If you are a training provider looking for a way into NHS training work, this guide is for you. The EEAST training framework is how East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust buys learning and training from outside providers, and it is one of the more realistic NHS routes for a provider without a long NHS history.
This guide covers who runs the EEAST training framework, what it buys, how you apply and what entry typically involves, using public information only.
Who runs it and what it buys
The buyer is East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EEAST), which covers Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Norfolk and Suffolk. The trust calls the arrangement its "DPS Framework for Learning and Training Services" (reference 24-T23). Despite the name, it is set up as a dynamic purchasing system (DPS), which matters for when you can apply.
East of England Ambulance Service training is bought by category. The trust's February 2025 notice lists categories including:
- continuous professional development, including blue light
- leadership and development, from ILM and management qualifications to programmes for every tier of manager
- equality, diversity and inclusion
- coaching and mentoring
- learning and development
- health and safety and first aid
- health and wellbeing
- culture and engagement
- project management, IT skills, fleet technician and estates training
For the leadership and EDI categories, the notice also asks for training needs analysis, bespoke design, co-facilitation and train-the-trainer options, and delivery face to face across the region as well as online.
Who it suits
On our frameworks page we describe it as a lighter entry route for newer providers, and an NHS credential on your record, covering the trust's six counties across a range of training categories with work awarded by category.
It suits trainers with credible health sector or public service experience who can deliver across the East of England. Being based in the region helps, since much of the work is delivered in person.
How you apply
You apply in your own name through Atamis, the NHS e-tendering portal the trust uses for its opportunities. Registering on Atamis is free. The trust also advertises on Find a Tender and Contracts Finder.
Because it is a DPS, the trust's own procurement pages say new suppliers can apply to join at any time, provided they meet the qualification criteria. The February 2025 notice adds that it will be re-issued each year so that providers can keep applying. You choose the categories you want to be considered for.
What entry typically involves
The documents on Atamis set the actual requirements. In general terms, entry typically involves:
- insurance at the levels the trust sets
- a financial standing check
- up-to-date financial statements, certifications and references, which the trust's tendering page asks suppliers to have ready
- a selection questionnaire covering your organisation, policies and capability
The trust's insurance expectations are worth checking early, because they can take time to put in place. Our insurance, ICO and DBS checklist explains the usual cover.
What being on it does and doesn't mean
Admission makes you eligible to compete, not entitled to work. When the trust needs training in a category, it issues an invitation to tender to the providers admitted to that category, and price is not the only thing scored. The notice also says admitted providers can opt out of a competition they cannot fully meet, so you only bid where you fit.
Where it fits with the others
Of the six frameworks on our frameworks page, EEAST is the NHS buyer, and an NHS training framework place is useful evidence for later NHS bids. Our guide to NHS training tenders covers the wider NHS picture. If you want reach beyond the East of England, look at the YPO training framework; for a light route in the north, the Hull learning and training DPS.
Frequently asked questions
Is the EEAST training framework a framework or a DPS?
The trust calls it a DPS framework, and it is set up as a dynamic purchasing system. That means new providers can apply to join while it runs, rather than waiting for a single tender window.
Can a newer training provider apply?
Yes. It is one of the lighter NHS routes, and entry is about meeting the trust's selection criteria rather than holding a long NHS track record.
Where is the EEAST training framework advertised?
On the trust's Atamis e-tendering portal, and through notices on Find a Tender and Contracts Finder. You apply through Atamis in your own name.
Does a place guarantee NHS training work?
No. It lets you bid when the trust runs a competition in your category. Each contract is still won against the other admitted providers.
Sources
- Find a Tender — EEAST DPS Framework for Learning and Training Services, 24-T23 (contract notice, February 2025)
- East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust — Tendering and bidding
- East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust — Procurement within EEAST