Tender: Flexible Contracting Agreement for Birmingham Virtual School Enrichment Services — Careers, Short Courses & Community Activities

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Birmingham City Council is seeking suppliers to establish a Flexible Contracting Agreement (FCA) for Birmingham Virtual School Enrichment Services under the Procurement Act 2023 using a Competitive Flexible Procedure. The FCA will deliver a comprehensive programme to enrich the educational experiences and outcomes of looked-after children and children placed by Birmingham City Council in other local authority areas, promoting achievement, inclusion, participation and progression. The agreement is structured into three lots: Lot 1 Careers Information, Advice and Guidance (CIAG) for ages 12–19 (to be awarded to one provider); Lot 2 Short Courses and Qualifications for Year 11–13 learners, split into 2a ESOL (Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5) and 2b Accredited courses & Qualifications (Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5), to be awarded to up to four providers (two providers for each of the Key Stages in 2a and 2b); and Lot 3 Community Enrichment Activities covering creative arts, music, sport, outdoor learning and STEM. Tenderers may bid for one or more lots, must complete the main response document and relevant lot documents, and all who meet the minimum quality criteria will be appointed to the FCA. The Authority will operate structured call-offs under the FCA with direct award as the default and the option for mini-competitions where required. The FCA is expected to be established in February 2027 with call-offs and any mini-competitions commencing from March 2027, and will run for an initial three-year period with an option to extend for one additional year subject to satisfactory performance and available funding.