Accredited learning programmes across the policy profession

The Civil Service Policy Profession consists of around 38,500 civil servants making it the second largest profession in government. It has a presence across the regions and nations of the UK. The work of policy professionals has a profound impact on the lives of people across the country. Upskilling policy makers will mean they develop better policies that will deliver better outcomes for the public. The Policy Profession Unit, which is part of the Department for Education but works on behalf of policy professionals across government, has responsibility for overseeing the development of the Policy Profession. This includes building the skills and capability of individual policy makers at different stages of their careers. We are seeking to partner with higher education institution(s) to develop and deliver, from September 2027, accredited programmes at postgraduate level that build the skills and capabilities of UK civil servants in line with the Policy Profession Standards. This procurement consists of two lots: Lot 1 and Lot 2. Suppliers may bid for either or both lots, and we expect any bids covering both lots to include a proposed discount structure. Lot 1 (itt_3995): The procurement of a contract for five cohorts for an accredited 180-credit Master’s course, with one cohort per academic year from AY 2027/28, designed for experienced civil service policy leaders. It will aim to strengthen advanced policy capability, enabling leaders to apply academic rigour and best practice to complex government policy challenges while continuing in their roles. Lot 2 (itt_3999): Lot 2 is for a postgraduate accredited learning offer for civil service policy professionals, including standalone modules, a Postgraduate Award, Certificate and Diploma for experienced practitioners. It also includes a separate 30-credit Postgraduate Award for Government Policy Fast Streamers, delivered to an annual cohort on a structured three-year timetable. The Department for Education will hold th