Scotland’s college lecturers are set to receive a pay rise of more than 10 per cent over three years after EIS-FELA trade union members overwhelmingly backed a new salary offer from Colleges Employers Scotland (CES).

 

In a consultative ballot, 98 per cent of union members voted to accept the terms of the proposal on a turnout of two thirds of all members.

 

The agreement – which required ratification by college employers and the EIS-FELA – will deliver a consolidated pay increase of 3.75% in the 2026/27 academic year, with further consolidated increases of 3.25% and 3.2% in 2027/28 and 2028/29 respectively.

 

Under the 2026/27 uplift, salaries for unpromoted lecturers will rise in September to £43,402 at the start of the national pay scale. Salaries at the top of the scale will increase to £52,247.

 

The proposal includes a reopener clause for AYs 2027/28 and 2028/29, based on a review of mean CPI inflation across the preceding 12-month periods.  This is intended to ensure the agreement remains responsive to wider economic conditions.

 

Additionally, CES, Colleges Scotland and recognised trade unions will work together to seek Scottish Government funding for a Distant Islands Allowance that reflects higher living costs in island communities. 

 

The results of the EIS-FELA consultative ballot come after the trade union and college employers agreed proposals for a lecturer pay rise – the first time such an outcome has been secured so early in national negotiations.

 

 

“I’m delighted that, following positive and constructive talks, our pay offer has received such strong support from EIS-FELA members.”

 

“This agreement will make a real difference to lecturers facing continued cost-of-living pressures, while recognising their professionalism and vital contribution.”

 

“Agreement on a sustainable, multi-year pay award also gives institutions greater certainty to plan ahead and invest strategically in their staff, underpinning the world-class teaching and learning that students deserve.”

 

“Colleges will now begin work to implement the pay increase.”

 

 

“The turnout and overwhelming support for this pay deal signifies our members’ trust and confidence in national bargaining and the negotiations which have led here. We were heartened to see a difference in approach to the negotiations this time, with a resolution coming quickly and in time for members’ pay uplifts to be made in September. We know there is a focus on the further education sector at the moment and that a lot of people want to see big changes from and for colleges. We hope this agreement allows lecturers, the backbone of the sector, to remain central to that change alongside learners and the communities we serve.”