Level 1 & 2 Examination Process

The Joint Home Countries Working Group (JHCWG) manage the Level 1 & 2 refereeing education programme and have recently conducted a review of the assessment process to align it with the recently updated Level 3 and 4 assessment process.

The L 1 & 2 assessment process has been centralised and standardised to ensure a consistent approach to the delivery of the content. Both seminars will be deliverable in an online or face to face format and the content will be interactive with quizzes and videos.

The JHCWG review has also for the first time formalised a collaboration with Wheelchair fencing to provide an opportunity to qualify as a wheelchair referee. For more information about this see here

To reinforce the emphasis on a supportive education process rather than examination, the seminars will be conducted by “Referee Instructors” rather than “Referee Examiners.”

The Level 2 practical assessment continues the focus on a supported learning environment with the use of a “Referee Mentor” to support the candidate through their practical assessment.

Newly qualified referees are encouraged to continue working closely with a mentor to further develop their refereeing skills

The published list of approved Referee Instructors and Mentors appointed by the Joint Home Countries Working Group can be found here: Home Counties Referee Instructors

How do I register for a referee course ?

There are several ways to register your interest in becoming a Level 2 Regional Level Referee or to sign up to an Introduction to Refereeing seminar to learn more about refereeing:

Your club or region may organise the referee course and /or assessment
You spot one being advertised on the BF Upcoming Courses page
You can complete a BF expression of interest form

What will I need to know to become a referee ?

All referees should demonstrate they:

Have read the BF Referee Course Preliminary Reading
Have read the BF Referee Rule book sections ‘T’ (technical rules), ‘M’ (material rules) and ‘O’ (organisation rules)
Have read the current BF Guidelines on Safety in Fencing, for fencers, coaches, referees, clubs and competition organisers.
Have an understanding of the technical rules of fencing.
Can perform clear, clean and consistent Hand Signals.
Are able to explain simple phrasing in English.
Have an awareness of the penalty sheet of the FIE rule book (t.170) – Updated December 2022
Are able to be consistently punctual and dress respectably.
Are able to consistently uphold the values of British Fencing and be positive ambassadors for the sport.