The FA basic referee training course provides the introduction to officiating in football.
The course will introduce the learner to the Laws of the Game and their application delivered through theory and practical elements, outlining the skills required to operate as a match official in grassroots football.
Course pre-requisites
Prior to attending the first day of the course, candidates are required to be 14 years of age. Prior to certification, candidates are required to:
- Have attended The FA Safeguarding Children Workshop (candidates under the age of 18 years are eligible to complete The FA Child Protection Distance Learning Module ‘Safeguarding Children in Football – A Guide’ as an alternative workshop)
- Hold a current FA CRC (where applicable).
The above pre-requisites, for those who do not already hold the appropriate evidence, will normally be provided by recognised centres as part of the learning programme.
The first crucial step to developing as a referee…
The FA Referees Course is designed for anyone aged 14 and up who wants to join the tens of thousands of referees who operate week in week out on local parks, throughout the English football pyramid, up to those who officiate The FA Cup Final and on the International stage. As a referee you play an integral role in ensuring all participants enjoy their match day experience, helping create a competitive, fair, safe and enjoyable playing environment.
Whether you want to referee in youth and adult leagues, men’s or womens football or have aspirations of one day walking the ball out at Wembley Stadium, The FA Referees Course is the starting point for your refereeing career. Refereeing is not only rewarding in a football environment, but the social and life skills that come from becoming a referee extend far beyond your initial expectations.
Respect
Empathy
Fitness
Evaluation
Reliability
Education
Excellence
These seven core values underpin all aspects of English refereeing and are all required from the start of your refereeing journey.
Once you have qualified as a referee, there is extensive support available through both your County FA and The FA, helping you to be the best you can be and fulfill your potential as a referee.
Block 1: Introduction to refereeing and pre-course activity
Block 2-4: Practical and theory
Block 5: Referee experience
Block 6: Reflection, final examination and next steps