West Sussex County Council has launched an Independent Alternative Provision Open Framework with an estimated value of £224.595 million. The framework is designed to support learners who need education outside mainstream or special school settings, including pupils with SEND, social, emotional and mental health needs, autism and Education Otherwise Than At School arrangements.
The most important feature for providers is the entry model. The framework is described as permanently open, with quarterly evaluations, so organisations can apply during its life rather than relying on one short application window.
If your provision fits one or more WSCC tiers, speak to Thornton & Lowe about preparing a clear, evidence-led framework application.
Four service tiers, not separate lots
The framework does not use conventional lots. Instead, providers can apply for one or more service tiers and can request to add further tiers during the framework term.
The four tiers are:
- Tier 1: Provision commissioned by schools for learners at risk of placement breakdown
- Tier 2: Transitional placements commissioned by the Council while a permanent education setting is sought
- Tier 3: Provision commissioned by the Council for learners with an agreed EOTAS package
- Tier 4: Specialist targeted support for learners supported by a multidisciplinary team
This structure means providers should make a deliberate decision about which tiers match their delivery model, staffing and evidence. Applying broadly without equivalent experience could weaken the application.
The official Find a Tender notice explains the open-framework model and confirms that bidders can apply during the framework period.
A permanently open framework
The framework is intended to run initially for two years with extension options that could take it to August 2034. It has no maximum number of suppliers and no supplier fee.
West Sussex describes the arrangement as a Light Touch Regime Open Framework that is permanently open with quarterly evaluations. That is commercially useful for smaller and specialist providers because there is no single point at which the market closes for several years.
The framework is specifically identified as suitable for SMEs and VCSEs. Schools within the relevant geography can use it to commission provision.
For broader guidance on this market, our training and education tenders page covers the evidence public sector education buyers often expect from providers.
Framework admission is 100% quality
The published award criteria are 100% quality. Providers therefore need to focus on the strength, clarity and evidence behind their delivery model rather than trying to compensate for a weak quality submission through price.
The framework has also been updated to align with the Non-School Alternative Provision Voluntary National Standards published in August 2025. Quality and safeguarding should therefore sit at the centre of the response.
Providers should prepare evidence around:
- safeguarding and safer recruitment
- learner risk assessment
- SEND, SEMH and autism support where relevant
- curriculum and learning planning
- attendance and engagement
- progress measurement and reporting
- reintegration or transition planning
- staff qualifications and supervision
- multi-agency working
- quality assurance and continuous improvement
Where claims are made about outcomes, use measurable examples. Attendance improvement, engagement, qualifications, transition success and reduced placement breakdown can all be more persuasive than general statements about personalised support.
Quick facts
- Buyer: West Sussex County Council
- Estimated value: £224.595m
- Framework type: Open framework under the light touch regime
- Service structure: Four tiers
- Maximum suppliers: Unlimited
- Supplier fee: 0%
- Evaluation: 100% quality
- SME and VCSE suitable: Yes
- Geographic restriction: Surrey, East and West Sussex
- Framework status: Permanently open with quarterly evaluations
Use the open model to build a strong application
The permanent entry route reduces the pressure to submit before a once-only deadline, but providers should still treat the application seriously. Admission depends on demonstrating a safe, high-quality and clearly governed provision model that fits the tier selected.
Thornton & Lowe supports education, training and care providers with public sector tenders and framework applications. Contact our bid team if you want an independent review or help developing your WSCC IAP response.
