Becoming a Qualified Referee

Believe it or not, all ‘official’ referees, even those on your local leagues, have all been trained and have a qualification from the Football Association. Yes, they all began by attending a referee training course.

Reading has one of the best training courses in the country

The main thrust of our training – which is delivered on behalf of the Football Association – is to develop referees capable of officiating in 11-a-side football. As well as having an expert knowledge of the Laws of football the referee must also understand how to apply them during the game. Our course covers all of the basic skills required by the referee, and classroom instruction is fully complemented by practical (on the field) training. This helps the new referee to develop confidence.

In addition to the above and depending on demand, we may also offer courses for those interested in becoming match officials in small-a-side football and mini-soccer as well as for those who simply wish to improve their knowledge of the Laws or develop their skills as club referees or assistant referees. 

The Training Team

The Team is made up of active referees who are qualified and experienced FA instructors: Stephen Green (Senior Training Officer), Ken Clark, Malcolm Garstang, Kevin Parsons, Dick Sawdon Smith and Brian Wratten.

When are the courses held?

There are two basic referee training courses (for 11-a-side football) planned for the 2008/2009 season. These commence on Monday 15th September 2008 and on Monday 24th November 2008. Classroom sessions are held on Monday evenings (7.00-9.45 pm) and candidates must also attend at least two practical training sessions on Sunday mornings (9.30 am -12.30 pm). Courses (including Safeguarding Children training and examinations) usually last ten weeks, after which the trainee must referee six 11-a-side matches and then attend an In-Service training seminar. Qualification as a referee is obtained following the successful completion of these requirements

Where are the courses held?

The Monday evening classroom instruction and the In-Service training seminar are usually held at the Madejski Stadium, the home of Reading FC. The Sunday morning practical training sessions and the follow-on six-match refereeing experience will be on the playing fields at local parks and schools.

Who can attend a course?

The course is open to anyone (male or female) who is aged 14 years or above.

When and how should I enrol?

As there is usually a heavy demand for referee training in the Reading area, it is advisable to enrol early. Application for enrolment must be made directly to the Berks & Bucks Football Association (see contact details below).

How can I get more information?

Berks and Bucks Football Association coordinates referee training throughout the two counties.  Further information about available courses, enrolments and applicable fees can be obtained by contacting Suzanne Blundy at: 

Berks & Bucks FA Limited, 15A, London Street, Faringdon, Oxon SN7 7HD

Telephone - 01367 242505 - Option 1

E-mail - development@berks-bucksfa.com

You can also obtain general advice from our Training Administrator, Brian Wratten, by calling 0118 978 2681 or by e-mail at b.wratten@ntlworld.com