Tutoring

Tutoring stand-off set to end as providers sign contracts

Three week contract dispute with Randstad comes to a close

Three week contract dispute with Randstad comes to a close

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The stand-off between leading tuition providers and the National Tutoring Programme (NTP) contractor Randstad is set to be resolved.

More than two weeks after the flagship £450 million scheme launched, the tuition providers are set to sign up to the programme.

The organisations had concerns about the contract that allowed Randstad, a Dutch HR firm, to “confiscate” tutors and staff.

Education giant Pearson signed its contract last week, after receiving a “legally binding” letter of assurance.

The remaining aggrieved providers had been seeking a similar letter. Schools Week understands assurances have been given over email, so the providers have decided to settle.

Six providers signed their contracts this week, with the final one expected in the coming days. It will take the number of approved tuition partners up to 39 – six more than in the first year of the programme.

In a statement, the seven organisations said they have had reservations about the programme’s set-up and contract management, but were “pleased” to have “resolved” concerns.

“For all of us, our desire is to be able to get on with our shared mission: supporting disadvantaged pupils through impactful tutoring programmes,” the statement read.

“In order to do this well and sustainably, the contract needed to be fair and the management of the programme operationally achievable.”

Randstad and DfE did not respond to requests for comment.

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