Research and analysis

NMSS and children's homes: regional dynamic purchasing systems

Research into using a regional dynamic purchasing system (DPS) in non-maintained special schools (NMSS) and independent children’s homes.

From:
Department for Education
Published
3 November 2016

Applies to England

Documents

Developing a regional dynamic purchasing system

Ref: ISBN 978-1-78105-574-8, DFE-RR522

PDF, 1.34 MB, 47 pages

Details

A dynamic purchasing system (DPS) is a way to contract works, services and goods commonly available on the market.

This project involved 6 local authority groups working together to set up a DPS in independent and non-maintained special schools (NMSS) and in independent children’s homes.

The evaluation looked mainly at the process of establishing a DPS.

It explores:

  • if the DPS was established on time and in budget
  • what worked well and what could have been improved
  • effects of the DPS on efficiency, collaboration, innovation, value for money and outcomes
  • how to best evaluate the DPS

A NMSS is a school for children with special educational needs that the Secretary of State for Education has approved under section 342 of the Education Act 1996.

Published 3 November 2016

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