Forensic Script Examination Service for the Standards and Testing Agency (STA) 2015.

The Standards and Testing Agency (STA) is an executive agency of the Department for Education (DfE). The STA’s main functions are to: • develop high quality and rigorous DfE tests and assessments in line with Ministerial policy; • undertake operational delivery of DfE tests and assessment (including printing, distribution, marking and data capture of tests as appropriate); • support schools, test centres and other stakeholders to deliver DfE tests and assessments; • support and implement arrangements for moderation of teacher assessment judgements.

STA is responsible for developing and delivering the national curriculum tests and assessments and ensuring their proper and safe production and administration. These assessments operate across Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and key stages 1, 2 and 3 and are used by a wide range of maintained and other schools.

STA is also responsible for developing and delivering Professional Skills Tests for prospective teachers. Further information about STA and the national curriculum tests and assessments can be found at www.education.gov.uk/assessments.

Description of the contract STA wish to appoint a third party supplier to undertake a forensic examination of a sample of the 2015 levels 3-5 National Curriculum test scripts, from a selected sample of schools, to try and identify cases of suspected maladministration. The sample of schools will be identified by STA.

The contract will be for a single project, taking place between July and November 2015. Scheduled date for start of award procedures The contract will be awarded by 31 July 2015, allowing for the script examination to take place in autumn 2015. The required services include (but are not limited to): TECHNICAL • Forensic script examination procedures • Test and pupil data handling • Storage and management of scripts during the examination process • Data capture and management • Data analysis • Report on outcomes of script examinations GENERAL • Project Management • Management Information • Security • Business Continuity • Financial Requirements • Resources • Quality Assurance See 'Attachments' for a word version of the advert along with an indicative timetable and further details.