Standards and Frameworks - Framework Agreement

SDS is inviting bids for a place on the Framework. The Framework will be for 2 years from 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2025 with the option of 2 x 1 year extensions.

The scope of services to be provided under this contract falls within the definition of social and other specific services in Schedule 3 to the Public Contracts (Regulations 2015 ("the regulations") and therefore the procurement process shall in accordance with Regulation 74 of the Regulation be subject to the requirement of section 7 of the Regulations. By virtue of regulation 76(3) of the regulations, bidders in any of the situations listed in regulation 58 of the Regulation may be excluded.

Welsh Translations for NOS when this is required.

SVQs and CBQs are work-based qualifications based on National Occupational Standards of competence drawn up by representatives from each industry sector. They are made up of units which break a job down into separate functions reflecting the different kind of activities of a job.

An apprenticeship is a package of learning, training and practical work experience gained while employed. The content of the apprenticeship is described as a framework. Apprenticeships enable employers to develop the workforce of the future and support succession planning whilst delivering tangible benefits such as reduced staff turnover. Apprenticeships provide an opportunity to raise standards and support the professionalisation of a sector.

All new and reviewed apprenticeships must comply with relevant national policy. Wherever possible, frameworks should be mapped across all four UK nations to identify where synergies and core components exist, to support coherence across the UK and avoid unnecessary duplication of activity.