All Government procurement staff are encouraged to train for Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS) qualifications. A growing number of departments offer a procurement allowance of up to £1,500 per annum to procurement staff who achieve the Certificate of Competence. However our Purchasing Certificate modules are also open to people not wishing to sit the Certificate of Competence examinations.

Our Credentials with CIPS

The Government Certificate of Competence in Purchasing and Supply is designed and administered jointly by the National School of Government and the OGC, in conjunction with CIPS. It caters specifically for the needs of those working in the public sector and gives full exemption from the CIPS Foundation Diploma (Level 4) qualification.

We are a long-term partner CIPS partner and have been a CIPS Centre of Excellence since 1997, one of only seven "3 star" centres in the UK. Our tutors are experienced public sector procurement professionals. Many are also CIPS examiners meaning we provide the very best guidance in exam preparation.

Achieving the Certificate

The Certificate of Competence is the starting point for professionalisation for public servants working in procurement. The Certificate is awarded on successful completion of four modules, three associated examinations, and a work log book.

We offer a flexible programme, combining short, residential modules of four days duration, with periods of self-study and optional revision days before each examination. The programme can be followed at any pace, to get the right balance between study, work, and home..

Modules, Revision and Exams