ASSET for Schools

Attendance collection and monitoring services for vulnerable groups for CIC/CIN/CP/EHCP

ASSET for Schools – Attendance Collection and Monitoring is a secure, cloud-based service for monitoring attendance and attainment across vulnerable cohorts, including CIC/CLA, CIN, CP and EHCP. It provides real-time dashboards, automated alerts, and integrated analytics to support early intervention, safeguarding, and statutory compliance for local authorities.

Features

• Secure UK cloud-based attendance collection for vulnerable cohorts.
• Daily AM and PM attendance data collection workflows.
• Real-time monitoring of attendance, absence, and attainment trends.
• Automated alerts for persistent absence and safeguarding concerns.
• Supports CIC/CLA, CIN, CP and EHCP cohorts.
• MIS data import and secure manual data entry options.
• Role-based access controls with full audit trails.
• Customisable dashboards for local authority and Virtual School users.
• Exportable reports in standard, open data formats.
• Fully hosted service with no local installation required.

Benefits

• Improves attendance oversight across vulnerable children and young people.
• Enables early intervention through real-time alerts and monitoring.
• Reduces manual data collection with automated attendance workflows.
• Strengthens safeguarding through timely absence and risk identification.
• Supports CIC, CIN, CP and EHCP statutory requirements.
• Provides clear evidence for inspections and compliance reporting.
• Enhances collaboration between local authorities and education providers.
• Improves data accuracy with consistent, centralised collection processes.
• Saves staff time through intuitive dashboards and reporting tools.
• Supports better outcomes through informed, evidence-based decision-making.

• Free trial available

Service documents

• Pricing document

  PDF

• Service definition document

  PDF

• Terms and conditions

  PDF

Request an accessible format

If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader) and need versions of these documents in a more accessible format, email the supplier at virtualschools@assetforschools.co.uk. Tell them what format you need. It will help if you say what assistive technology you use.

Framework

G-Cloud 15

Service ID

296189215343959

Contact

James Beasley
02071838357
virtualschools@assetforschools.co.uk

About your service

• Service categories:

  Applications

  Production and operations

  Service industry and public sector operations

  • Education
• Multi cloud support: No

Service scope

• Software add-on or extension: No
• Cloud deployment model: Public cloud
• Service constraints: Not Applicable
• System requirements:
  • Internet Access
  • Login Credentials
  • Email access for notifications and account management
  • Supported modern web browser (e.g. Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Safari)
  • Secure end-user device (desktop, laptop, or tablet)
  • PDF viewer for report downloads
  • Spreadsheet software for exported data (e.g. CSV or Excel files)
  • Screen resolution sufficient to view dashboards and reports
  • No local software installation required

User support

• Email or online ticketing support: Yes
• Support response times: Support requests submitted by email or via the online ticketing system receive an initial response within one working hour during core support hours (08:00–17:00, Monday to Friday). Emails are monitored outside core hours, and for critical incidents, customers are provided with a 24/7 telephone contact to ensure urgent issues are addressed promptly. All requests are logged and tracked through a central ticketing system, prioritised by severity and impact, and escalated where required. Users can view ticket status and receive updates until resolution.
• User can manage status and priority of support tickets: Yes
• Online ticketing support accessibility: WCAG 2.2 AA
• Phone support: Yes
• Phone support availability: 9 to 5 (UK time), 7 days a week
• Web chat support: Yes
• Web chat support availability: 9 to 5 (UK time), 7 days a week
• Web chat support accessibility standard: WCAG 2.2 AA
• Web chat accessibility testing: Web chat functionality is tested as part of our regular accessibility and usability assurance activities to ensure it is usable by individuals who rely on assistive technologies. Testing includes the use of common screen readers and keyboard-only navigation to confirm that chat content is readable, interactive elements are correctly labelled, and all functionality can be accessed without the use of a mouse.; ; Accessibility checks focus on logical focus order, clear visual contrast, readable text, and predictable interaction behaviour to support users with visual, motor, or cognitive impairments. Where relevant, browser accessibility tools and assistive technology simulations are used to validate compatibility across supported browsers and devices.; ; Web chat testing is conducted alongside routine platform testing and following updates or configuration changes that may affect user interaction. Any accessibility issues identified are logged, prioritised, and addressed through established defect management and continuous improvement processes.; ; Feedback from users, including those reporting accessibility-related issues, is reviewed and used to inform enhancements. Accessibility considerations are embedded within our wider service design and support approach to ensure that communication channels, including web chat, remain inclusive, usable, and aligned with public sector accessibility expectations.
• Onsite support: Yes, at extra cost
• Support levels: Standard support is available Monday to Friday, 08:00–17:00, via email, telephone, and live chat. All support requests are logged through a central ticketing system and issued with a unique reference number. Users receive regular updates via their preferred communication method (email or phone).; ; Support Levels; ; First-line support handles user access, password resets, navigation guidance, and general functionality queries.; ; Second-line support addresses more complex technical issues that may require investigation, configuration changes, or data checks.; ; Third-line support is provided for highly specific or advanced technical issues and is delivered by senior technical specialists.; ; Out-of-Hours and Critical Support; For critical incidents impacting service availability or data access, customers are provided with a 24/7 telephone contact to ensure urgent issues are escalated and addressed promptly.; ; Costs; All support services described above are included within the service subscription and are provided at no additional cost, provided they fall within the agreed scope of the contract.; ; Technical Expertise; Support is delivered by a dedicated team of trained technical specialists, including access to cloud support engineers where required. A named technical contact can be provided for coordination and escalation purposes.
• Support available to third parties: Yes
• AI chatbot: Yes

Onboarding and offboarding

• Getting started: ASSET for Schools provides structured onboarding and training to ensure users can start using the service quickly and confidently. Implementation begins with an initial setup phase, where the service is configured to reflect the local authority’s requirements, data structures, and reporting priorities.; ; Training is delivered through a combination of onsite and online sessions, depending on customer preference. These sessions are tailored to user roles and focus on practical use of dashboards, reports, and analytics relevant to day-to-day responsibilities. Training can be delivered to small groups or larger teams and is designed to support both operational users and managers.; ; In addition to live training, users have access to online guidance notes and user documentation, which are available to download directly from within the platform. These materials provide step-by-step guidance, examples, and reference information to support independent use.; ; Ongoing support is provided following go-live, including refresher training where required and guidance as reporting needs evolve. As ASSET supports bespoke and unlimited reporting, users are supported in understanding and using newly created or updated reports over time. This approach ensures sustained adoption, effective use of the service, and long-term value for the organisation.
• Service documentation: Yes
• Documentation formats: PDF
• End-of-contract data extraction: At the end of the contract, ASSET for Schools provides a structured and supported process to enable customers to securely extract their data in line with data protection and contractual requirements.; ; During the agreed contract exit period, authorised users are supported to export their data from the platform. Data can be provided in open and commonly used formats, such as CSV, Excel, or other agreed formats, to support reuse, analysis, or migration to another system. Where required, a full database backup (SQL .bak file) can also be provided for technical teams.; ; All data extracts are transferred using secure file transfer mechanisms, such as a secure FTP site or other encrypted delivery methods agreed with the customer. Access to extracted data is restricted to authorised recipients only.; ; ASSET provides reasonable assistance during the exit process to support data validation and ensure that exported data is complete and usable. Following confirmation that data extraction has been completed, customer data is securely deleted from the ASSET platform in accordance with defined data retention and destruction policies.; ; This approach ensures customers retain full ownership and control of their data, while maintaining security, confidentiality, and compliance throughout the contract exit process.
• End-of-contract process: At the end of the contract, ASSET for Schools follows a structured and transparent exit process to ensure continuity, data security, and customer control. Contract exit arrangements are discussed with the local authority in advance of contract expiry to agree timelines, data formats, and any specific requirements.; ; As part of the standard contract price, customers are supported to extract their data during an agreed exit period. A full global data export covering the duration of the contract is provided. This can include a complete SQL database export for technical teams, along with alternative open and commonly used formats (such as CSV or Excel) where required to support reuse or migration.; ; Data is transferred using secure, encrypted file transfer mechanisms, with access restricted to authorised recipients. ASSET provides reasonable assistance to confirm that the extracted data is complete and usable.; ; Following confirmation that data extraction has been completed, all customer data is securely deleted from the ASSET platform in line with defined data retention and destruction policies.; ; All standard exit support and data extraction activities described above are included within the contract price. Any additional, non-standard requests—such as extended access periods, bespoke transformation work, or additional data formats.
• Documentation accessibility standard: WCAG 2.2 AA

Using the service

• Web browser interface: Yes
• Supported browsers:
  • Microsoft Edge
  • Firefox
  • Chrome
  • Safari
  • Opera
  • Other
• Application to install: No
• Designed for use on mobile devices: Yes
• Differences between the mobile and desktop service: The mobile and desktop versions of the service provide the same core functionality and access to features. The service uses a responsive web design that automatically adapts to different screen sizes and device types. On mobile and tablet devices, the user interface is optimised for smaller screens, with simplified navigation menus and touch-friendly controls. On desktop devices, users benefit from a wider layout that supports more detailed views of dashboards, reports, and data tables. These design differences ensure a consistent user experience while maintaining usability and performance across devices.
• Service interface: Yes
• User support accessibility: WCAG 2.2 AA
• Description of service interface: The service is accessed through a secure, browser-based web interface designed for ease of use and accessibility. Users log in to a role-based dashboard that provides structured navigation, configurable views, and access to reports, analytics, and data relevant to their permissions. The interface uses clear menus, tables, and visual dashboards to present information in an intuitive format. It is responsive and adapts automatically to desktop, tablet, and mobile devices, ensuring consistent functionality across platforms. No local software installation is required, and updates are delivered automatically through the web interface.
• Accessibility standards: WCAG 2.2 AA
• Accessibility testing: Interface testing is carried out as part of our ongoing accessibility and usability assurance activities to ensure the service can be effectively used by individuals who rely on assistive technologies. Testing includes interaction with the service interface using common screen readers and keyboard-only navigation to confirm that content is readable, controls are accessible, and functionality can be operated without the use of a mouse.; ; Accessibility testing focuses on key areas such as logical focus order, meaningful labels for interactive elements, readable text, sufficient colour contrast, and predictable navigation behaviour. The interface is also reviewed to ensure that dynamic content, menus, and data tables are presented in a way that can be interpreted correctly by assistive technologies.; ; Testing is performed during routine platform reviews and following interface changes or updates that may affect user interaction. Where accessibility issues are identified, they are logged, prioritised, and addressed through established defect management and continuous improvement processes.; ; Feedback received from users, including reports relating to accessibility needs, is reviewed and used to inform interface enhancements. Accessibility considerations are embedded within the service design process to ensure the interface remains inclusive, usable, and aligned with public sector accessibility expectations.
• API: Yes
• What users can and can't do using the API: ASSET platform provides an Application Programming Interface (API) that enables buyers to securely access selected data for integration and reporting purposes. The API is issued to authorised buyers with read-only access, allowing data to be retrieved but not modified.; ; Authorised users can use the API to extract data from defined datasets, including pupil characteristics, contact information, attendance records, suspension data, and school information. This supports integration with external systems, local authority data warehouses, and internal reporting tools. API access is authenticated and controlled, ensuring data is retrieved securely and in line with user permissions.; ; Service setup through the API; The API is not used to configure or set up the service. Initial service configuration, user management, and access controls are managed through the secure web interface by authorised administrators.; ; Making changes through the API; The API does not support creating, updating, or deleting records. All changes to data, configuration, or user access must be carried out within the ASSET user interface, ensuring governance, auditability, and data integrity.; ; Limitations; API access is limited to read-only operations and approved data fields. This approach ensures controlled data sharing while maintaining security, accuracy, and compliance with data protection requirements.
• API documentation: Yes
• API documentation formats: PDF
• API sandbox or test environment: Yes
• Customisation available: Yes
• Description of customisation: The ASSET platform is designed to be highly configurable to meet the specific requirements of each local authority and service area.; ; What can be customised; Users can customise dashboards, reports, data views, and outputs to reflect local priorities and reporting requirements. This includes bespoke reporting for ePEP-related outcomes, attendance, attainment, progress, and other priority cohorts. The service also supports a tailored homepage, including branding aligned to the local authority where required.; ; How users can customise the service; Customisation is primarily delivered through configurable dashboards and bespoke report design. ASSET supports the creation of unlimited custom reports, which can be developed, refined, and updated as requirements change. Reports can be adapted to reflect local frameworks, inspection focus areas, or evolving operational needs, with outputs available in multiple formats.; ; Who can customise; Authorised users can configure views and dashboards within their permissions. Bespoke reporting and structural customisation are delivered collaboratively with the ASSET support team, ensuring changes are accurately implemented, quality assured, and aligned with data governance and security controls.; ; This approach allows each local authority to use ASSET in a way that reflects its own priorities while maintaining a consistent, secure platform.

Scaling

• Independence of resources: The service is hosted on scalable cloud infrastructure designed to ensure that usage by one customer does not negatively impact others. System performance and resource utilisation are continuously monitored to identify changes in demand. The platform uses elastic scaling to increase compute and storage capacity as required, ensuring consistent performance during peak usage periods. Resource allocation is managed to maintain availability, responsiveness, and reliability across all users. This approach allows the service to adapt dynamically to varying workloads and ensures that users experience stable and predictable performance regardless of overall demand on the platform.

Analytics

• Service usage metrics: Yes
• Metrics types: The service provides usage and activity metrics to support service monitoring and management. Metrics include user login activity, report usage, data refresh frequency, and access by role or service area. Where applicable, metrics also cover usage of dashboards, exports, and key analytical views. These metrics help organisations understand how the service is being used, identify trends, and support operational oversight. Usage information can be reviewed by authorised administrators and used to inform service optimisation, training needs, and ongoing service improvement, while maintaining appropriate access controls and data protection safeguards.
• Reporting types:
  • Real-time dashboards
  • Reports on request
• Resource tagging: Yes
• FOCUS resource tagging: Yes

Resellers

• Supplier type: Not a reseller

Staff security

• Staff security clearance: Conforms to BS7858:2019
• Government security clearance: Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS)

Asset protection

• Knowledge of data storage and processing locations: Yes
• Data storage and processing locations: United Kingdom
• User control over data storage and processing locations: No
• Datacentre security standards: Managed by a third party
• Penetration testing frequency: Less than once a year
• Penetration testing approach: ‘IT Health Check’ performed by a CREST-approved service provider
• Protecting data at rest: Encryption of all physical media
• Data sanitisation process: Yes
• Equipment disposal approach: A third-party destruction service
• Data sanitisation type: Deleted data can’t be directly accessed / Cryptographic Erasure

Data importing and exporting

• Data export approach: Users can export data directly through the ASSET user interface, subject to their role-based permissions. Reports and data views can be filtered by criteria such as cohort, date range, and data type before export. Exported outputs are available in a range of open and commonly used formats, including XLSX, CSV, XML, PDF, and DOCX, supporting reporting, audit, and onward analysis. This flexible export approach enables users to extract only the data they require, in formats suitable for reuse in external systems or internal reporting tools, while maintaining appropriate security and access controls.
• Data export formats:
  • CSV
  • Other
• Other data export formats:
  • PDF
  • XML
  • Xlsx
  • Docx
  • Csv
• Data import formats:
  • CSV
  • Other
• Other data import formats:
  • PDF
  • XML
  • Xlsx
  • Docx

Data-in-transit protection

• Data protection between buyer and supplier networks: TLS (version 1.2 or above)
• Data protection within supplier network: TLS (version 1.2 or above)

Availability and resilience

• Guaranteed availability: ASSET for Schools guarantees a minimum service availability of 99%, measured on a monthly basis, excluding planned maintenance windows which are communicated in advance. The service is hosted on Microsoft Azure UK-based cloud infrastructure, benefiting from built-in resilience, redundancy, and high availability design.; ; The platform is continuously monitored to ensure performance and availability. Azure’s underlying infrastructure provides automated failover and fault tolerance, ensuring that service components are resilient to hardware or software failures. Data is protected through multiple replicas stored across separate fault domains, supporting continuity and reliability.; ; Availability is designed to align with Azure’s service capabilities, which support high availability targets of up to 99.9% at the infrastructure level. However, ASSET commits to a conservative and deliverable 99% availability SLA at the application level.; ; If the guaranteed availability level is not met, the issue is reviewed in line with the service’s incident management and service review processes. Any service credits, remedies, or refunds are handled in accordance with the agreed contract terms and conditions and discussed transparently with the customer.; ; This approach ensures predictable availability while maintaining clear, manageable contractual commitments.
• Approach to resilience: The data centre used for this service is Microsoft Azure and is based in UK South which is based in London. ASSET is a cloud-based SSL protected software meaning it is secure, and there is no requirement to install or update, so there is no downtime. We have two backup London-based hosting servers and a backup domain to ensure continued service. We have various accreditations and checks performed to ensure we meet all legislation within our company and across our systems and software.; ; All Azure data centres meet or exceed Tier 4 requirements with redundant power feeds, backup generators, uninterruptable power supplies, redundant cooling, extensive physical security, etc. Inside the data centre, compute and storage resources are organised into fault domains; a fault domain is a group of nodes representing a physical unit of failure and can be considered nodes belonging to the same physical rack. The Azure Fabric Controller is responsible for provisioning and monitoring the condition of Azure compute instances. The Fabric Controller replicates every request made against data in a storage account three times. These three replicas each reside in separate fault domains.
• Outage reporting: ASSET for Schools has processes in place to identify, communicate, and report service outages in a clear and timely manner. The service is hosted on Microsoft Azure UK-based cloud infrastructure, which provides continuous monitoring of availability and performance. Automated alerts are used to detect service disruptions or degradation.; ; In the event of a service outage or significant incident, affected customers are notified by email as soon as practicable, providing details of the issue, its impact, and the steps being taken to restore service. Where appropriate, follow-up communications are issued to keep users informed of progress until the issue is resolved.; ; ASSET does not currently provide a public status dashboard or outage reporting API. Instead, communication is handled directly with customers to ensure relevant and accurate information is shared with authorised contacts.; ; Availability and performance information is reviewed regularly. Monthly availability reports can be provided to local authorities on request, drawing on Azure service monitoring data. Where downtime occurs, ASSET provides a clear explanation of the cause, actions taken to resolve the issue, and any measures implemented to reduce the likelihood of recurrence.; ; This approach ensures transparency, accountability, and effective communication during service interruptions.

Identity and authentication

• User authentication needed: Yes
• User authentication:
  • Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
  • Username or password
• Access restrictions in management interfaces and support channels: Access to management interfaces within ASSET for Schools is controlled through role-based access controls, ensuring users can only access functions and data appropriate to their role. Administrative accounts have defined read and write permissions and can manage access rights for other users, including report visibility and export permissions. Access to support systems and management tools is restricted to authorised staff only and protected through authenticated access controls. The principle of least privilege is applied, and administrative actions are logged to support audit and accountability. This approach ensures secure separation of duties across user, administrative, and support functions.
• Access restriction testing frequency: At least every 6 months
• Management access authentication:
  • Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
  • Username or password

Audit information for users

• Access to user activity audit information: Users have access to real-time audit information
• How long user audit data is stored for: At least 12 months
• Access to supplier activity audit information: Users have access to real-time audit information
• How long supplier audit data is stored for: At least 12 months
• How long system logs are stored for: At least 12 months

Security governance

• Named board-level person responsible for service security: Yes
• Security governance certified: Yes
• Security governance standards: ISO/IEC 27001
• Information security policies and processes: ASSET for Schools follows a comprehensive set of information security policies and processes aligned with its ISO/IEC 27001:2022 accreditation. These policies are designed to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information across all services.; ; Key policies cover areas including access control, data protection, risk management, incident management, business continuity, supplier security, acceptable use, and secure system development. Policies are formally documented and reviewed at least bi-annually, or sooner where changes in legislation, regulation, or operating practices occur.; ; Overall responsibility for information security sits with a board-level authorised individual, ensuring clear accountability and governance. Day-to-day responsibility for implementing and monitoring controls is delegated to senior staff with defined security responsibilities, with escalation routes in place for incidents or non-compliance.; ; All staff are required to comply with information security policies as part of their employment and receive appropriate guidance and awareness training. Compliance with policies is supported through access controls, monitoring, audit activities, and management oversight.; ; Information security incidents are reported through defined processes, investigated promptly, and escalated where required. Lessons learned are used to improve controls and reduce future risk. Policies and supporting procedures are available to customers on request, supporting transparency and assurance.
• Software Security Code of Practice: Yes

Operational security

• Configuration and change management standard: Complies with a recognised standard, for example CSA CCM v4.0 or SSAE-18 / ISAE 3402
• Configuration and change management approach: Configuration and change management processes are aligned with ITIL principles and ISO/IEC 27001:2022 controls. Service components and code are tracked throughout their lifecycle using version control, with all changes logged, timestamped, and linked to the responsible developer. Proposed changes are assessed for operational and security impact before approval. Development is carried out in controlled non-production environments using test data, with segregation between development, testing, and live services. All code changes are peer-reviewed by a senior developer prior to deployment. Approved changes are released in a controlled manner to minimise risk and maintain service stability and security.
• Vulnerability management type: Complies with a recognised standard, for example CSA CCM v4.0 or SSAE-18 / ISAE 3402
• Vulnerability management approach: ASSET for Schools operates a structured vulnerability management process aligned with ISO/IEC 27001 and Cyber Essentials requirements. Potential threats are assessed through regular monitoring, annual independent IT Health Checks, and penetration testing of externally facing services conducted by CREST-approved providers. Vulnerability information is obtained from trusted sources including Microsoft Azure security advisories, NCSC guidance, and industry security alerts. Identified vulnerabilities are risk-assessed and prioritised based on severity and impact. Security patches and updates are deployed promptly in line with defined patching procedures, with critical issues addressed as a priority to minimise risk to services and data.
• Protective monitoring type: Complies with a recognised standard, for example CSA CCM v4.0 or SSAE-18 / ISAE 3402
• Protective monitoring approach: We use layered protective monitoring to identify and respond to potential security incidents. End-user devices are protected by enterprise anti-malware and firewall controls, with automated scanning and alerting. The cloud hosting environment is monitored using built-in Azure security and performance monitoring to identify unusual activity, access anomalies, or service issues. System and access logs are reviewed to support detection of potential compromises. When an alert is identified, it is investigated promptly, and appropriate containment and remediation actions are taken.Security incidents are prioritised based on severity, with critical issues responded to immediately and escalated in line with defined incident management procedures.
• Incident management type: Complies with a recognised standard, for example, CSA CCM v4.0 or ISO/IEC 27035:2011 or SSAE-18 / ISAE 3402
• Incident management approach: ASSET for Schools operates defined incident management processes aligned with recognised operational security standards. Pre-defined incident categories are used to assess severity and prioritise response. Users can report incidents via email, telephone, web chat, or the online ticketing system. Incidents are triaged based on impact and urgency, with critical issues addressed as a priority. Target response times are applied according to incident severity to ensure timely investigation and resolution. Customers are kept informed of progress during an incident, and where appropriate, a summary report is provided following resolution, outlining the cause, impact, and actions taken to prevent recurrence.
• Post-quantum cryptography secure: No

Secure development

• Approach to secure software development best practice: Independent review of processes (for example CESG CPA Build Standard, ISO/IEC 27034, ISO/IEC 27001 or CSA CCM v4.0)

Public sector networks

• Connection to public sector networks: No

Pricing

• Discount for educational organisations: No
• Free trial available: Yes
• Description of free trial: A free trial is available with test data. You will be able to see all functionality of the service with a demo login. This is limited to 1 month; an extension can be negotiated.

Discount percentage by annual call-off contract value (excluding VAT)

• Less than £250,000: 0%
• Between £250,000 and £500,000: 0%
• Between £500,001 and £1,000,000: 0%
• Between £1,000,001 and £2,500,000: 0%
• Between £2,500,001 and £5,000,000: 0%
• Over £5,000,001: 0%

Non-mandatory Standards and certifications

• ISO/IEC 27001 certification: Yes
• Who accredited the ISO/IEC 27001: Amtivo Group Limited T/A British Assessment Bureau Ltd
• ISO/IEC 27001 accreditation date: Friday 23 January 2026
• What the ISO/IEC 27001 doesn’t cover: N/a
• ISO 28000:2022 certification: No
• ISO 9001 certification: No
• Quality management systems (QMS): Yes
• CSA STAR certification: No
• PCI certification: No
• Cyber essentials: Yes
• Please provide your Cyber Essentials Certificate Number: 31b670a9-95c1-4ab7-ba70-22ced7033687
• Cyber essentials plus: No
• Cyber Essentials Alternative: In relation to the services you do not have a current and valid Cyber Essentials Plus certificate which has been awarded by one of the government approved Cyber Essentials accreditation bodies but you are working towards gaining it, and will be in a position to confirm that you have been awarded a current and valid Cyber Essentials Plus certificate by one of the government approved accreditation bodies within 12 months of the date of award.
• Other security certifications: No

Social value

• Section B - Commitment for Future: Delivery:

  • Mission: Kick start economic growth. To secure the highest sustained growth in the G7 - with good jobs and productivity growth in every part of the country making everyone, not just a few, better off.

    Policy Outcome 1: Fair work: That offers fair wages and good working conditions. Help people get a job, stay in work, and progress in their careers, with good employment opportunities across the country. Notes: Where there is a large proportion of labour costs in the contract, commercial teams should consider MAC in Outcome 1 as a priority

    • New or retained jobs on the contract workforce in the relevant area that meet the criteria set out in MAC 1b, 1c and 1d
    • Providing opportunities for, and measuring and monitoring of, staff workforce conditions over time, including employee engagement, involvement in decision-making and satisfaction and adapting to any changes in the results, with clear processes for acting on issues identified
    • Plans to engage the contract workforce in deciding the most important workplace issues to address
    • Ensuring new workers are informed of their right to join a trade union
    • Monitoring of employee engagement rates (by protected characteristic) and, where necessary, the development of actions to ensure all voices are heard across the diversity of the workforce
    • Employment contracts that reflect actual hours worked; steps taken to ensure employees understand their contracts and have the ability to review and adjust them if actual hours regularly exceed contracted hours
    • Activities that support an environment where staff are educated about, and feel empowered to, address their physical wellbeing
    • Activities that support an environment where staff are educated about and feel empowered to report and address bullying and harassment
    • Offer a pay and leave entitlement to all eligible staff who become kinship carers, ideally equivalent to statutory adoption pay and leave
    • Payment of more than the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage (as appropriate) to the contract workforce
    • Monitoring and reporting of gender and ethnicity pay gaps and plans to address them where necessary
    • Entitlement to sick pay for the contract workforce, with provision in place for any staff who do not meet the earnings threshold for statutory sick pay, payment of sick pay from day one of absence and payment of staff on the contract workforce who are off sick a replacement income of 100% of their usual earnings for as long as possible
    • Plans for an appropriate income replacement policy for staff who are required to spend time away from work to care for a sick dependent or close relative
    • Understanding of in-work progression issues affecting the market, industry or sector relevant to the contract, and in the supplier’s own organisation and those of its key sub-contractors
    • Measures to support in-work progression to help people in the contract workforce, to move into higher paid work by developing new skills relevant to the contract
    • Support for the contract workforce by providing career advice, and providing opportunities for staff working on the contract with in-work progression career development into known skills shortages or high growth areas
    • Support for educational attainment relevant to the contract, including training schemes that address skills gaps and result in recognised qualifications
    • Volunteering opportunities for staff
    • Understanding of the modern slavery risks and issues affecting the market, industry, sector or country (of origin or of source) relevant to the contract, and the workforce in the supplier’s own organisation and those of its key subcontractors
    • Measures to identify, mitigate and manage modern slavery risks relating to the contract and how these will be implemented
    • Outline policies and practices to be applied to or put in place for the contract to mitigate and manage modern slavery risks, including: Pre-employment checks, recruitment practices. Workplace conditions, safeguarding plans and processes in place and regular monitoring with relevant groups considered, which may include sampling
    • How these flow down the supply chain and are monitored Illustrative examples include reporting, site visits, audits, etc.
    • How to ensure business decisions re: price/cost, short lead times, payment timescales do not create modern slavery risks in the supply chain
    • How the supplier will work with NGOs, trade unions or other businesses to address modern slavery risk
    • Means of influencing staff, suppliers, customers, communities and/or any other appropriate stakeholders with respect to modern slavery risks relating to the contract

  • Mission: Kick start economic growth. To secure the highest sustained growth in the G7 - with good jobs and productivity growth in every part of the country making everyone, not just a few, better off.

    Policy Outcome 2: Skills for growth: Supporting growth sectors and addressing skills gaps.

    • Understanding of employment and relevant skills issues, and of the education and training issues relating to the contract. Illustrative examples: demographics, skills shortages, new opportunities in high growth sectors, geographic/local community and skills/employment challenges
    • Support for educational attainment relevant to the contract, including training schemes that address skills gaps and result in recognised qualifications
    • Activities to support relevant sector related skills growth and sustainability in the contract workforce. Illustrative examples: careers talks, curriculum support, literacy support, safety talks and volunteering

  • Mission: Kick start economic growth. To secure the highest sustained growth in the G7 - with good jobs and productivity growth in every part of the country making everyone, not just a few, better off.

    Policy Outcome 3: Resilient, innovative and flexible supply chains: Support economic growth through enabling resilient businesses, opportunities for small businesses and voluntary, community and social enterprises

    • Understanding of the types of businesses in the market and the level of participation by new businesses, entrepreneurs, start-ups, SMEs, VCSEs and mutuals
    • Activities to identify opportunities to open up sub-contracts under the prime contract to a diverse range of businesses, including new businesses, entrepreneurs, start-ups, SMEs, VCSEs and mutuals
    • Plans for engaging a diverse range of businesses in engagement activities prior to appointing subcontractors (including activities prior to award of the main contract and during the contract term)
    • Activities that demonstrate a collaborative way to work with a diverse range of businesses as part of the supply chain
    • Ensuring accessibility to contracting and subcontracting opportunities for disabled business owners and employees
    • Structuring of the supply chain selection process to ensure fairness (e.g. anti-corruption) and encourages participation by a diverse range of businesses, including with regard to new businesses, entrepreneurs, start-ups, SMEs, VCSEs and mutual
    • Understanding of local demographics, needs and opportunities for the co-design of the goods, services and works to be delivered under the contract
    • Methods for engaging with different parts of the community (including the education system and charities representing the community) and how communities come together to inform decisions, strategy and projects to leave a positive legacy for future generations
    • Measures to involve local stakeholders and/or users in design (e.g. in the design of services, systems, products or buildings)
    • Plans for positive actions with community groups.
    • Measures for making facilities used in the delivery of the contract available for community groups, education or training
    • Measures to engage users and communities and build relationships to increase community integration build trust and influence how the contract is delivered
    • Plans to respond flexibly and adapt approaches to community engagement and initiatives
    • Support for community-led initiatives relevant to the contract. Illustrative examples: improving transport links; reducing loneliness; helping with English language proficiency; and facilitating social mixing among people with different backgrounds
    • Collaborating with anchor institutions and community groups to make facilities available for education, training or community events

  • Mission: Make Britain a clean energy superpower: To cut bills, create jobs and deliver security with cheaper, zero-carbon electricity by 2030, accelerating to net zero

    Policy Outcome 4: Sustainable procurement practices: Reducing carbon footprints, minimising waste, and promoting the use of clean energy and green technologies.

    • Understanding of opportunities for additional environmental benefits delivery in the performance of the contract, including working towards net zero carbon emissions and use of clean energy and green technologies
    • Collaborative ways of working with the supply chain to deliver additional environmental benefits in the performance of the contract, including working towards net zero carbon emissions and use of clean energy and green technologies
    • Delivery of additional environmental benefits through the performance of the contract, including working towards net zero carbon emissions and use of clean energy and green technologies
    • Understanding of how to influence staff, suppliers, customers, communities and/or any other appropriate stakeholders through the delivery of the contract to support climate and nature protection and improvement
    • Activities to reconnect people with the environment and increase awareness of ways to protect and enhance it

  • Mission: Break down barriers to opportunity: By reforming our childcare and education systems, to make sure there is no class ceiling on the ambitions of young people in Britain

    Policy Outcome 6: Employment and training: For those who face barriers to employment

    • Understanding of employment and skills issues, and of the skills and employment shortages of high growth sectors relating to the contract
    • Understanding of the issues affecting the representation of disabled people in the workforce in the market, industry or sector relevant to the contract, and in the supplier’s own organisation and those of its key sub-contractors
    • Inclusive and accessible recruitment practices, and retention-focused activities, including those provided in the Guide for line managers on recruiting, managing and developing people with a disability or health condition
    • Introducing transparency to pay and reward processes
    • Offering a range of quality opportunities with routes of progression if appropriate, e.g. T Level industry placements, students supported into higher level apprenticeships.
    • Working conditions which promote an inclusive working environment and promote retention and progression
    • Other measures to provide equality of opportunity for disabled people and those with health conditions into employment, including becoming a Disability Confident employer and inclusion of supported businesses in the contract supply chain
    • Understanding of the issues affecting inequality in employment, skills and pay in the market, industry or sector relevant to the contract, and in the supplier’s own organisation and those of its key sub-contractors. Measures to tackle inequality in employment, skills and pay in the contract workforce
    • Inclusive and accessible development practices, including guidance for line managers on recruiting, managing and developing people with a disability or health condition

  • Mission: Break down barriers to opportunity: By reforming our childcare and education systems, to make sure there is no class ceiling on the ambitions of young people in Britain

    Policy Outcome 7: Creating a pipeline of opportunities: For the contract workforce, reducing barriers to entry for under-represented groups.

    • Understanding of the issues affecting the development of new skills by target cohort
    • Understanding of the underlying factors affecting improvements to reduce barriers to entry and training schemes for the target cohort(s) related to the contract workforce
    • Understanding of issues relating to entering the contract workforce
    • Creation of outreach activities to create a pipeline of employees for the future contract delivery
    • Content of the outreach activity is designed to suit the target cohort
    • Advertising, promotional and outreach activities designed to raise awareness of the offer to reach the target cohort

  • Mission: Build an NHS fit for the future: That is there when people need it; with fewer lives lost to the biggest killers; in a fairer Britain, where everyone lives well for longer.

    Policy Outcome 8: Increasing productivity through physical and mental wellbeing: In the supply chain and communities in the relevant area.

    • Understanding of issues relating to health and wellbeing, including physical and mental health, in the contract workforce
    • Understanding barriers to access to health and social care services or employment opportunities e.g. digital inclusion
    • Inclusive and accessible recruitment practices, development practices and retention policies that support-focused activities including those provided in the Guide for line managers on recruiting, managing and developing which support people with a disability or health condition
    • Actions to invest in the physical and mental health and wellbeing of the contract workforce

Service documents

• Pricing document

  PDF

• Service definition document

  PDF

• Terms and conditions

  PDF

Request an accessible format

If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader) and need versions of these documents in a more accessible format, email the supplier at virtualschools@assetforschools.co.uk. Tell them what format you need. It will help if you say what assistive technology you use.