From September 2026, schools and trusts will need to navigate significant changes to the way they source and manage agency supply staff.
To help education leaders prepare, Protocol Education recently partnered with Supporting Education Group to host an exclusive webinar featuring experts from the Department for Education (DfE) and Government Commercial Agency (GCA).
The session explored what the new framework means for schools and MATs, how compliance requirements are changing, and the practical steps leaders can take now to prepare.
Following the webinar, attendees submitted dozens of questions. We've rounded up some of the most common themes and answers below to help schools and trusts better understand what's ahead.
What is changing from September 2026?
The new GCA framework will replace existing arrangements and place greater emphasis on:
- Compliance and transparency
- Procured supply staffing arrangements
- Consistent and auditable supplier management
- Better value for schools and trusts
- Improved visibility of agency costs
The aim is to create a more transparent and compliant approach to supply staffing while still giving schools flexibility to access quality staff when they need them.
Can schools and trusts work with more than one agency?
Yes. One of the most common questions during the webinar concerned whether schools and MATs would be limited to a single supplier. The answer is no.
Under Lot 1, schools and trusts can establish agreements with multiple framework-approved agencies. There is no limit to the number of suppliers you can work with, allowing schools to maintain access to a broad talent pool while remaining compliant.
For larger trusts where different schools have established relationships with different agencies, this flexibility is particularly valuable.
Do we need a contract with each agency?
Yes. To use an agency through the framework, a Short Order Form must be completed and signed with each supplier you wish to use.
However, rest reassured that:
- There is no minimum spend commitment.
- Agreements are effectively "zero commitment".
- You can stop using a supplier if you choose to.
- Multiple agreements can be in place simultaneously.
This means schools can continue to operate reactively when needed, while ensuring they have the appropriate framework agreements in place.
What if our preferred agency is not on the framework?
This was another key concern raised during the webinar. The framework is a closed agreement, meaning suppliers cannot join after the award process has concluded.
You should exercise caution if an agency claims it is "compliant" but is not on the framework. While an agency may offer similar pricing or transparency measures, this does not automatically make its use compliant with procurement requirements.
If your trust is spending above applicable procurement thresholds, using a framework-approved supplier provides a compliant route to market.
Can we still use sports coaches, catering staff and other specialist roles?
In many cases, yes. Sports coaches and similar education-related personnel can be sourced through the framework.
For non-teaching roles such as catering and cleaning staff, schools are encouraged to use framework suppliers where possible. However, depending on existing contractual arrangements, alternative procurement routes may sometimes be appropriate.
Do agencies have to show a breakdown of costs?
Yes. Transparency is one of the key objectives of the new framework.
Framework-approved agencies are required to provide a breakdown of costs, helping schools understand exactly what they're paying for. This breakdown can be supplied at booking confirmation stage or alongside invoices.
This gives trusts greater visibility over:
- Candidate pay
- Employment costs
- Agency fees
- Overall staffing spend
What about safeguarding and compliance checks?
Framework usage does not remove schools' safeguarding responsibilities.
Schools will still receive compliance documentation from agencies and should continue to:
- Review safeguarding information
- Record relevant checks
- Maintain Single Central Records (SCRs)
- Retain appropriate compliance evidence
The framework strengthens supplier accountability but does not replace school-level safeguarding processes.
What if we want to hire a temporary worker permanently?
The framework includes clear temp-to-perm provisions.
Schools can transfer workers without a fee provided:
- The worker has been engaged for at least 12 weeks.
- A minimum of four weeks' notice is given before transfer.
This provides greater clarity and flexibility for schools that wish to recruit strong temporary staff into permanent roles.
Which framework option is right for your school or trust?
Every trust operates differently.
Some MATs may benefit from a multi-agency Lot 1 approach, while others may explore managed service solutions under Lot 2. The right option depends on factors such as:
- Trust size
- Supply staffing spend
- Number of schools
- Existing agency relationships
- Internal procurement capacity
Not sure which framework is best for you?
Protocol Education can help you understand your options and identify the most suitable route for your school or MAT.
Explore our MAT staffing solutions and framework guidance here.
Need support preparing for September 2026?
As an approved framework supplier, Protocol Education is working with schools and MATs across the country to help them understand the new requirements and plan ahead.
Whether you're reviewing existing agency agreements, evaluating framework options, or looking for a compliant staffing strategy for your trust, our team can provide practical guidance tailored to your circumstances.
Visit our MAT Staffing Solutions page to learn more and speak with our team.
Missed the webinar?
If you missed our webinar, The New DfE Supply Framework: What it Means for Schools & MATs, you can still catch up on demand.
Watch the webinar on demand here.
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