Berks & Bucks FA have now completed our referee course programme for the 2022-23 season.

Across the 2022-23 season, we have delivered a total of 17 referee courses, training 374 new referees across Berks & Bucks.

The 2022-23 season saw Berks & Bucks FA deliver the highest number of courses we have ever delivered in one season. Courses began in July 2022 and ran regularly until February 2023. Following their course, candidates are then required to complete 5 matches as Trainee referees before they become qualified as either a Level 7 (aged 16+) or Youth (aged 14-15) referee.

Of the 374 candidates trained, as of the 31st March 2023, 67 candidates had already completed their five matches and been signed off as completing their qualification. 

A reminder that any trainee referee who has completed their five matches, must upload details via our online form in order to receive their certificate of completion. The five-match form can be accessed here.

When candidates were asked why they enjoyed the Referee Course, candidates stated:

"A thoroughly enjoyable course. Welcoming, educational, and good fun."

"The course was engaging and enjoyable. The time went by very quickly."

We also asked candidates what they had enjoyed the most since starting their referee journeys, this is what they said:

"Helping out local clubs so that they are able to play football."

"Still being involved in the game and being the reason why football can be played."

"The opportunity to see the game in a different way, and understand decisions that are made in my own game."

Berks & Bucks FA also want to place on record their thanks to all members of the Referee Workforce who have helped support many of these newly qualified officials following their face-to-face training.

BBFA Referee Development Officer, Sam Myatt, said: "This season has been very busy with courses which would not have been possible without our team of Referee Developers and Mentors who give up their own time and are passionate about helping referees across our counties. Without them, delivering this number of courses and supporting this number of referees would not be possible."

Any candidate interested in taking the referee course can sign up by completing our online Expression of Interest form, here. You will then receive news direct to your inbox about upcoming courses for the 2023-24 season.

For more information on upcoming Referee courses please contact Berks & Berks FA Referee Development Officer, Sam Myatt, via email. Alternatively, please visit our dedicated Refereeing section of the website.