The new GCA framework is changing how trusts procure temporary staffing.
Zen Educate is an approved supplier on both Lot 1 (Direct Appointment) and Lot 2 (Managed Service), giving trusts the flexibility to choose the approach that best suits their schools while staying compliant, reducing complexity, and preparing confidently for September.
Lot 2 approved
Mandatory procurement route
Trusts must have dedicated agreement in place with all suppliers used across their schools.
Value for pupils
With national agency supply spend reaching £1.4bn in 2023/24, the framework drives transparency, capped margins and quality.
Higher supplier standards
Suppliers must meet strict KCSIE safeguarding standards, pass DfE-approved financial auditing, and offer 12-week temp-to-permanent terms.
The new framework comes into effect from September 2026. Trusts should review existing staffing arrangements now to ensure suppliers are compliant and ready for the back-to-school period.
In a 15-minute conversation, we’ll help you understand your options, compare Lot 1 and Lot 2, and identify the right approach for your trust.
General Education
Great educators for every classroom
SEN
Specialist support when your students need it most
Early Years
Nurturing educators for your youngest learners
Jonathan Greener, Regional Director
Zen Educate
Does my trust have to use the GCA framework?
No, but the mandate from the DfE which changes procurement practices applies to all trusts. The GCA framework is heavily recommended and will be the default path for Trusts. If you opt out and procure staff through another framework, you own the compliance, must justify value for money, and run your own tender process (compliant with the Procurement Act of 2023), all while exposing your trust to DfE procurement scrutiny and potential intervention.
What’s the difference between Lot 1 and Lot 2?
Can we keep using Zen for ad-hoc bookings?
How does the transition affect our current agency relationships?
Is Zen safeguarding-compliant?
