RSCDS 5 Year Strategic Plan 2025-2029 (version 3.2, updated on 4th February 2026)
The Management Board is pleased to provide you a copy of the final, revised and approved RSCDS Strategic Plan for 2025 to 2029. We received many useful comments from members in response to the survey sent out in March. And we used these comments as comprehensively as possible in making revisions. We have concentrated
on the most common suggestions and comments. Here is a list of the key revisions:
– The language of the narrative has been modified throughout the plan to make it less technical.
– Abbreviations have been removed throughout.
– The Vision Statement has been enhanced by wording suggested by a member responding to the survey.
– The Governance Values have been replaced by a proposed set of Guiding Principles.
– The SWOT analysis has been significantly revised. Some items have been removed, others added, and the wording of the “Threats” has been revised to ensure they are all external in nature.
– Quantitative targets have been added to the table of objectives and activities where appropriate.
– At multiple points, the wording has been modified to reflect the to address the international aspect of RSCDS.
– A proposal to promote the formation of branch networks within specific geographic regions to facilitate collaboration and events has been added.
– Objective 2.3: “To engage or integrate better with affiliated groups” has been brought forward for completion by the end of 2026.
– More emphasis has been placed on encouraging dedicated branch Ceilidh classes where appropriate and on breaking down barriers between dance forms: Partnerships with Ceilidh/Reeling clubs.
– The proposed music workshops have been complemented by adding international events
– Exploring the best platform for disseminating SCD music digitally has been added
– A note has been added to provide summaries of changes to documents and guidances issued by Coates Crescent along with the revised versions.
– Improved means of communication with members have been clarified
Implementation of the strategic plan has begun. Fifteen out of sixteen activities due to be completed by the end of 2025 are either already completed or on target. Corrective action is being taken to address the activity behind schedule.
The Management Board is enthusiastic about the plan, and we will keep you regularly updated on progress.
Sebastian Wanless (RSCDS Chair-Elect) on behalf of the Management Board
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