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.
Who can attend a course?
The course is open to anyone (male or female) who is aged 14 years or above.
When are the courses held?
There are two referee training courses (for 11-a-side football) planned for the 2010/2011 season. These commence on:
A further course will commence on Monday
14th February 2011 if there is sufficient demand.
Classroom sessions are normally held on Monday evenings (7.00-9.45 pm). Trainees must also attend at least two practical sessions on Sunday mornings (9.30 am -12.30 pm).
Where are the courses held?
All classroom instruction is delivered at the Madejski Stadium, the home of Reading FC. The Sunday morning practical training sessions are held on the playing fields at local parks and schools.
What are the qualification
requirements?
Referee training courses (including the examinations) usually last nine weeks. After this the trainee must referee six 11-a-side matches and attend an In-Service Training seminar. In addition, the trainee must undergo Safeguarding Children training and (if aged 18 or older) obtain an FA Enhanced Criminal Records Bureau Disclosure.
Qualification as a referee follows the successful completion of these requirements
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, applicable fees, enrolments, safeguarding children training and Criminal Records Bureau Disclosure requirements can be obtained by contacting:
Caroline Terry
Berks & Bucks Football Association Limited
15A, London Street
Faringdon,
Oxon SN7 7HD
Telephone - 01367 242099 Option 1
E-mail – caroline.terry@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