Adult Skills And Learning Framework
Framework Description
West Sussex County Council's Adult Skills and Learning Framework is an open framework let under the Light Touch Regime in November 2024. It commissions adult learning and skills programmes across West Sussex, from community-based learning to formal ESFA and Ofsted-regulated provision. The estimated value is £80m, funded largely by the Department for Education at around £3.2m a year. It is a single-lot framework that runs to 1 November 2032, with no extension.
Context & Use Case
The county council uses the framework to commission adult learning across West Sussex, buying courses that build skills, help residents into work and support progression. Call-off contracts are awarded to framework providers for specific community and skills programmes, so a place on the framework is the starting point for each piece of commissioned provision.
Scope of Services
Adult Skills Fund provision Free Courses for Jobs delivery Skills Bootcamps Tailored and community-based learning programmes 16 to 19 study programmes Employment support services
Lots
Single lot
Who Can Apply
Colleges, independent training providers, community learning organisations and voluntary sector groups with a record in adult education. Because it is an open framework, new providers can usually apply to join while it remains open, rather than waiting for a full re-tender. Check the notice for the current application window.
Buyer Benefits
The council can place DfE-funded adult learning with providers already vetted for quality and safeguarding, and add new providers as local need changes. A single framework covers both informal community learning and regulated provision, so commissioners can fund very different programmes through one route and compare outcomes across providers.
Next Steps
Read the Find a Tender notice (038617-2024) for the selection criteria and how applications are submitted. Decide which programme strands you can deliver in West Sussex and gather achievement, progression and learner-destination data. If you hold an ESFA contract or an Ofsted grade, have the evidence ready, then apply while the framework is open to new entrants before 1 November 2032.
How Athena Can Help
For training providers aiming to join this open framework, Athena handles the application end to end through our framework registration service: selection questions, narrative responses on learner outcomes and safeguarding, and a compliance check before you submit.
Once appointed, the council commissions programmes through call-offs, and our bid writers and reviewers can sharpen each proposal against the scoring criteria. If you are unsure whether adult skills commissioning suits your organisation, our bid/no-bid support helps you decide before committing time.
