Market Engagement - Capacity and Capability for In Cell learning

Since the end of March 2020 Prison education and learning opportunities for prisoners have been severely impacted through Covid-19. As Prisons start re-opening to education, we are ever mindful of the challenges that still exist through the restrictions that this pandemic has brought us.

Prison Education, through its Dynamic Purchasing Framework (DPS), is looking for current suppliers already qualified onto the DPS and new suppliers to come forward and present innovative ideas for education that can be delivered remotely for prisoners i.e. in cell.

The categories of education in the DPS are shown in additional information. We are interested in hearing from providers who specialise in distance learning solutions.

This is not a competitive process. Any information submitted shall be used to help inform future commissioning decisions.

Any future requirements identified shall be advertised and competed through the Prison Education Dynamic Purchasing System. Any parties interested should therefore seek to qualify onto the Prison Education Dynamic Purchasing System.

The Prison Education Dynamic Purchasing System is available at:

https://ministryofjusticecommercial.bravosolution.co.uk/web/login.html

Further information can be obtained from: commercial.prisoneducation@justice.gov.uk

Our expectation is that the first tranche of courses will be developed and delivered by the end of March 2021.

To note we expect education qualifications could be attained through distance learning assessment(s) where possible. In addition, examinations could be considered where suitable invigilation could be provided in a prison setting. We are unable to consider in-cell technology, including use of personal laptops but use of DVD's are an option.

Additional information:

Please respond summarising which distance learning courses you can provide and have experience of providing (question 1) against the categories in appendix A and describe how you can meet the requirements detailed in questions 2 to 6 below, max 250 words per question.

1. Summary of distance learning courses - that you are capable of providing and statement of experience of delivery.

2. Adapt the learning goals and the learning process - Remote learning is more challenging in custodial environments because for most prisons online is not an option, so suppliers would need to have or develop paper-based options. These could be supplemented with the occasional face to face visit and in some cases telephone contact.

3. Create innovative remote learning activities - Engagement is key, can you focus on providing distance learning experiences that maximise learner engagement and minimise roadblocks.

4. Support learners to overcome new challenges - The mental well-being of our learners is essential to creating a successful learning environment. Suppliers need to be able to offer innovative ways of supporting prisoners throughout their learning journey.

5. Respond to the needs to students with Learning Difficulties and Disabilities (LDD) - Learners within prisons are more likely than the general population to have higher needs related to LDD. Distance learning models that can adapt to meet these needs is essential.
6. Any other relevant information

We will be holding a one hour skype briefing session on 21st October 2020 which you will be welcome to attend. If you would like to attend then please make an email request to commercial.prisoneducation@justice.gov.uk .

Submitting your response to this PIN - please email your response to commercial.prisoneducation@justice.gov.uk, marked "PEDPS PIN Market Engagement response" no later than 17:00 on the 30th October 2020.

Appendix A - PEDPS Categories

PEDPS.01 Catering and hospitality

PEDPS.02 Construction, planning and the built environment PEDPS.03 Cleaning and facilities management

PEDPS.04 Engineering and manufacturing technologies PEPDS.05 Retail and commercial enterprise

PEDPS.06 Health, public services and care

PEDPS.07 Business, leadership, administration and law PEPDS.08 Arts, media and publishing

PEDPS.09 Agriculture, horticulture and animal care

PEDPS.10 Sport, leisure, travel and tourism

PEDPS.11 Science, humanities and languages (Not ESOL)

PEDPS.13 Life skills

PEDPS.14 Services to support individuals with Additional Learning Needs PEDPS.15 Other educational services not specified above PEDPS.17 Preparation for work and Information Advice and Guidance services