The Evidence Centre is looking to commission a call-off contract to provide a range of evidence on training features and approaches . The exact focus of this project is yet to be defined, but may include both Rapid Evidence Assessments and evidence-based thinkpieces into different elements of training for civil servants, including training modalities (facilitation, coaching etc), training features (e.g. Action Learning Sets, Communities of Practice), and other approaches (e.g. train-the-trainer approaches). The main focus of this contract is providing high-quality evidence so we can understand 'what works' in certain training elements and when they can best be implemented, with a secondary focus (for certain elements) on assessing how they can be evaluated. A smaller, but still important, part of this study is working with staff and using Knowledge Mobilisation expertise to ensure evidence from this study is embedded into Evidence Centre processes. Suppliers interested in this work will be expected to have expertise in conducting high quality research, primarily in Rapid Evidence Assessments. The Evidence Centre aims to commission a suite of research and evaluation covering a new digital, data, innovation and AI (DDI/AI) learning offer for Senior Civil Servants. This programme is in the design phase and will be rolled out from January 2027 onwards. The suite of research and evaluation is still to be finalised but is likely to include multiple elements, such as test-and-learn research, feasibility study, process evaluation and impact evaluation. The exact scope of work may be subject to change. Prospective suppliers must possess the necessary capability to execute a rigorous training intervention evaluation, including demonstrated experience in designing and delivering randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi-experimental evaluations. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a solid background in designing and delivering test-and-learn initiatives, practical experience evaluating programs within complex public sector or Civil Service environments, and proven expertise in AI, data, digital, and innovation upskilling. We are carrying out a mutli-strand portfolio of evaluation assessing the National School and its transformation. Our working assumption is that our commission will have two separate workpackages: Work Package 1: Economic Advice. Advice on the economic evaluation of the new institution, most likely using a Value for Investment (VfI) approach Work Package 2: Main Transformation Evaluation. Independent, theory based evaluation of the transformation of Government Skills to the National School Work Package 1 is a small-scale piece of work to provide assurance that the initial steps of a proposed economic evaluation using the VFI approach (being conducted internally) have been completed in line with best practice, and support setting appropriate measures to allow robust judgements for The National School's performance against each of the Es. Work Package 1 will require suppliers to have experience of working on evaluations using the VFI approach. Work Package 2 is a substantial piece of work to provide evidence of how well the National School is delivering against transformation commitments. This Work Package requires a theory based approach to reviewing implementation (assessing activities and outputs in the theory of change) and providing evidence on early indicators of value from users, to support the VfI approach in Work Package 1. The supplier will provide interim findings and a full report in the initial term. Work Package 2 will require suppliers to have high-quality theory-based evaluation expertise, including evaluating genuinely complex strategic interventions, and economic evaluation to continue the VfI approach. We will also expect suppliers to have strong experience of conducting evaluations in complex Civil Service or public sector settings

To be procured via GCA's Research & Insights RM6126

To be precured through GCA's Research & Insights (RM6126) Framework

Work Package 1: Economic Advice

To be procured through GCA's Research and Insights (RM6126) Framework

Work Package 2: Main Transformation Evaluation.

To be procured through GCA's Research & Insights (RM6126) Framework.