Purpose

This report sets out the proposed procurement strategy and request to directly award a contract for the commissioning of a cloud-based Children’s Education Management System to NEC Software Solutions Limited.

The system will support the Council’s Education services such Admissions, Special Educational Needs (SEN), Children (Pupils) and Learning, Commissioning and Inclusion in carrying out their statutory operational duties.

If approved, NEC Software Solutions Limited (formerly CACI) will continue to provide access to the Impulse Nexus education management information system.

The proposed procurement route will use the Government Commercial Agency eMarketplace under (GCA) Vertical Application Solutions (VAS) framework RM6259, Lot 2: Education, Community Health and Social Care Solutions, as described within this report.

The proposed contract term will be for a period of 3 years with 1 optional 12 month extension option, commencing 1st July 2026, for a total value of £499,924 (excluding VAT).

The combined procurement strategy and award report is presented to the Chief Experience and Information Officer for approval in line with Contract Standing Orders.

Decision

THAT the Chief Experience and Information Officer approve the following (and notes any exceptions or relevant impact):
 

1. The procurement strategy for the commissioning of a cloud-based Children’s Education Management System using the Government Commercial Agency, Vertical Applications Framework (VAS)
2. The award of contract to NEC Software Solutions Limited for a contract term of 36 months, plus 1 optional 12 month extension period, for an aggregated value of £499,924 (excluding VAT).