II.2.2) Additional CPV code(s)
80000000
II.2.3) Place of performance
NUTS code:
UK
II.2.4) Description of the procurement
The aim of this procurement process is to invite bids for the provision of Design, Development & Maintenance of the Test of Competence
Following the PIN published on FTS on 25 October 2022, Notice reference: 2022/S 000-030010 the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) is undertaking a competitive tender process under the Open Procedure, in accordance with the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 (the "Regulations").
The test of competence currently comprises two elements. The first element is a computer based test (the 'CBT') which comprises of a number of multiple choice questions designed to assess applicants' theoretical knowledge and numerical understanding; we allow candidates 3 hours to complete the CBT. The second element is the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (the 'OSCE') which is a practical simulated assessment of the applicants' practical skills and knowledge. The OSCE comprises 10 stations, with a total testing time of approximately 3 hours. For further information about the Test of Competence, please visit our website: Test of Competence 2021 - The Nursing and Midwifery Council (https://www.nmc.org.uk/).
The Supplier is required to maintain, review develop test content for the following tests of competence:
(a) A modular test of competence for nurses who trained outside the United Kingdom and whose qualifications have not been assessed as comparable to a qualification awarded in the UK, or who have previously been registered but who do not meet our standards for readmission. The test must comprise of a CBT and an OSCE. Separate tests of competence must be designed for applicants to all four fields of the nursing profession, namely:
• Adult nursing;
• Children's nursing;
• Mental health nursing;
• Learning disability nursing;
(b) A modular test of competence for those applying to the nursing associate part of the register who trained outside England and whose qualifications have not been assessed as comparable to a qualification awarded in England, or who have previously been registered but who do not meet our standards for readmission. The test must comprise of a CBT and an OSCE.
(c) A modular test of competence for midwives who trained outside the United Kingdom and whose qualifications have not been assessed as comparable to a qualification awarded in the UK, or who have previously been registered but who do not meet our standards for readmission. The test must comprise a CBT and an OSCE.
(d) An aptitude test for nurses, midwives and nursing associates who trained within the EU or EEA and applied to NMC before 1 January 2021, where shortfalls have been identified between their qualification and a qualification awarded in the UK. The aptitude test must be designed so that applicants can be tested by taking all or part of the test of competence for nurses, midwives or nursing associates who trained outside the EU or EEA (see above). The need for this aptitude test is subject to the continued applicability of the Recognition of Qualifications Directive [2005/36/EC]. To note, the number of candidates who take the aptitude test is small compared to the number of overseas candidates who take the test of competence.
For more information about this tender opportunity, visit the Atamis e-Sourcing portal at the below link:
Responses to the ITT are to be completed electronically using the NMC's e-sourcing portal https://nmcprocurementportal.force.com/s/Welcome ('e-Sourcing Portal')
The e-Sourcing Portal provides a web-based tool that enables the NMC and candidates and tenderers to conduct the strategic activities of the procurement lifecycle over the internet. It provides a simple, secure, and efficient means for managing tendering and quotation activities, reducing the time and effort required for both the NMC (and other buyers) and potential providers / suppliers.
Please note the following project name and reference number allocated to this procurement process ('Procurement') within the e-Sourcing Portal:
Project Name: The Provision of Design, Development & Maintenance of the Test of Competence
Project Reference: C1122
Before completing their Tender Submission, potential candidates and tenderers should ensure that the email address that has been used to register will be checked regularly. Candidates and tenderers should also check that their organisation details are correct and up to date
II.2.5) Award criteria
Price is not the only award criterion and all criteria are stated only in the procurement documents
II.2.7) Duration of the contract, framework agreement or dynamic purchasing system
Duration in months: 36
This contract is subject to renewal: No
II.2.9) Information about the limits on the number of candidates to be invited
II.2.10) Information about variants
Variants will be accepted:
No
II.2.11) Information about options
Options:
Yes
Description of options:
The NMC may extend the Initial Term for a further period of up to one (1) Year in total subject to agreement with the Supplier
The anticipated contract value for the three-year term including VAT is estimated at £1,000,000.
II.2.13) Information about European Union funds
The procurement is related to a project and/or programme financed by European Union funds:
No