Decision details

GMCA have run a competitive process and NWSA’s submission scored highly after evaluation.

1 submission was received and was sent to a full evaluation panel. The submission was checked by GMCA’s Information Governance Team and was found to be acceptable. The finances of the bidding company were also checked, along with the safeguarding policy submitted.

The Invitation to Tender comprised of 3 parts, covering (75%) Quality, (15%) Social Value and (10%) Price.

The Successful provider’s scores were deemed acceptable and comprehensive throughout their submission and offered an economically advantageous tender. Despite being the only bid, the evaluation panel felt that NWSA’s scores were sufficient for the procurement process to continue without reopening this tender to the market. The panel were pleased with the bidder’s delivery model, mobilisation plan, and responses looking at track record, engagement and stakeholder management, as well as performance management and monitoring.

In addition, NWSA’s bid included a strong supply chain including The Growth Company (Education & Skills), Simian, SB Skills Solutions, CubeHR, UK Skills Academy and The Construction Tutor. The panel felt that this supply chain is well thought through and will be able to deliver the content of this programme under NWSA as Prime.

Following the moderation, NWSA were written to, asking them to submit a clarification response to allow the panel to receive some additional details around their bid. This included clarification around how any activity delivered at Level 2 does not duplicate activity that can be funded by other funding streams, such as the Adult Education Budget. Following receipt of the response, the panel were satisfied that the moderation scores were accurate, and NWSA should be awarded the ESF Skills for Growth Commissioning – Construction Skills for Growth & Productivity contract.

Following a competitive procurement process using GMCA’s Education Work and Skills Flexible Procurement System, GMCA wishes to award a £1.2m contract to North West Skills Academy (NWSA). This is part of the Skills for Growth programme and focuses on Construction Skills for Growth & Productivity.
Delivery is expected to start no later than end of January 2022, enrolments must finish by end of March 2023, and all contract activity and support must conclude by the end of September 2023. Exceptional performance may result in discussions around extension option being implemented.