Permanent & Contingent (PerCo) Recruitment Framework
Harris Federation has established a Permanent and Contingent (PerCo) Recruitment Framework to secure the services of general and specialist recruitment services within the Education sector. The framework is designed for use by both Harris academies and other MATs, academies and schools (contracting authorities) that may wish to benefit from the services, pricing agreement and framework technology.
The framework creates a single, transparent model for engaging recruitment agencies underpinned by technology designed to support a seamless and compliant end-to-end process.
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What is the Permanent & Contingent (PerCo) Recruitment Framework?
The PerCo Framework is an open framework that enables schools to access approved recruitment agencies under a common set of terms, pricing and compliance standards.
It covers:
- Permanent recruitment
- Fixed-term contracts
- Contingent and supply staffing
- Education, operational and corporate roles
The framework will operate for up to 8 years, 2026 – 2034, with annual refreshes expected to take place each year, allowing new suppliers to join.
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Why was the PerCo framework introduced?
The PerCo Framework has been designed to:
- Meet the requirements of the Procurement Act 2023 (introduced February 2025)
- Provide governance and oversight when working with agencies
- Provide schools with the opportunity to work with quality suppliers
- Improve compliance, safeguarding and auditability
- Create consistency in how agencies work with schools
- Reduce administrative burden for schools
- Improve visibility and control of agency spend
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How can the PerCo framework be accessed?
The PerCo Framework contracts and pricing are managed through a bespoke framework platform, Omnijo, through which the call off process is completed.
The framework platform enables:
- A quick and compliant call-off process (no form-filling)
- Centralised communication and record-keeping
- Visibility of bookings, spend and performance
- Consistent processes for academies and suppliers
