Tender: Academic Assurance Partner for Regenerative Schools Pilot — Ultra‑Low‑Carbon Design, Engagement and Evaluation

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The Department for Education is seeking an Academic Assurance Partner to provide academic and research expertise for the Regenerative Schools Pilot, working alongside an Innovation Lead to produce feasibility studies, research ultra‑low‑carbon materials and techniques, and help develop six standard single‑ and dual‑classroom designs plus associated landscaping and retrofit interventions. The partner will create a school‑ready engagement toolkit and deliver inclusive engagement with pupils, staff, governors, parents and other stakeholders across participating regions, translate lived‑experience findings into clear design inputs, and lead structured post‑occupancy evaluation combining qualitative and quantitative evidence on internal and external environmental factors (such as air quality, temperature and acoustics), wellbeing, nature‑connectedness and educational impact, with results shared through publications, reports and case studies. The Department intends to appoint the Academic Assurance Partner in August 2026 and to appoint a contractor for delivery in March 2027.