-All referees including L6

-NO. Our referee’s privacy MUST be respected and protected

Where a grade requires a fitness test, only referees with a valid fitness test will be appointed.

If a short-notice re-appointment was necessary due to a withdrawal, then we may appoint a referee without the required fitness test if that was the only way to ensure the game goes ahead. However, this would be as a last resort after looking to re-allocate other referees and/or seeking support from neighbouring societies. This would require approval from the Development Committee.

If the referee doesn’t attempt the test before 30th September, they will be regraded to L9.

If they attempt it but does not pass the test before 30th September:

If they fail by more than 20 seconds, they will be regraded to the highest level their pass time qualifies them for or L9 if they do not achieve the time for any grade.

If they fail by 20 seconds or less, they will be granted one additional month to achieve the time for their level, this will be called the “grace period” which will run to 31st October

Yes, referees can attempt the test as many times as they like within the testing period.

Beyond the testing period, there may be opportunities which we can facilitate subject to having facilities and supervisors available

-NO, there will be an opportunity to retake the test as many times within the testing window or potentially in the second half of the season

We will review subject to needs of referees and practicality

YES, provided it’s overseen by selected member(s) of the Development Committee, Chairman, Society President and/or an appointed member of the Exec Committee.

Also, test as part of the RFU or another society’s annual testing programme provided this is evidenced in writing from a committee member of the testing society

They should inform the Grading Secretary who will agree an appropriate plan with them

Whilst the required times are based around the RFU guidelines, the society has exercised its discretion in adapting these where deemed appropriate.

This is summarised as follows:

Level

Time Required

L 6 Males:          < 6:15

Females:      < 6:30

L7 Males:          < 7:00

Females:      < 7:15

L8 Males:          < 7:30

Females:      < 7:45

L9 Encouraged

1L0 Encouraged

L11 Encouraged

-As ambassadors for our society, we expect our referees to consistently demonstrate the values of the game. This includes (but is not limited to) how they present themselves both on and off the pitch, how they communicate towards others including society members and other stakeholders

Where possible, we appreciate where referees can “give back” to the society, this may be by acting as a mentor to a new referee, supporting others’ learning through the WhatsApp group, providing a training session or through other means

Although some aspect of the policy is currently in practise, it will into force at the beginning of next season

The policy will be reviewed once a year at the end of each season to ensure its still fit for purpose