The Department for Education (DfE) is developing a new national procurement framework for Management Information Systems (MIS), which is expected to launch in June 2027.
The new framework is intended to make MIS procurement clearer and more consistent for schools, with a focus on areas including transparent pricing, data security and supplier accountability. Following the DfE’s announcement, EIS and The Education People have met with MIS suppliers and attended a DfE webinar to better understand what the changes could mean for schools.
What Does This Mean for Schools?
Based on the information available so far, we recommend that schools consider the following:
- If you are already reprocuring your MIS and FAS contract and intend to secure a new contract before 31 August 2026, you may continue with your current procurement process.
- If you are considering renewing your current licence or changing MIS and FAS provider after 1 September 2026, the DfE has advised that schools should seek a one-year contract where possible
- If a one-year contract is not available, you should continue with your existing procurement process, ensuring that any renewal contract is for no more than three years.
- Arbor and Bromcom have confirmed their endorsement for the licence offer available through the KCS Procurement Services framework and recommend continuing with the current approach.
What Happens Next?
As part of the new DfE framework, schools will not be mandated to use the MIS supplier’s own support service. Independent third-party support partners, including EIS and The Education People, will continue to work alongside suppliers. We will continue to follow developments around the new framework and what this means for schools.
Start Planning
If your school is approaching the end of its MIS or FAS licence, or you would like guidance on the options available, please get in touch with the MIS team who can help you understand the current position and make an informed decision for your school.