Modified Tests Framework

The Standards and Testing Agency (STA), an Executive Agency of the Department for Education (DfE) is looking to re-establish a Modified Tests Framework for the development and delivery of modified versions of Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 National Curriculum Tests for children with visual and hearing impairments. The new framework will be for four years from 31 January 2019 to 1 February 2023.

Successful suppliers will be required to provide modified versions of standard tests in various formats. At present, modified versions are required for all national curriculum tests including the following: the Phonics Screening Check (braille version only); Key Stage 1 tests in English Reading, Mathematics and English Grammar Punctuation and Spelling; Key Stage 2 tests in English Reading, Mathematics and English Grammar Punctuation and Spelling; and Key Stage 2 Science sampling tests. However, this is subject to change depending on government policy. The tests required for modification will be specified in each call off.

Suppliers will also be expected to provide:

• amendments to the standard marking guidance to enable consistent marking of the modified versions of the tests; • a specialist helpline service for schools and other users of modified tests; • logging modified tests order information on STA's test order website and providing order updates directly to STA's website to an agreed schedule; and • an on-demand past paper service to schools.

The required services include (but are not limited to): GENERAL • Project Management • Management Information • Security • Equalities • Business Continuity • Resources • Quality Assurance • Exit and Transition

TECHNICAL • Expertise • Modified Tests Process • Guidance materials for administration and marking of modified tests • Braille papers • Modified Large Print • Materials to support hearing impaired • Specialist helpline • Order management • Past Paper Service • Delivery requirements • Downloadable electronic versions of test materials (under STA consideration) • Performance and quality requirements

Additional information: The total value of the work over four years is expected to be a maximum of £5,000,000.

Indicative Procurement Timeline

Activity Date Issue ITT 23/07/2018 Supplier Briefing 16/08/2018 Deadline for clarification questions 28/09/2018 Closing date for bids 12 noon, 15/10/2018 Award notices 28/11/2018

As outlined above, the Department is planning to hold a Supplier Briefing event in order to engage with potential suppliers of the services subject to tender. This event will take place on 16 August between 13:30-15:30 at STA offices in Coventry (Earlsdon Park, 53-55 Butts Road, Coventry CV1 3BH). If you are a supplier interested in attending the supplier briefing, please send an email expressing your interest together with your contact details, a brief overview of your organisation and specific interest in this procurement to [email protected] and [email protected].

START AND END DATES OF THE CONTRACT: 31/01/2019 - 01/02/2023