Catering Services PQQ · UK public procurement notice

INTRODUCTION & BACKGROUND

Introduction to the College and the Proposed Contract

Telford College, a leading Further Education provider in the Borough of Telford, Shropshire, is entering an exciting new chapter of growth and transformation. With a strong reputation for innovation and a clear vision for the future, we are committed to meeting the evolving skills and education needs of our learners, communities, and local employers.

As part of a major development programme, Telford College is reimagining the student experience and reshaping the way education is delivered in our region. Building on our OFSTED "GOOD" ratings (2022 and 2024), we are investing in inspirational, modern learning environments that empower students and prepare them for a rapidly changing world.

A cornerstone of this vision is Telford 6th, our brand-new town centre campus opening in September 2026. This flagship development will expand our curriculum, widen access to A Level study, and open new opportunities for learners across Telford and beyond. The building will feature a vibrant ground floor retail unit that will house catering services for both students and staff.

Our current Wellington campus is undergoing significant refurbishment to expand vocational provision. The site already includes a dedicated refectory with kitchen, a grab-and-go outlet, and a Starbucks coffee shop - and we are excited to build on this strong foundation.

LOCATION & CONTEXT

• Wellington Campus: Home to around 2,000 full-time students, 500 apprentices, and 2,000 part-time/adult learners. A wide portfolio of vocational and academic qualifications is delivered here, with flexibility at the heart of our approach.
• Telford 6th (Station Quarter, Telford): Launching with over 300 A Level students in 2026, with capacity to grow to 500+. The central location offers excellent transport links and proximity to the town centre, making it a lively, connected hub for students.

Together, these two campuses represent a diverse and growing student population, each with its own unique identity and requirements.

THE OPPORTUNITY

Telford College is seeking an outstanding catering partner to deliver a modern, student-focused food and beverage offer across both sites - one that is flexible, innovative, and able to reflect the different needs of vocational and academic learners.

Our current catering services are provided by Aramark under an extended agreement, which concludes in August 2026. This procurement process offers a fantastic opportunity for a forward-thinking provider to shape the future of catering at Telford College, creating environments that are welcoming, high-quality, and aligned with the energy of our campuses.

We are running a two-stage process:

1. PQQ - to identify and shortlist qualified bidders.
2. Request for Proposal/Invitation to Tender (RFQ/ITT) - to be issued to shortlisted bidders only.