Commissioning in Practice - Applied Action Learning (named in previous notices as Strategic Commissioning Framework – Development Programme)

Following widespread engagement with ICBs, national and regional teams, and external stakeholders, in November 2025 the NHS Strategic Commissioning Framework was published and in February 2026 the NHSE Executive approved the establishment of a two-year funded programme of development support to strengthen commissioning capability in line with the Framework. The purpose of this procurement is to secure a supplier who can deliver 'Commissioning in Practice - Applied Action Learning' This will be a structured action learning programme and on the ground support with circa 100 participants from every ICB with local system partners as well as places for commissioners employed currently by NHSE taking teams on a journey towards commissioning differently for population health. There will also be opportunities for all members of the ICB and wider system to take part in peer learning and at scale masterclasses, scale webinars and e-learning. These will cover the whole commissioning cycle and enablers as outlined in the NHS Strategic Commissioning Framework including understanding and quantifying need (qualitative and quantitative), developing strategy, setting outcomes, market assessment and development, capitated payment models, contract management and evaluation. Due to the nature of the different skills that will be required to deliver this programme NHS England are encouraging consortium bids.