Commissioning Academy Programme Services

The Commissioning Academy (the Academy) is a development programme for Senior Commissioners from all parts of the public sector. It is one of a range of commercial skills learning programmes delivered by the Contracting Authority on behalf of the Cabinet Office. The programme has plenty of opportunity for participants to contribute in group and individual learning activities to develop and enhance their skills and experience as a commissioning leader. The shape and content of the Academy programme has now been confirmed, but each day is shaped by introducing the very latest thinking and through sourcing expert speakers to lead the debate and learning.

The programme comprises 6 development days (Academy Days) spread over 5 to 6 months which include: at least 1 site visit to commissioning organisations; in-depth discussions with a range of leading experts and commissioners; and a provider perspective day. There is a focus on practical, peer-led learning; it is not a training course on technical processes.

The Academy covers a wide range of commissioning issues, such as outcome-based commissioning, working with the voluntary and community sector, market engagement and development, joint commissioning across organisational boundaries, social investment and other forms of funding, and new models of delivery such as Mutuals.

An additional aim, and the on-going work of the Commissioning Academy, is to build market capacity for the furthering of adult experiential and social learning in the field of commissioning. We anticipate Suppliers will gain experience in a new way of working with Senior Commissioners right across the Public Sector and that this value gain should be reflected in the costing of the activities.