“Your Education Technology” An Open Framework (PA 2023) for the provision of ICT products, services, and solutions.
A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.
Don't think it's just about ICT
Yes, this framework is for ICT products, services and solutions.
But what Nexus Multi-Academy Trust really wants is a partner who understands schools and colleges.
They're looking for suppliers who can support education through technology, not just deliver tech.
This framework covers three lots: ICT Support Services and Managed Services, Professional Services and Hardware.
It's not just about providing equipment or services.
It's about enhancing learning environments.
Getting a place on the framework is just the start
Remember, this isn't a contract for guaranteed work.
It's an Open Framework under the Procurement Act 2023, which means it will be periodically reopened.
Winning a place is your first goal.
Once you're on, work will be awarded via call-offs, either directly or through mini-competitions.
Your initial submission needs to show not just capability but also potential for long-term collaboration.
Think about who you're really helping
Students, teachers and staff.
That's who your solutions will ultimately impact.
If I were evaluating these bids, I'd be asking how your ICT offerings make life easier for educators and improve student outcomes.
Consider the unique pressures schools face and tailor your response to show how you can alleviate them.
Pay attention to what they say
Nexus is clear about the framework's value: £1,000,000,000 over eight years.
But they also highlight that this does not guarantee any spend.
This means your bid should position you as a reliable and flexible partner.
One that can adapt to varying demands without expecting a fixed volume of work.
Evidence always beats promises
One thing I noticed when I worked in the public sector was that almost every bidder claimed to deliver excellent service.
Very few proved it.
If you have evidence, use it.
Consider including:
- Case studies from similar educational settings
- Testimonials from current or past clients
- Any industry certifications or awards
- Data showing successful project outcomes
Consistency over the whole term
This framework could last up to eight years.
How will you maintain quality and consistency over such a long period?
I'd want to see your plans for managing staff turnover, technology updates and ongoing training.
Suppliers who can demonstrate sustained excellence are more likely to win call-offs.
Don't overreach in your lot strategy
You can bid for one, multiple or all three lots.
But be realistic about your strengths.
If you spread yourself too thin, you risk diluting your offer.
It's better to be outstanding in one area than average across all.
Show how you'll make life easier for the Trust
Every contract creates work for the client.
The best contractors reduce that workload.
If I were writing this tender, I'd be explaining how my management processes make life easier for Nexus and other eligible authorities.
Think about communication, reporting and problem resolution.
My final thoughts
Nexus Multi-Academy Trust is looking for partners who understand the educational landscape in Yorkshire and The Humber.
With an estimated value of £1,000,000,000 over eight years, this framework offers significant opportunities.
But remember, quality carries weight.
Your written submission needs to show not just what you can deliver, but how you'll be a reliable partner for the long haul.
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.