Decision

To award the contract to 2 Start Ltd to deliver x6 Urban Driver Level 2 apprenticeships with the value of £48,000 supported via the Apprenticeship Levy, any additional costs relating to these apprenticeships will be supported by the councils and A&W budgets. This is standard process and in line with our apprenticeship policy and employer duties in relationship to supporting staff to complete apprenticeships.  The additional costs will include a medical of £250.00 per learner ( pre requisite for health reasons) and any second attempt resits ( provider will cover first) of practical exams including theory test, A&W councils will only support one re-sit per learner after that the individual would be required to cover these costs.

Reasons for the decision

The decision to award this contract is based on an assessment and engagement of 5 potential providers, with 3 providers short listed and further interviewed by the Waste Manager. The chosen provider delivers the best overall experience for our staff. Delivering these apprenticeships supports the reduction in budget required to pay for commercial training and supports the council's ambition to deliver further development opportunities via apprenticeships. This delivery also supports our L&D Priorities outlined in the L&D delivery plan.

Alternative options considered

4 other providers were considered and assessment as part of the research and engagement it was felt the overall offering wasn’t as suitable in terms of fit/delivery as the chosen provider.