Winter Guard United Kingdom (WGUK) has announced a series of exciting developments and initiatives designed to strengthen, develop and raise the profile of winter guard and visual performance in the UK.
On Wednesday 16 September, the Winter Guard United Kingdom Board held a special Zoom meeting with its membership to provide an update on a range of enhancements and changes that will be introduced over the coming years.
With more than 30 representatives in attendance, members were presented with details of a number of significant initiatives that form part of WGUK’s ongoing development strategy.
New Class Structures and Age Categories
One of the key announcements was the planned introduction of new class structures and age limits from the 2028 season.
The proposed approach will be based around school Key Stage age groups, providing a structure that better reflects the ages and development stages of young performers and creates a clear progression pathway through the activity.
Further information and consultation with members will take place as the proposals develop.
Recognising Winter Guard as a Visual Performance Art
WGUK is also beginning work to establish winter guard more firmly as a recognised visual performance art, with the aim of developing stronger links with education and the wider creative arts sector.
While competition will remain a central and important part of the activity, this wider approach will recognise the many creative, educational and performance opportunities that winter guard provides for its participants.
The long-term ambition is to increase awareness and understanding of the activity beyond the existing competition environment and to establish winter guard as an important part of the UK’s wider performing arts landscape.
Enhanced Safeguarding and Participant Protection
The organisation is continuing to strengthen its approach to Safeguarding and Participant Protection, with enhanced requirements and new Participant Protection Practice (3P) training inconjuction worth Winter Guard International (WGI) being developed.
This will include guidance and support for organisations and creative teams around the development of age-appropriate performances and show content, ensuring that the experience provided for performers is suitable for their age and stage of development.
Marketing and Communications Strategy
WGUK is also developing a new Marketing & Communications Strategy and Framework, with the aim of significantly increasing the national profile and awareness of winter guard.
The strategy will provide a more coordinated approach to promoting the activity, its performers, organisations and events, while helping to communicate the opportunities available to those who may be new to winter guard.
Update on Promotion During the Season
Members were also given an update on plans for an enhanced Promotion system throughout the season.
The intention is to create greater visibility for the activity, celebrating the achievements of performers and organisations whilst also allowing Guards the opportunity to self promote.
Changes to Critique and Judge Engagement
WGUK also outlined forthcoming changes to its Critique and Judge Engagement sessions, including a refreshed approach and new branding.
The aim will be to provide more meaningful opportunities for staff and judges to engage, discuss performances and support the ongoing development of performers and organisations.
Looking Towards the Future
The initiatives announced form part of WGUK’s longer-term commitment to developing, supporting and promoting winter guard across the United Kingdom.
The organisation recognises that the activity continues to evolve, and these developments are intended to ensure that WGUK remains responsive to the needs of its members while creating new opportunities for performers, educators, instructors, judges and organisations.
Interested in becoming part of WGUK in 2027 or beyond?
Whether you are an established organisation looking to join the circuit, a group considering starting a new winter guard programme, or simply interested in finding out more about the opportunities available, WGUK is here to help.
Get in touch with Winter Guard United Kingdom and the team will be pleased to offer information, support and assistance as you explore becoming part of the activity.
