Tender: Learning Partner for Pilot to Prevent Harmful Sexual Behaviour in Schools – VRU (Multi Academy Trust & 3–4 Local Authorities)

About

The VRU is seeking a Learning Partner to support a pilot to prevent problematic sexual behaviour in schools, working with one Multi Academy Trust and 3–4 local authorities. The Learning Partner will support the co-design phase by mapping services, understanding need, and developing clear approaches (for example, Theories of Change) using best practice for complex issues like harmful sexual behaviour. They will also support shared learning across areas, build a community of practice, develop simple performance monitoring, and evaluate the pilot to inform future work. Background information notes that harmful sexual behaviour is common in schools and increasingly shaped by technology such as social media, image sharing and AI content; many school staff lack confidence and training to address these issues and schools are responsible for responding to peer sexual abuse, often relying on staff judgement, making consistent guidance and support essential. The delivery of the pilot itself will be procured separately. The maximum budget is £140,000 excl VAT, split as £70,000 for an initial term of 2 years 4 months and £70,000 for an optional extension of 2 years (1+1). Clarification questions are due by 1st June at 3pm and tender responses are due by 17th June at 1pm.