Scope
Reference
Project_9994
Description
The Department for Education (DfE) requires a supplier to provide an independent adjudication service in relation to Ofsted's handling of complaints about its work including: handling individual complaints, the provision of advice, regular reporting regarding the volume and nature of the complaint, and publication of an annual report. The adjudication service is independent of Ofsted. Conclusions and recommendations are independent of both Ofsted and DfE.
The supplier will refer to the service as the Independent Complaints Adjudication Service for Ofsted (ICASO) and is required to identify themselves as the supplier of this service and provide information regarding the service with a webpage that can be referred to on Ofsted's webpage.
The DfE is keen to maximise opportunities to participate in procurement for Small to Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) and Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprises (VCSEs). Consideration will also be given to consortia and collaborative bids from all forms of organisations.
Total value (estimated)
- £125,000 excluding VAT
- £150,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 1 November 2025 to 31 October 2028
- Possible extension to 31 October 2029
- 4 years
Description of possible extension:
The contract shall run from the effective date for an initial period of 3 years (the contract period) with an option to extend for up to 12 months reviewed at the end of the 3 year period if required.
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 79422000 - Arbitration and conciliation services
Submission
Enquiry deadline
10 September 2025, 12:00pm
Tender submission deadline
17 September 2025, 12:00pm
Submission address and any special instructions
https://education.app.jaggaer.com/web/login.html
Tenderers will need to register via the address above
Tenders may be submitted electronically
Yes
Languages that may be used for submission
English
Award decision date (estimated)
25 September 2025
Award criteria
| Name | Type | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Technical | Quality | 80% |
| Commercial | Price | 20% |
Other information
Conflicts assessment prepared/revised
Yes
Procedure
Procedure type
Open procedure
Justification for not publishing a preliminary market engagement notice
Shortened timescales
Contracting authority
Department for Education
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PDZG-3487-DPVD
Sanctuary Buildings, 20 Great Smith Street
London
SW1P3BT
United Kingdom
Region: UKI32 - Westminster
Organisation type: Public authority - central government