NAVIGATE THE NEW PROCUREMENT ACT WITH CONFIDENCE
Procurement Support for Schools and Trusts
Since 24 February 2025, the Procurement Act 2023 has applied to nearly all public sector contracts – including those awarded by academy trusts – with only limited exemptions.
The Procurement Act 2023: What You Need to Know
The Act introduces a more transparent, competitive, and value-driven procurement framework. It encourages schools and trusts to move beyond the traditional “lowest price wins” approach and instead focus on long-term value. This includes factors such as lifecycle cost, operational (OPEX) savings, and return on investment.
“The Procurement Act is a chance for schools to do more than just save money —
it’s about choosing suppliers that deliver lasting value.”
— Tim Warneford
Warneford’s Approach to Compliant Procurement
At Warneford Consulting, rigorous due diligence has always been at the core of how we select suppliers. With the new Act and DfE expectations, we’ve strengthened our process further.
Comprehensive Pre-Vetting
Contractors, consultants, and supply chains are assessed for quality, financial stability, and proven delivery.
Delta eSourcing Platform
Adopted to ensure transparent and fair tender management in line with public sector best practice.
Two-Stage Supplier Questionnaire
- SQ1: Pre-qualification (financials, insurance, experience)
- SQ2: Project-specific, weighted evaluation
For Suppliers: Get Tender-Ready
Suppliers interested in future tender opportunities through Warneford Consulting must complete the following steps:
- Register with the Government’s Central Digital Platform
- Sign up with Delta eSourcing
- Request access to Warneford tender opportunities by emailing:
DMPadmin@warnefordconsulting.com
Only registered suppliers will be considered for upcoming contract opportunities.
Tender Support for Academy Trusts
The DfE is actively reminding academy trusts of their obligation to conduct robust, transparent, and defensible procurement. Failure to meet this standard has already resulted in the withdrawal of capital funding in several 2024 cases.
Warneford Consulting supports trusts through this complex and evolving landscape by:
- Scoping needs and developing clear procurement objectives
- Managing the full tendering process, from specification to supplier award
- Ensuring compliance with both the Procurement Act 2023 and the Academy Trust Handbook
Also of interest: TTN Webinar on Martyn’s Law — a valuable resource for schools reviewing safeguarding and security-related procurement.
Let us help your trust achieve compliant, strategic procurement that delivers long-term value — not just short-term savings.
Contact us today to learn how we can support your next procurement project.
Your Next Step
The Procurement Act has raised the bar — but it doesn’t have to raise your stress levels. With years of experience guiding schools and trusts through funding and compliance challenges, we combine sector insight with a hands-on approach that makes the complex feel manageable.
Whether you’re preparing your first tender under the new rules or reviewing your current processes, we’ll help you stay compliant, protect funding, and unlock long-term value for your trust.