The DFE guidance for 2026/27 requires the College to carry out a tendering process prior to the allocation of sub-contracting contracts. This applies to both the study programme and adult provision.
City College Plymouth is committed to growing and diversifying the range of programmes and opportunities we deliver to widen participation, deliver to niche markets, engage in new and emerging markets and our contribution to skills needs. In order to achieve this, the College has taken the strategic decision to subcontract part of its provision.
This supports the College’s strategy to provide education and training which meets the needs of students and employers.
All subcontracting will be in line with the EFSA requirements and for the purpose of one or more of the following:
a. enhance the opportunities available to young people and adults
b. fill gaps in niche or expert provision, or provide better access to training facilities
c. support better geographical access for learners
d. offer an entry point for disadvantaged groups
e. Support individuals who share protected characteristics, where there might otherwise be gaps
The rationale of the subcontracting is to enhance the quality of our learner offer. We do not offer subcontracts to meet short term funding objectives. We ensure learners receive the best possible education and training. By subcontracting we enhance the opportunities available to learners, we use the subcontractor and their expertise to provide better access to facilities or to fill a gap in expertise or niche or expert provision. It enables learners to have better geographical access to their education and supports all learners who may be disadvantaged enter into education. Subcontracting will support individuals who share particular characteristics where otherwise there are gaps
City College is seeking an offer spread across 3 lots. Full details can be found in the supporting documentation.