PP-10161a Harris Federation – 1st Re-opening of the PerCo Open Framework
A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.
The real opportunity here isn't just recruitment
It's easy to see this as just a recruitment framework.
But if I were you, I'd think of it as a chance to partner with the Harris Federation.
They aren't just looking for staffing solutions.
They're looking for partners who understand the unique challenges of supporting academies across London.
This framework is about being a preferred supplier for both permanent and contingent recruitment services.
It covers all existing and future academies within the Federation.
And with 12 lots, there's scope to specialise.
Winning a place is just the beginning
Remember, this isn't about winning a single contract.
It's about securing a spot on the framework.
That means your submission needs to shine in the mini-competition to win a place.
Winning a place here is the first step.
Then, you'll need to compete for individual call-offs either through direct awards or mini-competitions.
That's when the real work begins.
Understand the value of direct awards
Direct awards mean you could be selected without further competition.
But why would a buyer pick you over others?
It's about being easy to find, competitively priced and known for reliability.
Your framework submission should lay the groundwork for this.
Make it clear why you're the sensible choice.
Prepare for mini-competitions
When a call-off is a mini-competition, you're back into bidding.
The framework submission and call-off responses are different pieces of writing.
You'll need to turn around a tailored proposal quickly.
I'd suggest having templates ready and understanding the specifics of each lot deeply.
Pay attention to what they say
One thing that stood out to me is the mention of a "specified platform" for call-offs.
That tells me the Harris Federation values streamlined processes.
If I were writing this tender, I'd focus on how my systems align with their platform and processes.
Compatibility matters.
Evidence always beats promises
I've seen many bidders make grand promises.
But evidence carries more weight.
If you've successfully supported other academies or educational institutions, showcase it.
Include:
- Case studies demonstrating successful placements
- Client testimonials
- Metrics on recruitment speed and retention rates
- Examples of specialised recruitment strategies
Consistency over time
Being part of a framework means delivering over several years.
Consistency is key.
Think about how you'll maintain standards across a multi-year term.
Consider:
- How you'll handle staff turnover
- Your strategies for maintaining a talent pool
- Regular performance reviews and feedback loops
Think about capacity
With a framework covering such a wide scope, capacity matters.
It's not just about filling a position.
It's about having the resources to meet demand across different lots.
Be realistic about which lots you can genuinely service.
Common mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Overpromise without backing up claims
- Fail to differentiate between lots
- Ignore the importance of direct awards
- Lack evidence of past success
- Overlook the need for alignment with the specified platform
- Underestimate the importance of consistent quality over time
My Final Thoughts
This framework is about more than just recruitment services.
It's about becoming a trusted partner for the Harris Federation.
With a total value of £160,000,000 and running from February 2027 to January 2030, there's significant opportunity here.
But remember, the framework submission is your first win.
Quality will matter in every subsequent call-off, with the process allowing both direct awards and mini-competitions.
So, make sure your written submission clearly demonstrates why they can trust you.
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.