Related links
Learning and Development
At the heart of the GPS remit is the responsibility to help government procurement to develop into a co-ordinated and consistently well trained, well equipped and informed profession. Learning and development is critical in achieving this and in supporting the goal of delivering effective and efficient value for money procurement.
In fact, the majority of the work being undertaken by the GPS is closely associated with learning and development. Each of the procurement entry schemes, for example, is also a development initiative - training the next generation of procurement professions rather than just recruiting them.
Portfolio of GPS Learning and Development Initiatives:
- The Learning and Development Strategy for the government procurement profession
- A Skills Development Directory
- The Procurement Leaders Skills Framework
These GPS initiatives also link in closely with:
Professional Skills for Government
The Cabinet Office's Professional Skills for Government (PSG) programme is about ensuring that all civil servants have the right blend of professional and business skills to deliver public services, and have access to development opportunities that support career progression to senior positions.
The Certificate of Competence in Purchasing and Supply develops knowledge and skills, providing an opportunity for a tangible recognition of an individual's status as a professional in purchasing and supply. In some cases, achievement of the certificate is recognised with an annual allowance. The scheme is administered jointly by OGC and the National School for Government. The certificate acts as a stepping stone to other higher professional qualifications.
CIPS Graduate Diploma in Purchasing and Supply
The Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS) Graduate Diploma is a degree-level qualification for those wishing to pursue a career in procurement at a senior level and in the public sector often attracts a significant annual allowance in addition to an individual's salary.
