Clinical Assessment Skills (CAS) training for Pharmacist Prescribers
A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.
The real focus isn't just on training
When I look at this tender, what really jumps out is that HEIW isn't just looking for someone to deliver training.
They're looking for someone who can consistently provide high-quality, face-to-face Clinical Assessment Skills training across Wales.
That's a big ask.
The contract covers delivering 3-4 full-day sessions per region each year, focusing on key clinical areas.
It's split into three lots: North Wales, South East Wales and South West Wales.
Each session needs to accommodate 8-15 learners.
Think about consistency in delivery
This isn't just about delivering a single session.
It's about maintaining consistency across multiple regions and sessions.
If I were evaluating bids, I'd want to see how you plan to ensure the same high standard of training is provided regardless of the region.
Consider how you'll manage scheduling, resources and potential cancellations if minimum learner numbers aren't met.
Don't forget the learners' experience
Pharmacists attending these sessions are at different stages in their careers.
Some are novices, others are experienced.
Your response should reflect how you'll cater to this diverse audience.
How will you ensure that both novice and experienced pharmacists find the training valuable?
Evidence always beats promises
One thing I noticed when I worked in the public sector was that bidders often made grand promises.
But promises alone don't win contracts.
Evidence does.
If you've delivered similar training before, share those experiences.
- Testimonials from past learners
- Success stories
- Data on improved clinical skills post-training
These are what I'd include.
Pay attention to what they say
HEIW has been very clear about their expectations.
They've set specific attendance numbers, with sessions requiring a minimum of 8 learners and a maximum of 15.
They've also reserved the right to cancel sessions with less than 8 learners.
This tells me they value efficient use of resources and effective planning.
Your submission should highlight how you'll adapt to this, ensuring sessions are viable and well-attended.
Plan for the long term
Yes, the contract runs from 1 March 2027 to 28 February 2030.
But there's an option to extend to 29 February 2032.
This isn't just a one-off opportunity.
If I were writing this tender, I'd be thinking about how to build a relationship with HEIW that lasts beyond the initial term.
Demonstrate how you plan to evolve the training programme over time to remain relevant and valuable.
Show how you'll manage logistics
Delivering across three regions isn't straightforward.
Logistics can make or break a programme like this.
Consider how you'll handle:
- Venue selection and management
- Scheduling to avoid conflicts
- Staffing, including relief for sick or unavailable trainers
- Travel and accommodation for trainers
These are things I'd want to see detailed in a bid.
Remember the human element
At the end of the day, this is about people.
Pharmacists who are keen to improve their skills.
They'll be looking for engaging, interactive and practical sessions.
I'd keep reminding myself that every decision impacts their learning experience.
Common mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Focus only on the content and ignore the learners' experience
- Lack evidence of past success in similar training
- Fail to address the logistical challenges of multi-region delivery
- Overlook the importance of maintaining consistency across sessions
- Ignore the potential for session cancellations due to low attendance
- Neglect to outline plans for evolving the programme over time
My Final Thoughts
Ultimately, HEIW is looking for a reliable partner.
Someone who can deliver consistent, high-quality training across Wales.
The contract is valued at £100,000 and offers a real opportunity to make a difference in the skills of pharmacist prescribers.
With the quality of training likely to be a major factor, your written submission needs to reflect that.
Focus on demonstrating your ability to deliver, manage logistics and enhance the learning experience.
Thanks for reading.
I hope this guide has helped make public procurement feel a little less daunting. If it has, then it's done its job.
P.S. Got a question?
If you've got a question about anything you've read, or you're stuck on a tender, just send me an email.
Whether it's a quick question or you simply need pointing in the right direction, I'm always happy to help if I can.
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Our guides are written using publicly available procurement information, including contract notices and published tender documents where available. They are designed to help suppliers understand the buyer's likely priorities and think more strategically about their approach. They are not based on any bidder's confidential submission, bespoke bid strategy or non-public procurement information.