Positive Behaviour in Learning and Interaction, PALS

PALS is a school intervention programme which involves all employees, pupils and parents in the prevention of behavioural problems amongst pupils. This report evaluates the use of PALS in 11 Danish schools, which were the first to introduce the programme in 2008.
Amongst other things, the evaluation shows that the programme so far has had no measurable impact on the number of pupils in special education classes, school-leaving exam results, or unauthorised absence. However, four out of five employees at the PALS schools consider the programme has made them better at tackling difficult pupils.
Since the programme is still being implemented, it is impossible at present to perform an actual impact study. Finally, the report discusses the challenges relating to a future impact evaluation of the PALS programme.
The report has been commissioned and financed by the National Board of Social Services.