SOLAS Support Services for Apprenticeship Services

AI-generated analysis of the documents. Check the official notice and any amendments for current submission details.

1. At a glance

Buyer Title CPV / category Estimated value Per-year Procedure type Lots Location Contract length Submission deadline Go-live / start |------------------|-----------------------------------------------|----------------|-----------------|----------|----------------|------|----------|------------------|-------------------------------|------------------| SOLAS Support Services for Apprenticeship Services IT & Software not disclosed not stated Open not stated not stated 12 months (with possible 6-month extension) 2024-10-01 12:00:00 not stated

2. Scope of Work

The contract involves providing support services for apprenticeship services, aimed at enhancing the operational efficiency and effectiveness of apprenticeship programs. The contractor will be responsible for a range of activities that include:

• Management of Apprenticeship Programs: Overseeing the administration and coordination of apprenticeship services.
• Client Interaction: Engaging with apprentices and employers to facilitate communication and resolve issues.
• Data Management: Maintaining accurate records of apprentices, including progress tracking and reporting.
• Training Coordination: Organizing training sessions and workshops for apprentices, ensuring alignment with industry standards.
• Quality Assurance: Implementing quality control measures to ensure the delivery of high-standard apprenticeship services.
• Reporting: Providing regular updates and reports to SOLAS on program performance and outcomes.

The contractor will work closely with SOLAS and other stakeholders to ensure that the apprenticeship services meet the required standards and objectives.

3. Background & buyer context

This procurement is initiated to enhance the delivery of apprenticeship services in Ireland, aligning with national educational and workforce development policies. SOLAS, as the national agency for further education and training, aims to improve the quality and accessibility of apprenticeship programs. The contract is part of a broader strategy to support the Government's commitment to developing a skilled workforce. There is no mention of an incumbent provider for these services.

4. Eligibility & selection criteria

Bidders must meet the following eligibility and selection criteria:

• Turnover requirement: Minimum average annual turnover of €200,000 for each of the last three years.
• Insurance:
• Professional Liability: €1m for any one claim or series of claims arising out of a single occurrence.
• Public Liability: €6.5m for any one claim or series of claims arising out of a single occurrence.
• Employers Liability: €12.7m for any one claim or series of claims arising out of a single occurrence.
• Certifications: Not specified for this tender.
• Past experience: Minimum of three comparable projects within the last three years.
• Personnel: Not specified for this tender.
• Geographic / facility constraints: Not specified for this tender.

5. Award criteria & scoring

Bids will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

The overall evaluation will follow a Most Economically Advantageous Tender (MEAT) approach.

6. Submission requirements

Bidders must submit the following documents:

• Method statement / response document: Follow the provided template with no specified page limit.
• CVs: For key personnel involved, no specified page limit.
• Pricing schedule: Must use the designated template.
• Case studies: Three relevant projects, demonstrating experience in similar roles.
• Declarations: Including ESPD, Bona Fides, Tax clearance, and Conflict of Interest.
• Mandatory site visit: Not applicable for this tender.
• Submission portal: All submissions must be made via eTenders.

7. Key dates & process

8. Contract terms that matter

Key contract terms include:

• Term and extension: Initial term of 12 months, with the possibility of two 6-month extensions.
• Payment terms: Payments will be made following the Services Contract.
• Key SLAs/KPIs: Not specified in the documents.
• Liquidated damages: Not specified in the documents.
• Termination clauses: SOLAS reserves the right to terminate with 14 days' notice.
• IP ownership: Not specified in the documents.
• Sub-contracting rules: Allowed, but the Prime Contractor must manage all communications.

9. Risks, red flags & unusuals

Potential risks and concerns include:

• The turnover requirement of €200,000 may limit participation from smaller firms.
• Lack of specified certifications may lead to uncertainty regarding compliance expectations.
• The absence of detailed SLAs/KPIs could lead to ambiguity in performance expectations.
• The contract's reliance on the successful management of apprenticeship programs may pose challenges for firms without prior experience in this specific area.

10. SME fit assessment

This tender is suitable for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that have:

• Experience in managing apprenticeship or training programs.
• The capacity to meet the insurance and turnover requirements.
• A strong understanding of the educational sector and apprenticeship frameworks.
• Subcontracting is permitted, allowing smaller firms to collaborate with others to meet requirements.
• Bid preparation may require several days to compile the necessary documentation and case studies.
• The presence of a potential incumbent may indicate a competitive environment, but the absence of a specified incumbent allows for opportunities for new entrants.

11. Where to dig deeper

• Source RFT filename: 2412-SO-E - Apprenticeship Support_CfT.pdf
• eTenders CFT ID: not specified
• Contact email or clarification portal: Queries must be directed through the messaging facility on www.etenders.gov.ie.
• Important attachments: Appendix 1 - Requirements and Specifications, Appendix 3 - Tenderer’s Statement, Appendix 4 - Declaration.