Qualifications and Curriculum Development Agency

Last updated: 19 February 2009

Invitation to tender for the QCA diversity and inclusion project

I am pleased to invite you to tender for the above project with specific focus on the Diploma Programme.

Please ensure you read the instructions on the tendering procedures carefully since failure to comply with them may invalidate your tender, which must be delivered to Darren Lucas in procurement by 12.00noon on 6th February 2009.

The Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) is a non-departmental public body, sponsored by the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF). As part of the 14–19 reform programme, the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF), the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA), Ofqual, the UK Commission for Employment and Skills, Sector Skills Councils, other sector bodies and awarding bodies are developing a new qualification – the Diploma.

The Diploma is about learning a range of widely applicable skills and knowledge, set within a 'specialised' context – a specified group of sectors and subjects. The Diploma offers a unique blend of general and applied learning. Applied learning – acquiring knowledge and skills through tasks or contexts that have many of the characteristics of real work – is at the heart of the Diploma. The Diploma will promote diversity, opportunity and inclusion by offering high-quality, credible, work-related learning opportunities.

The Diploma, designed principally for 14- to 19-year-olds and agreed by the Secretary of State, recognises achievement at three levels: Foundation (level 1), Higher (level 2) and Advanced (level 3). They will be available for 17 Lines of learning.

The main objective of the project will be to complete Equality Impact Assessments for the Diploma Programme.

In relation to current equalities legislation, you will also need to consider and report on:

• the criteria set for each line of learning upon which it is based
• the key overarching documents that support the development of qualifications from the criteria;
• the completion of Inclusion Sheets for 17 Lines of Learning Criteria;
• how any potential risks or impact identified could be appropriately managed and/ or any additional work that might need to be taken to support Diversity and Inclusion within the Diploma Programme;
• and to ensure effective knowledge transfer to staff

Timetable for Tenders:

• Expression of Interest by 29th January 2009
• Deadline for receipt of Questions by 12.00hrs on 2nd February 2009
• Time and Date for return of tenders by 12.00hrs on 6th February 2009
• Presentations / Interviews if required by 11th February 2009
• Expected date of award by 13th February 2009
• Date Contract expected to commence W/C 23rd February 2009

All EOI's to be sent to: contracts@qca.org.uk Att: Darren Lucas. Please state contract number and title.