No it isn't. There are minimum standards that a Commissioner will expect to see fulfilled before giving approval for a show to go ahead (see factsheet FS120269 Commissioner Guidelines for Scout Shows), but this is not the Recognition Scheme. National Recognition is not a requirement for any show and assesses the creative / performance elements of the show.
Scout Shows National Recognition Scheme - Frequently Asked Questions
Is National Recognition required to put on a Scout Show?
Are Gang Shows a thing of the past?
Not at all. Gang Shows remain a very popular and effective part of the Programme. However, they are only one type of Scout Show, and this scheme looks to recognise all of the different types of Scout Show that are around.
What happens if a show already has recognition from the old Gang Show Recognition Scheme?
The show's Commissioner will decide the period of time this recognition lasts for. This will be based on when the show was last assessed, what changes there have been in the production team etc, and can be for a maximum of five years.
Is this the end of the Gang Show emblem and red scarf?
No. Celebration of National Recognition is a personal thing to each show and is likely to be different from show to show. However it is expected that many Gang Shows will continue to celebrate recognition through the red scarf and emblem due to the tradition and history behind them.
When does this scheme start?
It starts from 1st January 2005. From this date the National Scout Entertainment Panel will be disbanded and there will be no more assessments from National Assessors.
What happens if my County canÂ’t find an Assessor to assess a Scout Show?
If the appointment of an Assessor proves problematic in the short-term, the Activities Office in conjunction with the National Adviser for Scout Shows will endeavour to find a person willing to carry out specific assessments whilst a local candidate is being sought. However, please bear in mind that a cost may be attached to this to cover their travelling expenses.
It is also recommended that Counties work with each others Assessors, for example, where a County's Assessor is part of their County Show and therefore unable to assess the show.
