Research Services for Updating QQI’s Standards-based Assessment Infrastructure for FET and HE in Ireland

The contract is ideally envisaged to commence in Q4 2026 and conclude by Q4 2027.

Key milestones include:

• Start by Q4 2026.
• Complete fieldwork by Q2 2027.
• Final report by Q4 2027.

The total duration is approximately one year, from Q4 2026 to Q4 2027. The agreement will take effect on the Effective Date and expire on an [Insert date], unless terminated or extended. The Client reserves the right to extend the Term for a period or periods of up to [Insert Number] months with a maximum of [Insert Number] such extensions permitted.

The core scope of work for this tender, titled "Research Services for Updating QQI's Standards-based Assessment Infrastructure for FET and HE in Ireland," involves establishing a validated evidence base for the Qualifications and Quality Assurance Authority of Ireland (QQI). This evidence base will inform the updating of QQI's standards-based assessment infrastructure for further education and training (FET) and higher education (HE) in Ireland. Key aspects include discovering stakeholders' views on relevant issues, understanding the national context for standards-based assessment, and examining how awarding bodies ensure effective assessment policies. Additionally, the project requires a comparison of international practices in quality assurance of standards-based assessment with those in Ireland.

The Statement of Work summary and core deliverables include the provision of "Services" as detailed in Schedule B, which outlines the nature, quality, time of delivery, key personnel, and functional specifications in accordance with the Request for Tender (RFT) and the Contractor's submission. These services are also described in the "Requirements and Specifications at Appendix 1 to the RFT". The project requires a viable and detailed project plan, specifying timelines and milestones, and demonstrating the ability to deliver the required outputs, including a detailed Gantt chart. Tenderers must also identify key risks and mitigation strategies. The final deliverables are an important criterion for evaluation.