Funded Early Learning and Childcare Places Framework Agreement - Reopening May 2026

What this is

Scottish Borders Council is reopening its Funded Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) Framework (ref SBC/CPS/1815) to new providers from voluntary, independent and private settings to provide Early Learning and Childcare for 2, 3 and 4-year-old children. The framework uses the Light Touch Regime under Schedule 3 of the Public Contracts (Scotland) Regulations. All providers who apply and meet national standards, legislation and Council requirements and accept the rates and contract terms shall be accepted onto the framework. Estimated value £3,000,000 over 12 months per lot, 2 lots: Nursery Services and Childminder Services.

Key points

• Light Touch Regime ELC framework re-opening — all compliant providers admitted (no competitive scoring); 2 lots: Nursery Services and Childminder Services
• Scottish Borders Council; children aged 2-4; voluntary, independent and private providers eligible
• PCS-Tender Project Code 31480; deadline 01 June 2026

Who can bid

Light Touch Regime (Schedule 3 Public Contracts (Scotland) Regulations). Open to voluntary, independent and private ELC providers. Providers must meet national standards, legislation and Council procedural requirements. All compliant providers admitted. Financial standing evidence required if standard accounts unavailable. PCS-Tender Project Code 31480. Buyer: Scottish Borders Council.

How it is scored

All providers meeting national standards, legislation and Council procedural requirements and accepting the rates/contract terms set by the Council are admitted to the framework — no competitive scoring. Light Touch Regime approach.

Money

Estimated total value £3,000,000. Light Touch Regime — above threshold but using Schedule 3 flexibility. No EU funding.

How to submit

Submission via PCS-Tender (search Project Code 31480). Deadline: 01 June 2026.

Clarifications

Via PCS-Tender portal. Contact Scottish Borders Council, Council Headquarters.

Contract period

Duration: 12 months per lot. Framework reopening supplements existing SBC/CPS/1815 framework. 2 lots: Lot 1 Nursery Services, Lot 2 Childminder Services. Covers early learning for 2, 3 and 4-year-old children.

Classification

CPV 85312110 — Child day-care services 80110000 — Pre-primary education services ScotlandScottish Borders