S4S Cluster 9 ~ Catering

This tender process is a collaborative project, undertaken by The Litmus Partnership Ltd on behalf of Services4Schools (S4S). S4S are conducting a tender process for two Schools, known as Cluster 9. The successful Supplier will be required to provide catering services for the following two Schools within S4S Cluster 9: 1.Fallings Park Primary School, Old Fallings Lane, Low Hill, Wolverhampton, WV10 8BN https://www.fallingspark.org.uk/ 2.West Park Primary School, Devon Road, Whitmore Reans. Wolverhampton, WV1 4BE https://www.westparkprimaryschool.co.uk/ The contract covers the scope for the provision of all catering services within the Schools, which is inclusive of all hospitality and free issue requirements. The duration of the contract being offered is for an initial three-year period commencing on 01 September 2023 and concluding on 31 August 2026, with the potential to then extend for a further two 12-month periods. This extension will be granted by mutual consent and on the same terms and conditions as the original contract without the right to further extend beyond the full five years. The contract being offered within this tender will be on a guaranteed performance basis, with an expected profit share of any betterment to the agreed budget. The Cluster is seeking a suitably experienced contractor who is able to evidence working with multiple Schools with varying requirements. The successful contractor will already have, or need to develop, a strong operational base within the West Midlands, thus allowing for both adequate contract support and operational flexibility that is to be delivered to support the contract as and when needed moving forwards into this contractual term. The services are currently outsourced and TUPE is expected to apply. It is possible that a number of employees are members of the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) and therefore the successful contractor will be expected to gain Admitted Body Status (ABS) in order to continue contributing to the scheme. Within all schools, the Cluster wishes to offer good wholesome healthy eating options within the menus which should be based on the use of fresh ingredients and bakery products sourced through a local supply chain. The Cluster also wishes to achieve as a result of this tender process; 1.The provision of a healthy, balanced menu that meets nutritional guidelines and is enjoyed by all users of the service. This menu should be inclusive of those with special dietary requirements. 2.An innovative and flexible menu that is in keeping with current food trends. Offering frequent themed menus and initiatives that support the curriculum and various school led activities, ensuring the food offer remains varied and enticing to its customers. 3.Experienced and proactive contract management to promote good levels of communication and engagement with each School, as well as provide forthcoming management information regarding the financial and operational performance of the catering provision. 4.Well-trained catering teams at each school, with a focus by the successful contractor on both craft training and customer service. 5.An effective marketing campaign that is suitable and appropriate for each school that should be promoted effectively to both pupils and parents alike. 6.Total transparency with accounts that are clear and easy to understand. 7.The development of an economically and environmentally sustainable service. To achieve overall value for money is an objective of this tender. However, please note that the Cluster is not obliged to accept the lowest price and the contract award will be in line with the marking matrix published within the tender specification where an overall focus will be given to food quality and innovation of the catering offer, as well the management support. See SQ document for further details.