Key lessons learned include:

Competitive Dialogue: Depending upon the delegations and recommendations in the Cabinet Decision at Selected Bidder stage, the PfS view is that Alcatel should take place at Selected Bidder stage rather than later. However local authorities should take their own legal advice on the timing of Alcatel;

Have plans in place for the Local Education Partnership (LEP) operation: Remember that procurement in BSF is all about what the LEP can deliver, not just about setting it up. The project board should be considering the arrangements for the Strategic Partnering Board as early as possible. Think about partnering - what do you expect, what do you want to receive from your LEP partner? It is important that you don't rely on the bidders to tell you what partnering is and have a clear focus as to what you are looking for prior to entering procurement. Consider whether it might be appropriate to establish a "Shadow LEP" between selected bidder and financial close so that the partnership is being developed alongside the final negotiations.

Debrief unsuccessful bidders: As well as the official required documentation, aim to debrief the unsuccessful bidders formally and comprehensively after the preferred bidder has been chosen. This feedback will be greatly appreciated by the unsuccessful bidders and will help inform their future bid strategies. Obviously, LAs need to comply with procurement regulations when informing bidders, but it may well be best to leave a full feedback session until a couple of weeks after the preferred bidder has been announced.

The appointment of an effective LEP manager is key. The right LEP manager can become a local champion, can advise schools, organise subcontracts, pull everything together, manage KPIs, and hold contractors to account on behalf of schools.