Tender

The Inspire Multi Academy Trust (TIMAT) ~ Catering Tender

THE INSPIRE MULTI ACADEMY TRUST

This public procurement record has 1 release in its history.

Tender

15 Jan 2026 at 16:05

UK4 - Tender Notice
Summary of the contracting process

The Inspire Multi Academy Trust is soliciting tenders for a catering contract within their two Plymouth-based primary schools: Ernesettle Community School and Tor Bridge Primary School. The contract involves comprehensive catering services, including hospitality, commencing on 25 May 2026 for an initial term of three years, with possible extensions up to six years. The process follows an open procurement method, with a budget of £1,394,000. Key dates include the tender period closing on 16 February 2026 and the award decision expected by 23 March 2026. The industry category specified in the tender is school catering services, under the open procedure, ensuring that it is easily accessible to interested parties.

This tender offers significant opportunities for catering businesses, particularly those with experience in managing diverse needs across multiple primary schools. Companies with a robust operational base in the South West and the ability to contribute to and develop sustainable catering practices using local produce are well-suited to compete for this contract. Beyond delivering healthy and balanced meals, the Trust seeks contractors who can promote innovative food initiatives and ensure effective communication and management. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are encouraged to apply, and the emphasis on quality, innovation, and operational flexibility provides a pathway for sustainable business growth for the successful bidder.

How relevant is this notice?

Notice Information

Notice Title

The Inspire Multi Academy Trust (TIMAT) ~ Catering Tender

Notice Description

The successful contractor will be required to provide catering services for the following two Primary Schools within The Inspire Multi Academy Trust (TIMAT): 1.Ernesettle Community School, Biggin Hill, Ernesettle, Plymouth, PL5 2RB 2.Tor Bridge Primary School, Eden Valley Gardens, Estover, Plymouth, PL6 8EE Trust website: https://www.timat.co.uk/ The contract covers the scope for the provision of all catering services within the Schools, which is inclusive of all hospitality and free issue requirements. The duration of the contract being offered is for an initial three-year period commencing on 25 May 2026, which is the first day of the May half term, with the potential to then extend for a further three 12-month periods. This extension will be granted by mutual consent and on the same terms and conditions as the original contract without the right to further extend beyond the full six years. The contract being offered within this tender will be on a guaranteed performance basis, with an expected profit share of any betterment to the agreed budget. While the Trust will be the principal contracting authority, each School will have its own individual budget for performance analysis and reconciliation. The Trust is seeking a suitably experienced contractor who is able to evidence working with multiple Primary Schools with varying requirements. The successful contractor will already have, or need to develop, a strong operational base within the South West, thus allowing for both adequate contract support and operational flexibility that is to be delivered to support the contract as and when needed moving forwards into this contract term. The services across the Schools are currently outsourced, and TUPE is expected to apply. It is anticipated that a number of the current employees are members of the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) and, in this instance, the successful contractor will be expected to gain Admitted Body Status (ABS) in order to continue contributing to the scheme. The Trust wishes to offer wholesome, healthy eating options within the menus which should be based upon the use of fresh, local produce that is abundant throughout the South West to support the local economy. The Trust also wises to achieve as a result of this tender process: 1.The provision of a healthy, balanced menu that meets nutritional guidelines and is enjoyed by all users of the service. This menu should be inclusive of those with special dietary requirements. 2.An innovative and flexible menu that is in keeping with current food trends. Offering frequent themed menus and initiatives that support the curriculum and various school led activities, ensuring the food offer remains varied and enticing to its customers. 3.Experienced and proactive contract management to promote good levels of communication and engagement with each School, as well as provide forthcoming management information regarding the financial and operational performance to the Trust during half-termly operational review meetings. 4.Well-trained catering teams at each school, with a focus by the successful contractor on both craft training and customer service. 5.An effective marketing campaign that is suitable and appropriate for each school that should be promoted effectively to both pupils and parents alike. 6.Total transparency with accounts that are clear and easy to understand. 7.The development of an economically and environmentally sustainable service. To achieve overall value for money is an objective of this tender. However, please note that the Trust is not obliged to accept the lowest price and the contract award will be in line with the marking matrix published within the tender specification where a balanced focus will be given to food quality and innovation of the catering offer, as well the management support. Please see PSQ Document for more information. For more information about this opportunity, please visit the Delta eSourcing portal at: https://litmustms.co.uk/tenders/UK-UK-Plymouth:-School-catering-services./359GD8D4EG To respond to this opportunity, please click here: https://litmustms.co.uk/respond/359GD8D4EG

Notice Details

Publication & Lifecycle

Open Contracting ID
ocds-h6vhtk-0606fb
Publication Source
Find A Tender Service
Latest Notice
https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/003621-2026
Current Stage
Tender
All Stages
Tender

Procurement Classification

Notice Type
UK4 - Tender Notice
Procurement Type
Standard
Procurement Category
Services
Procurement Method
Open
Procurement Method Details
Open procedure
Tender Suitability
SME
Awardee Scale
Not specified

Common Procurement Vocabulary (CPV)

CPV Divisions

55 - Hotel, restaurant and retail trade services

CPV Codes

55524000 - School catering services

Notice Value(s)

Tender Value
£1,394,000 £1M-£10M
Lots Value
£1,394,000 £1M-£10M
Awards Value
Not specified
Contracts Value
Not specified

Notice Dates

Publication Date
15 Jan 20264 days ago
Submission Deadline
16 Feb 20264 weeks to go
Future Notice Date
Not specified
Award Date
Not specified
Contract Period
24 May 2026 - 24 May 2029 3-4 years
Recurrence
Not specified

Notice Status

Tender Status
Active
Lots Status
Active
Awards Status
Not Specified
Contracts Status
Not Specified

Buyer & Supplier

Contracting Authority (Buyer)

Main Buyer
THE INSPIRE MULTI ACADEMY TRUST
Contact Name
Not specified
Contact Email
tenders@litmuspartnership.co.uk
Contact Phone
01276 673896

Buyer Location

Locality
PLYMOUTH
Postcode
PL5 2RB
Post Town
Plymouth
Country
England
Major Region (ITL 1)
TLK South West (England)
Basic Region (ITL 2)
TLK4 Devon
Small Region (ITL 3)
TLK41 Plymouth
Delivery Location
Not specified
Local Authority
Plymouth
Electoral Ward
Honicknowle
Westminster Constituency
Plymouth Moor View

Further Information

Notice Documents

Open Contracting Data Standard (OCDS)

View full OCDS Record for this contracting process

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The Open Contracting Data Standard (OCDS) is a framework designed to increase transparency and access to public procurement data in the public sector. It is widely used by governments and organisations worldwide to report on procurement processes and contracts. 

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