Nexus Multi Academy Trust ICT Framework: Scope, Buyers, Timeline and How to Prepare

Nexus Multi Academy Trust (Nexus) has published a planned procurement notice for its upcoming Framework Agreement for ICT Products, Solutions, Services and Support. The framework has an estimated total value of £1 billion including VAT, will run for four years, and is scheduled for tender publication on 2 March 2026.

The framework will operate under a Neutral Vendor Managed Service (NVMS) model and will be established directly by Nexus, but crucially will be open for use across the wider public sector, not just education.

Who Are Nexus Multi Academy Trust?

Nexus Multi Academy Trust is a well-established and procurement-mature MAT, recognised through:

• CIPS Procurement Excellence Programme accreditation, supported by the DfE ESCC/TALI initiative
• Membership of the Positive Change Alliance (PCA), a collaboration of 10 MATs representing over 100 schools

This positioning gives Nexus strong credibility as a framework-owning authority, rather than simply a single organisational buyer.

Nexus has identified the ongoing need for a compliant, flexible and scalable route to market for ICT products and services that can meet the diverse requirements of schools, education bodies and other public sector organisations.

Who Can Use the Nexus ICT Framework?

Although education-led, the framework will be open to all public sector contracting authorities, including:

• Multi-academy trusts, academies and schools
• Further and higher education institutions
• Local authorities and associated bodies
• Other bodies governed by public law

This significantly broadens the potential call-off volume and makes the framework commercially attractive well beyond the education sector.

What Is the Neutral Vendor Managed Service Model?

The framework will appoint a single framework supplier to operate as a neutral vendor, rather than a direct reseller or manufacturer-aligned provider.

Under this model, the appointed supplier will be responsible for:

• Impartially managing and integrating competing manufacturers and sub-contractors
• Ensuring customer choice, competition and best value at call-off stage
• Coordinating delivery, support, maintenance and interoperability across ICT categories

This approach is designed to improve transparency, avoid vendor lock-in and simplify procurement for end users, while maintaining competitive tension within the supply chain.

Proposed Scope of the Framework

The framework is expected to provide a compliant route to market for a wide range of ICT products, solutions and services, including (but not limited to):

• End-user devices and peripherals
• Networking, infrastructure and connectivity solutions
• Cloud and on-premise software and licensing
• Cyber security and data protection solutions
• Managed ICT services and support
• Design, implementation, integration and lifecycle services

Further detail, including final scope and any service boundaries, will be confirmed in the UK4 Tender Notice and supporting procurement documentation.

Key Procurement Details and Timeline

The framework will be procured using the Competitive Flexible Procedure under the Procurement Act 2023.

Indicative Procurement Timeline

With a single-supplier model and a high-value framework, bid quality and strategic positioning will be critical.

Why This Framework Matters for ICT Suppliers

This framework is notable for several reasons:

• Single-supplier appointment, increasing competitive pressure
• Neutral vendor delivery, requiring strong supply chain management capability
• Cross-public-sector access, expanding the addressable market
• High value but fixed term, making early success commercially significant

Suppliers will need to demonstrate not just ICT capability, but maturity in governance, commercial transparency, supplier management and service integration.

How Thornton & Lowe Can Support Nexus Framework Bids

Thornton & Lowe supports ICT suppliers, managed service providers and neutral vendors bidding for complex education and public sector frameworks.

Framework and Neutral Vendor Strategy

We help suppliers assess whether a neutral vendor model is right for them and how to position their offer credibly.

Bid Writing and Tender Support

Our bid writing team supports suppliers through participation and award stages, ensuring responses are compliant, evidence-led and aligned to evaluation criteria.

SME and Supply-Chain Positioning

We also support SMEs and specialist providers positioning themselves within neutral vendor supply chains.

Tender Pipeline Monitoring

Through Tender Pipeline, suppliers can track updates to this framework and related ICT and education opportunities.

Bid Training and Long-Term Capability

We help teams build long-term bid capability through training and mentoring.

Final Thoughts

The Nexus Multi Academy Trust ICT framework is a strategically important procurement with unusually wide reach across education and the wider public sector. Its scale, neutral vendor structure and single-supplier appointment mean it will suit only those suppliers with the right commercial maturity and delivery capability.

Suppliers considering this opportunity should use the period before March 2026 to prepare thoroughly.

If you want support with strategy, bid preparation or submission, Thornton & Lowe can support you from early planning through to framework award.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can use the Nexus ICT framework?
Education bodies and wider public sector organisations.

How many suppliers will be appointed?
One framework supplier operating a neutral vendor managed service.

What procurement procedure is being used?
The Competitive Flexible Procedure under the Procurement Act 2023.

When does the framework start?
1 September 2026.