Purpose

The LCC Training Framework was established in July 2026 to
ensure a compliant process is in place to support the
procurement and delivery of Learning and Development
Training Courses and Qualifications across Lincolnshire County
Council’s Children’s Services and the wider Council.
A procurement exercise (Call-Off) has been conducted in
accordance with the Terms and Conditions of the LCC Training
Framework to support the delivery of the RQF Level 3 Diploma
for Residential Care Officers. Following evaluation of bids, Acorn
Training Ltd has been identified as submitting the most
advantageous tender.
The award of this Call-Off Contract will ensure Residential Care
Officers have access to undertake the RQF Level 3 Diploma
Qualification, and that the Council ensures its statutory
obligations are met.
Allowing this award will ensure the Council remains compliant
with the Procurement Act 2023 (PA 2023) and its own Contract
Procurement and Procedure Rules (CPPR).

Decision

That the Deputy Executive Director – Children's Services
approves the award of Call-Off Contract 3D – RQF Level 3
Residential Care Diploma in accordance with the LCC Training
Framework to Acorn Training Ltd for a period of two years
effective from October 2026 to September 2028 with the
option to extend for up to a further one year until September
2029.
The Contract is for the provision of eighty-eight Level 3
Diplomas per annum, for Residential Care Officers based at
the Lincolnshire Secure Unit/ Millennium Lodge and the
Lincolnshire Residential Children’s Homes. The price per
Diploma is £1,199 and the maximum Contract Value shall not
exceed £302,148 (exclusive of VAT).

Alternative options considered

Do not award this Call-Off Contract – this was rejected as the
Council has undertaken a competitive call-off exercise, under
the terms and conditions of the LCC Training Framework,
receiving two Supplier bid submissions, and identified Acorn
Training Ltd as the successful bidder.