Published date: 3 November 2025

Open early engagement - This means that a procurement idea is currently active, it is in the early stage of development and judging interest from potential suppliers.


Closing date: 30 November 2025

Contract summary

Industry

  • Research and development services and related consultancy services - 73000000

Location of contract

England

Procurement reference

ENRC

Published date

3 November 2025

Closing date

30 November 2025

Contract is suitable for SMEs?

No

Contract is suitable for VCSEs?

No

Description

DfE is preparing to procure two pilot Research Centres, one on educational neuroscience and one on the Economics of Education. These Research Centres will produce high-quality, timely, policy-relevant evidence. They will conduct a programme of work agreed in advance with DfE but also retain capacity for responsive work. Further information about the Economics of Education Research Centre will be available in due course.

The Educational Neuroscience Research Centre will help DfE better understand issues such as brain development (in both early childhood and adolescence), learning processes, mental health, and special educational needs; how this impacts pedagogy; and what it means for DfE policy.

We will be holding an online supplier event for the Educational Neuroscience Research Centre on Wednesday 12 November 2025, 11:30-12:30. This will be an opportunity to find out further information and ask questions. Please contact Science.Team@education.gov.uk if you would like to join.

More information


Additional text

The contract value will be up to