Open Age What should I bring to the FA Referee Course & how does payment work?

Hi all,

I’ve signed up for the FA Referee Course and completed the online Laws of the Game modules and Safeguarding for All. I’m just wondering what I’ll need to bring on the day.

Should I bring my own whistle, cards, notebook, boots, etc., or is some of that usually provided? Also, are there any apps I should download or anything I should be ready for when it comes to the practical sessions or post-course match reporting?

After completing the course, I understand I’ll become a Level 7 referee. How does payment usually work for matches—do I get paid through the FA Matchday app, or is it done another way?

Hello, welcome to the world of Refereeing Admin.

Q: What are you told to do?
A: Do that.

For the course, there should be guidance in your course confirmation email but if there isn't, I would just contact whoever is down as the course co-ordinator to double check. I presume practical exercises are still a part of it so boots are a safe bet to bring along, I would also bring along a notepad and pen just to make any notes you wish. At my course they provided me with a whistle, notebook and cards but if you have yours you may as well bring them.

For payments for games, check with whoever will be assigning you fixtures once you are all set to go, as this differs between different FAs - mine just states we have to be paid before the game, most clubs tend to pay in cash but on the odd occasion they offer a bank transfer I take that instead.

So essentially just ask the people in your FA as it's not the same around the country

For the course, you will need a pen, a notebook, indoor and outdoor clothing (including boots for the outside sessions), lunch and drinks.
Download the IFAB app before you attend, as it will be used in the course.
Be prepared to need to read a QR code for some of the exercises.
You should be given a whistle, cards, notebook for the cards, and flags.
Enjoy the course.
In the latter sessions of the course, you will receive guidance about getting appointments.