Education Specialists to support the academies and free school programme

The Department for Education is seeking to engage specialist contractors to support the Academies and Free Schools Programme and help deliver the Department’s aim to ensure high educational standards in academies and free schools and to secure sponsorship arrangements for maintained schools moving to academy status.

Contractors will be deployed regionally, in proximity to their home bases where possible, but may be asked to work in other regions to support the eight Regional Schools Commissioners (RSCs). Contracts will initially run until 31 October 2017.

Bidders should be high-calibre individuals with a proven track record in developing and leading outstanding schools or those who are able to demonstrate how they have effected rapid and sustainable school improvement. Bidders should have expertise in one or more areas of the full range of phases and specialisms including primary, secondary, all-through, 14-19 and post-16, alternative and special provision, Free Schools, UTCs and Studio Schools.

Bidders will be required to demonstrate that their professional knowledge and experience will enable them to advise others on good practice to secure improved educational outcomes for all children in their schools.

The contract will be for 2 years with an option for extending for an additional year.