South Ayrshire Council has published a procurement opportunity for re-opening of the south ayrshire local employability partnership (salep) trusted partner flexible framework agreement (ffa) with an estimated value of an undisclosed value. The submission deadline is 15 May 2026, giving eligible UK suppliers a limited window to prepare and submit bids through the official Find a Tender portal.

Published on 2026-04-09, this contract is open to suitably qualified suppliers across the United Kingdom. All businesses interested in bidding should review the full tender documentation and confirm they meet all eligibility requirements before the closing date.

Contract overview

South Ayrshire Council are re-opening the South Ayrshire Local Employability Partnership (SALEP) Trusted Partner Flexible Framework Agreement (FFA) and are seeking submissions from suitably qualified and experienced training providers, the third sector and other organisations to supplement its existing Flexible Framework Agreement to deliver all-age, person-centred programme of support to those looking to gain the relevant skills and knowledge to progress to meaningful, sustainable employment.

South Ayrshire Council is the contracting authority. The estimated value is an undisclosed value and the deadline is 15 May 2026. Download the full specification from the official portal before preparing a bid.

Is your business eligible?

This contract is most relevant to training providers, educational organisations, e-learning companies. Suppliers typically need to demonstrate experience delivering similar contracts, appropriate financial standing, and hold Ofsted registration, relevant accreditations.

Under the Procurement Act 2023, South Ayrshire Council must actively consider SME participation. Check whether this contract has been structured into lots.

• Proven track record in education & training contracts of comparable scope
• Financial standing appropriate for a an undisclosed value contract
• Relevant certifications: Ofsted registration, relevant accreditations
• Capacity to mobilise within South Ayrshire Council’s required timeframe
• Ability to meet the 15 May 2026 submission deadline

How to submit a bid

• Step 1 — Access the notice: Visit Find a Tender at https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/032414-2026
• Step 2 — Register free: Create or log in to your supplier account
• Step 3 — Download documents: Read the full ITT before preparing your response
• Step 4 — Raise clarifications: Submit questions early — Q&A typically closes 1–2 weeks before the deadline
• Step 5 — Submit before 15 May 2026: Late submissions are not accepted

What the buyer will evaluate

South Ayrshire Council will assess all compliant bids against published criteria. Buyers typically apply a 60% quality and 40% price weighting. Under the Procurement Act 2023, social value is a mandatory evaluation criterion.

Writing a winning bid

• Lead with an executive summary addressing South Ayrshire Council’s objectives directly
• Provide two or more case studies with measurable outcomes from comparable contracts
• Include specific, costed social value commitments
• Price to win but ensure your margin covers full delivery
• Submit at least 24 hours before 15 May 2026

Frequently asked questions

Can SMEs bid for this contract?

Yes. The Procurement Act 2023 requires South Ayrshire Council to consider SME suitability and remove unnecessary barriers.

Is registration on the portal free?

Yes. Registering as a supplier on Find a Tender is completely free.

What happens if I miss the 15 May 2026 deadline?

Late submissions are not accepted. The deadline is absolute. Submit at least 24 hours early.

Where are the full tender documents?

All documents are on the official Find a Tender listing at https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/032414-2026.

This article is for informational purposes only. Always verify all details on the official procurement portal before submitting a bid. Kael Tripton is not affiliated with or endorsed by South Ayrshire Council or the UK government.