PACT is the EIS national anti-poverty professional learning offer for educators in Scotland, grounded in social justice and equity, with an approach which is rooted in sound evidence and research.
It strengthens understanding of the nature, causes and consequences of poverty, and its impact on learners, families and communities.
Through focused professional learning, critical reflection and dialogue, PACT deepens professional knowledge and supports educators to build on their practice — exploring how pedagogy, school policy and whole-school action can work together to reduce stigma, strengthen inclusion and advance equity.
Participation also connects members to a national network of professionals committed to alleviating poverty and advancing social justice across Scotland’s schools.
Alongside national online and in-person sessions, PACT is now being delivered locally in schools, in local authorities and in local associations. Bespoke sessions bring educators together to reflect on poverty in a local context, build on existing practice, identify potential gaps and consider collaborative solutions that respond to local needs.
First to experience this local offering were colleagues in the ASN, EAL and Outreach Service in Aberdeen City Council. Working collaboratively with seasoned PACTivists Carole Thorpe, and her headteacher, Dawn Lynch, the EIS designed and delivered dedicated PACT input, for their inset day, shaped around local priorities, practice and context.
Speaking after the event, Carole gave us some insight into the impact this learning will bring: “Having been a PACTivist since the launch of the programme in 2020, I was delighted to have this opportunity to share the PACT professional learning offering with colleagues in my service. As teachers working within the ASN and EAL service, we work with some of Scotland’s most vulnerable children and see first hand the devastating impacts of poverty on them, their families and the wider community.
“Having a full day given over to PACT provided time and space to allow us to come together to deepen our collective understanding of the nature, causes and consequences of poverty; to engage in collegiate dialogue; to reflect; and to share learning.
“Having our headteacher participate in the session was also really helpful, in facilitating a whole school consideration of initiatives that are working well; of the additional supports needed; and in acknowledging the external challenges that exist beyond the school gates.
“By hosting a local PACT event, in the Aberdeen Arts Centre – away from the school environment – we were able to create a setting where colleagues felt comfortable contributing, sharing perspectives, and reflecting on how the themes resonate within our own context and the communities we work in.
“The level of engagement and the quality of discussion demonstrated just how much appetite there is for this kind of dialogue.
“The input from participants was thoughtful and forward-looking, with a clear willingness to consider both the challenges we face and the realities of many young people’s lives, whilst also considering the practical steps we can take collectively.
“I was encouraged to see colleagues from different backgrounds and roles feeling confident in contributing their experiences and insights, which enriched the conversation and reinforced the value of bringing diverse voices together.
“My headteacher has been incredibly supportive of the PACT programme, and the importance of having a whole school and whole service approach to this work. I am delighted that the EIS has been invited to deliver to a second cohort of staff at Aberdeen’s inset day in May and hope that we can continue to build on this work here in Aberdeen and beyond.
“I would strongly encourage other schools, local associations and local authorities to consider hosting a local PACT session and to get into touch with the EIS Equality Department. They will work with you to shape a session that is relevant to your context and needs.” (Carole Thorpe, EIS)
View our Pact section of the EIS website for opportunities to get involved in PACT Training!