The Council would like to develop a much greater understanding of the way in which local conditions impact on the supply of and demand for part-time and flexible HE study at undergraduate and postgraduate level. To do this we wish to commission an England-wide, mixed-method research programme to be conducted over two stages. Alongside the research HEFCE will fund and organise a steering group and high-profile dissemination events.

For this research to be successful it will be essential to capture information throughout England. We therefore expect contractors to demonstrate how they will utilise and engage with regional networks and regional specialists - this might be through contracting with partners and collaborators where necessary.

We expect proposals to set out how any work sub-contracted or conducted through partners (for whom the contractor would be responsible) would be quality assured.

Further information can be obtained by visiting https://in-tendhost.co.uk/hefce/aspx/Tenders/Current. Please express and an interest in order to be sent the full Invitation to Tender document.