All referee training across England is run at a national level by the RFU to ensure consistency in delivery and content. There are two “flavours” of course aimed at those who are new to refereeing.
If you are unsure about which course is for you – please check out the RFU KYBO website – https://keepyourbootson.co.uk/referee-toolkit/award-courses/
Introduction to Refereeing (ItR)
The England Rugby Introduction to Refereeing course provides development and learning around refereeing Rugby Union safely and effectively. In this six-hour course, you will learn the basics of how to referee a number of elements of the game and how to communicate effectively with players, coaches and volunteers, to ensure that everyone involved is playing in a safe and enjoyable environment.
With three hours online learning and three hours face-to-face learning, this blended approach allows you to learn from the comfort of your own home whilst being able to put into practice your refereeing skills on the face-to-face session.
On Sunday the 8th September, there will be an Introduction to Refereeing course at Ely RFC (13.30-16.30). This free, one-day course (plus online learning) is a perfect first step on your refereeing journey. You must register in advance via GMS –
Bookings close on Thu 29 Aug 2024.
If you want to host a ItR at your club, then these courses can be run ad hoc. For more details please contact our training officer (cudrrstraining@gmail.com)
England Rugby Refereeing Award (ERRA)
The England Rugby Refereeing award is our Level 2 qualification and is our competency-based qualification providing the knowledge, skills, and attributes to referee young players and adults safely and effectively. Covering all aspects of the game, the course considers how we can simplify refereeing by using “processes”, how we can communicate our decisions effectively and how we can ultimately be safe in everything we do.
The format of the course involves two face-to face days, with a number of webinars and networking sessions between. The England Rugby Refereeing award looks to develop candidates in a practical based environment, providing blended learning to suit you and your time.
ERRA is organised by the local RFU training team. In 2024 the local courses are:
| Venue | Postcode | Day 1 | Day 2 |
| St Georges Harpenden | AL5 4TD | 13/10/2024 | 22/06/2025 |
| St Edmunds College | SG11 1DS | 27/10/2024 | 01/06/2025 |
| Colchester RFC | CO4 5YX | 27/10/2024 | 01/06/2025 |
| West Norfolk RFC (NB Midweek) | PE30 3RJ | 28/10/2024 | 27/05/2025 |
| St Joes College | IP2 9DR | 10/11/2024 | 18/05/2025 |
| Oundle School | PE8 4AQ | 24/11/2024 | 01/06/2025 |
| Wymondham RFC | NR18 0GQ | 24/11/2025 | 22/06/2025 |
These courses can be booked online via GMS.
Q: Is there not a course more local in 2024/2025?
A: Unfortunately the venue that has been used in previous years is unavailable and a suitable alternative was not found. We are working with RFU to try and remedy this going into next year.
Cambridge University and District Rugby Referee Society 