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Article Content
Overview
For the 2026 registration period, Scouts Canada has introduced a coordinated change to how section capacity is managed in MyScouts.
Key Point
Capacity now reflects the number of spaces available for new members, while still allowing current youth to renew.
Capacity now reflects the number of spaces available for new members, while still allowing current youth to renew.
What’s Different This Year
In previous years:
- Capacity did not always reflect actual availability
- Sections could appear to have more space than they could realistically support
For 2026:
- Capacity has been recalibrated before registration opening
- The system now distinguishes between:
- Returning youth (renewals)
- New member registrations
Result
MyScouts now shows true remaining capacity for new members, not total theoretical space.
MyScouts now shows true remaining capacity for new members, not total theoretical space.
How IT Established Capacity
IT completed a national capacity alignment in MyScouts, based on a consistent approach developed through the Registration Improvement Group (RIG).
At a high level, capacity was determined by:
- Starting from each section’s planned capacity for the next program year
- Accounting for youth currently registered who are expected to continue
- Calculating the remaining spaces available for new members
System behaviour was also updated:
- Returning youth can renew even if a section appears full
- Capacity limits apply to new registrations only
- Registration is open for both renewals and new members
Result
The availability shown in MyScouts represents space for new members after accounting for returning youth.
The availability shown in MyScouts represents space for new members after accounting for returning youth.
What This Means in Practice
1. Visible Capacity = Space for New Members
- Available spots reflect new registrations only
- Sections may fill faster than in previous years
2. Renewals Are Protected
- Current members can renew even if a section appears full
- This ensures continuity for existing youth
3. Use of Waitlists
- Sections will move to waitlist sooner
- This is expected and helps manage demand
4. Adjusting Capacity
- Additional Scouters are confirmed
- Safe ratios can be maintained
- Program quality can be supported
Why This Approach Matters
- Supports safe youth-to-Scouter ratios
- Maintains high-quality programming
- Provides a more accurate and transparent registration experience
- Reduces the risk of over-enrollment