Quality Funded Early Learning and Childcare (1140 Hours)

Dundee City Council is inviting suitably qualified and experienced providers to join its existing framework for the delivery of Quality Funded Early Learning and Childcare (ELC), helping to ensure eligible children across Dundee can access their entitlement to 1,140 hours of funded childcare.

The Council is reopening its existing framework (Contract Reference: C&F/ELC/MAIN/25) under the Light Touch Regime to appoint additional providers. The framework is intended to supplement existing provision and increase capacity across the city for funded Early Learning and Childcare services.

Lots Available

The framework has been divided into two lots:

• Lot 1 – Early Learning and Childcare for eligible 2-year-old children
• Lot 2 – Early Learning and Childcare for eligible 3–5-year-old children

Lot 1 covers funded provision for eligible two-year-olds whose parent or carer receives specified benefits or where the child or parent has experienced care. Lot 2 covers funded Early Learning and Childcare for eligible children aged three to five, with eligibility commencing from the first school term following the child’s third birthday.

Contract Information

Buyer – Dundee City Council

Deadline – 29 July 2026, 12:00pm

Contract Value – £25,000,000 (excluding VAT)

Delivery Length – 18 August 2026 – 18 August 2029

Tender Link – click here

Evaluation Criteria

Price is not the only award criterion. The full evaluation methodology is set out within the procurement documentation.

Regulatory Requirements

Providers must demonstrate compliance with the Scottish Government’s Funding Follows the Child policy and the National Standard for Early Learning and Childcare Providers to access public funding.

Successful providers must also:

• Be registered with the Care Inspectorate as a Day Care of Children Service or Childminding Service.
• Maintain Care Inspectorate evaluations of “Good” or above across the relevant quality themes throughout the contract.
• Maintain compliance with all contract performance requirements set out in the Invitation to Tender documentation.

The opportunity reflects Dundee City Council’s continued investment in expanding high-quality funded early learning and childcare provision, supporting eligible children and families through access to flexible, compliant Early Learning and Childcare services across the city.

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If you want to advertise your opportunity, please contact Jamie Peacock, Tender Specialist at advertising@dailyround.news