SCC – SF – Independent Alternative Provision DPS Ongoing Applications

Surrey County Council has established a Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) for the provision of Independent Alternative Provision services supporting children and young people with additional needs and disabilities across Surrey.

The DPS has been created to provide education and specialist support services for children and young people who are in receipt of an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), alongside other individuals identified within the service specification.

According to the Council, the arrangement forms part of a wider whole-system approach to alternative provision designed to improve outcomes for vulnerable children and young people through inclusive education pathways, specialist intervention, and community-based support.

The Council stated that educational settings, health services, community organisations, and support providers will all play a key role in supporting vulnerable children and helping reintegration into mainstream education where appropriate.

Service Overview

Providers admitted onto the DPS will support children and young people requiring specialist intervention, often delivered on a one-to-one basis either within the home or community settings.

The Council confirmed that successful providers will form part of a wider “community” of provision supporting:

• Educational engagement
• Specialist intervention
• Reintegration support
• Therapeutic and wellbeing outcomes
• Preparing for adulthood and independence

The procurement is being undertaken under the Light Touch Regime in accordance with Schedule 3 of the Public Contracts Regulations 2015.

Any organisation or consortium with relevant experience may apply to join the DPS.

Lots Available

The DPS has been divided into six lots, each split into online and face-to-face delivery models.

Lot 1 – Tutoring (QTS Qualified)

• Lot 1a: Online
• Lot 1b: Face-to-Face Provision

Lot 2 – Tutoring (Non-QTS Qualified)

• Lot 2a: Online
• Lot 2b: Face-to-Face Provision

Lot 3 – Specialist Teachers

• Lot 3a: Online
• Lot 3b: Face-to-Face Provision

Lot 4 – Registered Therapies Supporting Education (HCPC Regulated)

• Lot 4a: Online
• Lot 4b: Face-to-Face Provision

Lot 5 – Other Services Supporting Education

• Lot 5a: Online
• Lot 5b: Face-to-Face Provision

Lot 6 – Post-16 Support Services

Supporting:

• Employment preparation
• Preparing for adulthood
• Independence skills

Sub-lots:

• Lot 6a: Online
• Lot 6b: Face-to-Face Provision

Providers may apply for one, multiple, or all lots and sub-lots.

Contract Information

• Buyer: Surrey County Council
• Deadline: 7th April 2032 at 12:00
• Contract Value: Not disclosed
• Delivery Length: Initial period of 4 years with optional extensions of 2 years plus a further 2 years
• Tender Link: Click here

Procurement Process

The DPS will operate through:

• An initial Admission Stage
• A subsequent Contracting Stage

Surrey County Council intends to evaluate Admission Stage applications twice annually, although additional evaluation rounds may be introduced where necessary.

The Council confirmed:

• Providers may join the DPS throughout its duration
• There is no limit to the number of providers admitted
• Admission does not guarantee any volume of work
• Providers are not obligated to bid for individual opportunities following admission

Eligible Surrey County Council maintained schools and academies may also access providers appointed onto the DPS following the first year of operation through an access agreement arrangement.

Regulatory and Quality Requirements

Providers applying to deliver regulated therapeutic services under Lot 4 must ensure relevant professional registrations are maintained under the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) where applicable.

The Council stated that all providers must meet the minimum standards and compliance requirements outlined within the Invitation to Tender documentation.

The opportunity reflects continued investment in flexible, specialist alternative provision services aimed at improving educational engagement, wellbeing, and long-term outcomes for children and young people with additional needs across Surrey.

Never Miss a Care Sector Opportunity

From contract opportunities and framework launches to sector news and procurement updates, The Daily Round delivers daily insights designed for care providers, suppliers, and sector leaders.

Sign up to The Daily Round Daily Bulletin to receive the latest opportunities and healthcare procurement news directly to your inbox.

Jamie Peacock – Tender Specialist

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