Football refereeing in England

There are currently eleven different levels of referees that correspond to the ability, age and activity of the official.

Anyone over the age of 14 who is reasonably fit and doesn't have poor eyesight can train to be a referee.

The course is split into 5 key modules, all of which must be completed to a satisfactory level before a referee is considered qualified.

Level 8, 7 and 6 referees are qualified to officiate only games in local league matches.

[2][3] For qualified referees to be considered for promotion from level 9 to levels 7 through 4, they must apply annually and are assessed locally by their local football association, who determine the requirements for promotion that will apply to the relevant marking season (which is different to the playing season as it runs 1 March to May the following year).

The referees must also attend training conferences and complete a written exam.

Generally the final decision is based on the average assessment mark received, although other criteria may be used.

Individual league committees meet to discuss who is to be recommended for promotion at the end of each season.

For levels 4 and 3, there are active retention criteria resulting in promotion and demotion each season.

There are further criteria which include a referee who appears in the bottom levels of either club or assessor marks over two continuous seasons being considered for demotion, and referees are also judged on availability, fitness and administration (although these are not marked).

Above level 3, referees and assistants are assessed in every game and are not subject to the same retention criteria, although demotion is possible