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England Rugby Ready2 Referee
Ready2Ref: Your First Step into Refereeing Rugby Union
Whether you’re a player, coach, parent or passionate fan, Ready2Ref is the perfect way to start your journey as a rugby union match official. This entry-level course is designed to be accessible, practical, and tailored to prepare you for real match environments.
The course blends online learning with a practical, in-person training day, helping you build confidence in areas like safety, communication, the set-piece, and the laws of the game. E-learning modules cover topics including the tackle and breakdown, scrum, space management, and effective communication – all at your own pace.
Once you’ve completed the online learning and practical session, you’ll be ready to referee across age grades, formats like 7s and 10s, and community-level games.
After qualifying, we encourage all new referees to join their local referee society for further support, development, and game appointments. You can find more about that here.
Get involved, give it a go, and get Ready2Ref!
To find your local Ready2Ref course, visit GMS Course Finder to get started. Looking to a host a course? Head over to our Recruiting Match Officials page on England Rugby.com to find out how to get more officials in your environment.
Advanced Match Official Award (AMOA)
The AMOA is a competency-based course that uses practical observations and group networking sessions.
The programme is for active match officials who have completed the England Rugby Referee Award (or equivalent) to develop their skills, knowledge and understanding of officiating rugby union. The course will develop individuals through four main components: Level 3 Match Officiating qualification, sport science, practical Officiating and supporting others.
The AMOA runs from September to May and applications are open to any member of a refereeing society who has completed the England Rugby Ready2 Referee or L2 equivalent. Applications open for next season in May.