant previous contract examples To constitute a pass, the contract examples provided shall be relevant to the requirement, with a sufficient level of detail that provides confidence in the Tenderer's established past experience in similar and relevant projects/contracts. The contracts must be within the education sector and similar complexity and working on more than one site within the contract.
Particular suitability
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
Submission
Publication date of tender notice (estimated)
5 August 2025
Enquiry deadline
22 September 2025, 12:00pm
Tender submission deadline
29 September 2025, 12:00pm
Submission address and any special instructions
Tenders may be submitted electronically
Yes
Languages that may be used for submission
English
Award decision date (estimated)
25 October 2025
Award criteria
| Name | Type | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Quality | Quality | 60% |
| Guaranteed Position | Cost | 40% |
Other information
Description of risks to contract performance
Risks to contract performance are: Compliance and Regulatory Risks: Failure to comply with regulations and standards can lead to legal penalties and increased liability. Regular updates to safety regulations may require ongoing adjustments to the contract and services provided. Operational Risks: Delays in response times for the provision of workers. Not being able to fullfil the bookings Financial Risks: Inaccurate cost estimates or underfunding can lead to incomplete or substandard service delivery. Vendor Risks: A Contractor may fail to meet contractual obligations or commit a matereial breach. Contractor may face operational or financial difficulties. Technological Risks: Outdated or incompatible technology can hinder the effectiveness of fire and security systems. Cybersecurity threats to digital security systems can compromise sensitive information and system integrity. Communication Risks: Poor communication between the Contractor and the Trust can lead to misunderstandings and unmet expectations. Lack of clear protocols for reporting and addressing issues can delay resolution and increase risks.
Applicable trade agreements
- Government Procurement Agreement (GPA)
Procedure
Procedure type
Open procedure
Special regime
Concession
Contracting authority
Aspire Academy Trust
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PRMG-1387-DLGR
Unit 20, St Austell Business Park, St Austell, Cornwall, PL25 4FD
St Austell
PL25 4FD
United Kingdom
Contact name: Julie Brooks
Email: julie.brooks@iaspire.net
Region: UKK30 - Cornwall and Isles of Scilly
Organisation type: Public authority - central government
Other organisation
These organisations are carrying out the procurement, or part of it, on behalf of the contracting authorities.
PHP Law LLP
Summary of their role in this procurement: Procurement Consultant
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PPRM-9434-VNYQ
Unit 3 The Brutus Centre Station Road Totnes
Totnes
TQ9 5RW
United Kingdom
Region: UKK43 - Devon CC