On Wednesday, RefEd Director Leigh Doughty delivered our full-day Mini Match Officials programme to the Year 5/6 pupils at Weeton St Michael’s CofE Primary School.
Having heard about the work Referee Education has been delivering across Wyre and Fylde, the school was keen to get involved early in the new term, and what a fantastic day it was!
Discovering the World of Professional Refereeing
The morning began in the classroom, where pupils discovered what life is really like as a Championship referee.
They got a sneak peek inside the VAR training suite at Stockley Park, explored the physical demands placed on top-level match officials and, importantly, discussed why referees matter and the skills and qualities needed to succeed.
We linked these qualities directly to the school’s own values: happiness, empathy, achievement, respect and trust.
Time to Get Active
After break, it was time to get active! 🟨🟥
Pupils took part in referee-specific practical activities using the whistle, cards, vanishing spray and flags, before putting their learning into practice by officiating small-sided games.
The result? Pupils taking responsibility, making decisions, communicating with others and building confidence, all while having plenty of fun.
The feedback from the school, pupils and parents at pick-up was fantastic, and it was brilliant to see the pupils embrace the challenge throughout the day.
Quote from Emily Bickerstaffe, Year 5/6 Class Teacher
“Pupils thoroughly enjoyed both the practical and theory elements of the course, with everyone engaged and interested throughout. Leigh created a fantastic atmosphere and clearly tailored his delivery to our school, with the values of the course linking beautifully with our own school values. We are really looking forward to seeing the pupils put their new referee skills into action during playtimes. It was particularly fantastic to hear pupils who don’t usually enjoy football saying that they would love to get involved in the refereeing side of the game. A brilliant opportunity for our pupils to develop confidence, responsibility and leadership skills.”
Developing Future Leaders
A huge well done to everyone at Weeton St Michael’s.
Could your pupils be the next generation of match officials, leaders and decision-makers?
Our Mini Match Officials programme is designed to bring the world of professional refereeing into schools while developing transferable skills that extend far beyond the football pitch.
Our Autumn Term is already busy, but we still have availability for schools looking to get involved this term.
If you’d like RefEd to bring Mini Match Officials to your school, get in touch with us today.
Let’s give your pupils the opportunity to lead, decide, communicate and grow.
