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Kent County Council (KCC) is establishing a new Independent and Non‑Maintained Special Schools (INMSS) Open Framework (reference CN260427) to replace the existing NMISS Dynamic Purchasing System when it expires on 31 August 2026. The Framework will support the placement of children and young people with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) whose needs cannot be met in mainstream or maintained special school settings, ensuring continuity of provision and compliance with the Procurement Act 2023.
The Framework will commence on 1 September 2026 for an initial period of 4 years, with potential extensions up to another 4 years, and an estimated maximum total value of £876 million across the full term. It aims to improve outcomes, strengthen quality assurance, enhance pricing transparency, and secure better value for money while ensuring placements remain focused on children with the most complex needs.
Provision under this Framework includes Independent Special Schools (both Section 41 and non‑Section 41) and Non‑Maintained Special Schools. Providers must be appropriately registered with Ofsted or the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) and must meet statutory and contractual quality, safeguarding, and compliance requirements.
The Framework uses a two‑lot structure:
Lot A - Strategic Partners, for Tenderers meeting a higher quality threshold and capable of close strategic collaboration with KCC, including potential consideration for longer‑term arrangements such as block contracting.
Lot B - Approved Providers, meeting the standard quality threshold.
The procurement will be conducted via a Competitive Flexible Procedure, comprising a Conditions of Participation Stage followed by an Invitation to Tender for shortlisted providers. Quality evaluation thresholds will determine allocation to Lots.
For full details, all suppliers must access the opportunity through the Kent Business Portal and download the complete document pack: https://www.kentbusinessportal.org.uk/
| Lot | Title | Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lot 1 | — |
| B | Lot B | — |
| Title | Supplier | Value | Awarded |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lot A. Strategic Partners | Barnardo Services Limited | £876,000,000 | 10 Jun 2026 |
| Lot B. Approved Providers | Acorn Norfolk Ltd | £876,000,000 | 10 Jun 2026 |