Provision for the Test of Competence: Delivery of the CBT
A practical guide to understanding what the Nursing and Midwifery Council really wants and how to build a winning response.
Don't just deliver a test. Deliver confidence.
When you look at this tender, don't just see a computer-based test.
See an evaluation platform that future nurses and midwives will rely on.
The Nursing and Midwifery Council isn't just buying a CBT system. They're buying confidence in the competence of their professionals.
Remember that.
The contract involves delivering a computer-based test comprising multiple-choice questions. It's split into two parts: numeracy and clinical questions. Candidates have three hours to complete it.
Think about the people taking the test
Behind every test result is a person.
A nurse or midwife who needs to demonstrate their competence.
If I were evaluating bids, I'd want to see how you cater to these individuals.
Consider their stress. Their need for clarity. Their need for fairness.
How will your system support them?
Pay attention to what they say
The Nursing and Midwifery Council has set aside £4,050,000 for this contract.
That's a significant investment.
They aren't just looking for the cheapest option. They want value for money.
Quality will likely be a key factor in their decision.
If I were you, I'd focus on why your solution offers the best value, not just the best price.
Don't get lost in the tech
Yes, the CBT is software-based.
But the NMC isn't buying technology for technology's sake.
They're buying outcomes.
A system that assesses theoretical knowledge and understanding effectively.
Make sure your response emphasises functionality over features.
Show how you'll handle the operational side
It's not just about delivering the test.
It's about managing the process smoothly.
How will you ensure the system runs without a hitch?
How will you manage peak times?
The NMC will want to know that you have a plan for every eventuality.
Evidence always beats promises
One thing I noticed when I worked in the public sector was that almost every bidder promised excellent service.
Few proved it.
Do you have evidence of past successes?
Have you delivered similar systems before?
Share that evidence.
- Case studies
- User testimonials
- Performance metrics
Remember the importance of accessibility
Candidates will come from diverse backgrounds.
Some may have special requirements or need accommodations.
How will your system meet these needs?
Accessibility isn't just a nice-to-have. It's essential.
Consistency is key
The CBT needs to be standardised.
Consistency in delivery and result interpretation is crucial.
How will you ensure this over the entire contract term?
I'd want to see plans for regular reviews and updates.
Avoid submissions that:
- Focus heavily on technical jargon without explaining user benefits
- Neglect the user experience for candidates
- Fail to demonstrate past successes or relevant experience
- Overlook the importance of accessibility and accommodations
- Ignore the operational management of the test delivery
- Promise low cost without showing value for money
- Lack detail on how to ensure consistency and reliability
- Offer features not directly relevant to the CBT's purpose
My Final Thoughts
The Nursing and Midwifery Council is investing £4,050,000 in a system that ensures the competence of future nurses and midwives.
That's a huge responsibility.
Quality will likely play a significant role in their decision-making process.
I'd focus my submission on demonstrating how my solution offers the best value through consistent, reliable and fair testing outcomes.
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.