Decision details

GMCA have run a competitive process and Instep UK’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 Instep UK’s scores were sufficient for the procurement process to continue without reopening this tender to the market. The panel felt that the bidder’s delivery model exceeded expectations. They were also pleased with the bidder’s mobilisation plan, and responses looking at track record, engagement and stakeholder management, as well as performance management and monitoring.

Following the moderation, Instep UK were written to, asking them to submit a clarification response to allow the panel to receive some additional details around their bid. The organisation were asked to resubmit or provide additional clarification and detail around their pricing schedule, looking at the financial value for money response and staffing breakdown.
Following receipt of the response, the panel were satisfied that the moderation scores were accurate, and Instep UK should be awarded the ESF Skills for Growth Commissioning – Lean Manufacturing & Management Skills 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 Instep UK Ltd. This is part of the Skills for Growth programme and focuses on Lean Manufacturing & Management Skills.
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.