Issue 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.