Procurement Act 2023: What schools and trusts need to know

The Procurement Act 2023 will go live on 24 February 2025, following a four-month delay to allow the government to produce a new National Procurement Policy Statement (NPPS) outlining key procurement priorities.

This new procurement act is part of the UK Government’s Transforming Public Procurement programme, consolidating over 350 different regulations into one legal framework.

With a focus on transparency, efficiency, and accessibility, the reforms aim to simplify procurement processes and open up more opportunities for smaller organisations whilst benefiting suppliers, including SMEs.

Key changes under the Procurement Act 2023

The Act introduces several changes in procurement law and practices, bringing a more flexible, strategic approach to public procurement:

• Simplified processes – cutting bureaucracy to speed up procurement timelines
• Centralised digital register – a single online platform for all procurement opportunities
• New procurement principles – including public good, integrity, and equal treatment
• Enhanced supplier selection criteria – greater emphasis on sustainability, social value, and innovation
• Flexible procedures – more discretion in designing procurement processes
• Debriefing requirement – clear feedback for unsuccessful bidders to improve future tendering
• Dynamic markets – more flexible supplier management.

Preparing for the Procurement Act

Schools and trusts, as contracting authorities, must take proactive steps to understand and embrace the challenges and opportunities the Procurement Act will bring.

Key actions include:

• Educate staff – ensure procurement teams understand the Act’s key features and principles
• Review policies – align policies and procedures with the new procurement regulations and identify areas of improvement
• Engage with suppliers – communicate upcoming changes and how they may impact procurement
• Plan ahead – identify upcoming procurement and bids that could benefit from the new procedures
• Stay informed – access available training and resources (listed below).

Resources and support

The Cabinet Office offers free Transforming Public Procurement (TPP) training for all operational procurement staff throughout the year. This procurement guidance is essential for those involved in tenders, contracts, or supplier management.

• eLearning modules - available via the Government Commercial College (GCC)
• Procurement Pathway tool– launched 27 September 2024, providing step-by-step guidance
• Buying for Schools bloghas more information
• Knowledge Drops – short videos explaining key changes, including school-specific guidance
• Procurement Act learning modules - school procurement leads should complete the eLearning and register for Deep Dives if required
• UK Procurement Act 2023 Guidance - official government guidance
• Engage in events and groups to talk to peers
• Read The Procurement Regulations 2024
• Central digital platform – an online tool to simplify bidding and compliance for schools
• Guide for contracting authorities- giving an overview of the central digital platform and how schools, as contracting authorities, can use it.

These resources form a comprehensive bank of documents to support procurement practitioners in navigating the new procurement landscape.

Next steps

Schools and trusts must be ready to adapt to these procurement changes. Taking action now will ensure a smooth transition and help maximise the benefits of simplified, more strategic procurement.

Our Finance Team is available to discuss how we can help your School or Trust prepare for the Procurement Act 2023 by reviewing policies, identifying potential bids and procurement opportunities, or helping you to understand the key changes. If you're looking for education finance support, or interested in learning more about our services, please talk to us.