Original Tender Description
West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is hosting an online Market Engagement Information Session for organisations interested in the forthcoming recommissioning of
the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme.
Following our initial Market Engagement Event held in June 2026, we are aware that further interest has been generated from organisations wishing to understand the upcoming commissioning opportunity. As a result, WNC is offering an additional information session to provide prospective providers with further details ahead of the
formal procurement process.
The Council intends to commission the HAF Programme for an initial two-year period, continuing our commitment to delivering high-quality holiday provision for eligible children and young people across West Northamptonshire.
About the HAF Programme
-West Northamptonshire Council has delivered the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme for the past five years in line with Department for Education guidance. The programme provides eligible children and young people with access to nutritious meals, enriching activities, physical activity opportunities, and food education during school holidays.
-As part of our Best Start in Life ambition, we are seeking innovative and inclusive delivery models that respond to local needs and help ensure children and young people
can thrive.
Purpose of the Information Session
-This session will provide potential providers with an overview of the forthcoming HAF procurement opportunity and an opportunity to engage directly with Council officers. The session will include:
• Presentation on the future HAF Programme and commissioning intentions.
• Overview of the procurement process.
• Guidance on using the In-Tend procurement platform.
• Review of the market engagement information pack.
• Dedicated Q&A session.
Market Engagement Objectives
The Council is seeking to:
• Understand market readiness to deliver the HAF Programme.
• Explore options for future delivery models and commissioning approaches.
• Gather feedback on workforce recruitment and retention challenges.
• Raise awareness of the forthcoming tender opportunity.
• Support organisations to assess their capacity and readiness for procurement.
• Inform the development of the future service specification and HAF Coordination Service model.
The session is open to:
• Existing and prospective HAF providers
• Community and voluntary organisations
• Youth organisations
• Sports, leisure and cultural providers
• SEND providers
• Faith and community groups
• Organisations interested in delivering the HAF Coordination Service
To register your interest, please email educationcommissioning@westnorthants.gov.uk by 14 September 2026.