Scope
Reference
C21325
Description
The Authority is committed to ensuring access to high-quality education for all Learners, in line with statutory duties under the Education Act. To achieve this, we commission Independent Alternative Provision (IAP) to complement mainstream education, provide short-term interventions, and deliver Education Other Than At School (EOTAS) packages where appropriate.
This Framework will operate in addition to the Authority's commissioned placements at the Ofsted-regulated West Sussex Alternative Provision College (APC), which offers full-time education.
The Framework aims to secure safe, high-quality Alternative Provision that: acts as an intervention, not a destination; supports timely reintegration and/or transition of Learners into long-term education, training, or employment; and meets the individual needs of Learners, particularly Learners with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) with a particular demand on provisions supporting Learners with Social Emotional Mental Health (SEMH) and Autism.
The Framework has been updated to align with the Non-School Alternative Provision Voluntary National Standards (August 2025), ensuring Suppliers meet nationally recognized benchmarks for quality and safeguarding.
Structure of the Framework
This opportunity does not include separate Lots. Suppliers may apply for one or more Tiers and can request to add additional Tiers at any point during the Framework term.
Tier 1: Provision commissioned by schools for Learners at risk of placement breakdown (e.g., short-term intervention to maintain engagement).
Tier 2: Transitional placements commissioned by the Authority while seeking a permanent education setting.
Tier 3: Provision commissioned by the Authority for Learners with an agreed EOTAS package.
Tier 4: Specialist targeted support commissioned by the Authority for Learners supported by a multi-disciplinary team.
The Tender Document pack , including full details of the services required, can be viewed via the Authority's e-tendering Portal. https://atamis-7669.my.site.com/s/Welcome
Commercial tool
Establishes an open framework
Total value (estimated)
- £224,595,000 excluding VAT
- £224,595,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 1 March 2026 to 28 February 2028
- Possible extension to 28 February 2034
- 8 years
Description of possible extension:
Initial term of two years with the option to extend in increments of up to two years. Maximum term of eight years.
Options
The right to additional purchases while the contract is valid.
The right to add additional tiers while the contract is valid.
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 80000000 - Education and training services
Contract locations
- UKJ2 - Surrey, East and West Sussex
Framework
Open framework scheme end date (estimated)
28 February 2034
Maximum number of suppliers
Unlimited
Maximum percentage fee charged to suppliers
0%
Framework operation description
Light Touch Regime Open Framework permanently open with quarterly evaluations.
Award method when using the framework
Either with or without competition
Contracting authorities that may use the framework
Establishing party only
Participation
Particular suitability
- Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
- Voluntary, community and social enterprises (VCSE)
Submission
Enquiry deadline
2 December 2025, 12:00pm
Tender submission deadline
10 December 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)
20 February 2026
Award criteria
| Name | Description | Type | Weighting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quality | Weighting 100% |
Quality | 100% |
Other information
Conflicts assessment prepared/revised
Yes
Procedure
Procedure type
Open procedure
Special regime
Light touch
Contracting authority
West Sussex County Council
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PXJW-5627-QRQR
County Hall, West Street
Chichester
PO19 1RQ
United Kingdom
Region: UKJ27 - West Sussex (South West)
Organisation type: Public authority - sub-central government