Decision details

Continuation of the Step Up to Social Work Programme

Decision Maker: Deputy Leader (responsible for Children and Education)

Decision status: Recommendations Approved

Is Key decision?: Yes

Is subject to call in?: Yes

Purpose:

The Step Up to Social Work Programme is a fully funded training programme for social workers. The current contract is due to expire so we are seeking approval for an extension of the existing contract with the University of Hertfordshire to deliver the Step Up to Social Work Programme, in line with the continued funding from the Department of Education (DfE).

Decision:

  1. Approves the extension of the contract between the Council and the University of Hertfordshire for the delivery of the Step Up to Social Work programme for a period of 2 years from 26 June 2025 - 25 June 2027, at a cost of £399,072.

 

  1. Approves delegated authority for future contract extensions to the Operational Director for Children and Young People’s Services.

 

Reasons for the decision:

The current contract with University of Hertfordshire was awarded in 2024, following a competitive procurement process. The initial contract term expires in June 2025, with the option to extend twice, for 2 years per extension, to align with the DfE funding.

 

Alternative options considered:

Option 1: Continue the current contract with University of Hertfordshire (Recommended)

 

Option 2: Do not continue the contract with University of Hertfordshire (Not Recommended)

 

Publication date: 02/05/2025

Date of decision: 01/05/2025

Effective from: 09/05/2025

Accompanying Documents: