Decision details

To seek Cabinet approval to:-  conduct a procurement process to establish a Framework Contract for the provision of education, day and residential places at independent and non- maintained special schools. The Contracts will take effect as from September 2014, with referrals for new placements being made from July 2014; and delegate to the Head of Learning Support the decision on which providers will be awarded the contract (s) subject to the agreed procurement process

The Cabinet considered the report of the Director of Young People and Families which provided details of the current position regarding the Authority’s use of education, day and residential places at Independent and Non- Maintained Special Schools; and which sought approval to conduct a procurement process to establish a Framework Contract for the provision of Pre-16 education, day and residential places at independent and non- maintained special schools. The Contracts would take effect as from September 2014, with referrals for new placements being made from July 2014.

Decision Made:

That:

(1)       the developments regarding the authority’s use of education, day and residential places at Independent and non-maintained special schools be noted;

(2)       the evaluation criteria for tenders to provide Pre-16 day and residential places at independent and non- maintained special schools from September 2014, as set out in paragraphs 6.1 and 7.1 of the report, be approved;

(3)       the Director of Young People and Families be authorised to accept the highest  scoring tenders based on the evaluation criteria agreed; and

(4)       the contract be for 2 years with the option to extend for 1x2 year periods, subject to a satisfactory review.

Reasons for Decision:

To ensure that children and young people with the most severe and complex special educational needs are provided with high quality specialist provision, matched to their individual needs, in line with the principles of best value.

Alternative Options Considered and Rejected:

None