Higher Specialist Scientist Training Programme (HSST)

NHS England Workforce, Training and Education is seeking to re-procure the Higher Specialist Scientist Training (HSST) academic delivery programme.

There are 13 lots within this procurement

Suppliers may bid for more than one lot

The initial contract term shall be five (5) years. The Contracting Authority may, at its discretion, extend the contract for a period of up to two (2) years in accordance with the Contract. Following expiry of the Initial Term or any Extension Term, the contract may continue solely for the purposes of any applicable Run-Off Period, exit and transition arrangements, and any other provisions which expressly or by implication survive expiry or termination, as set out in the Contract (Document 4 Terms & Conditions).

Total funding available is £42,186,230.80 . This will train up to 1277 learners across all lots. The maximum price per learner for the 5 years course is:

Life Sciences: £25,275.60 per learner (excluding VAT)

Non-Life Sciences: £37,915.00 per learner (excluding VAT)

The deadline for submission of completed ITT submissions is 4th September 2026 at 12:00pm (midday).

Late submissions will not be accepted therefore, please submit in good time prior to the deadline date and time. All communications should be made via the messaging function on the e-Tendering portal during the tender exercise.

The Contracting Authority requests that all communications are channelled through the e-portal system and not with the Contracting Authority itself other than as expressly permitted within this ITT.

Further information relating to this project can be found at NHSE e-tendering portal at the link below. All clarification questions and submission bids must be received via this portal only. Registration is free of charge. https://health-family-contract-search.secure.force.com/?SearchType=Projects