This is a demo, not British Fencing’s website. The clubs, coaches, events and results are BF’s own; the live rankings are calculated here from them, under BF’s Ranking Scheme. Member accounts are made up, and payments are in test mode.

Join free

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST OPEN FOR BF REFEREE ADVISORY GROUP

BF invites expressions of interest for a new Referee Advisory Group to support the BF Executive Team. The deadline for expressions of interest is 31st October 2025.

In celebration of International Referees Day on 11th October, we recognise the tireless service our referees provide both domestically and internationally.

Referees are instrumental across all levels of the sport, having an impact on participants’ enjoyment and continued participation and development within fencing. A record number of referees have also recently been awarded BF Honours for their services to fencing.

To further this development, BF is inviting expression of interests for a new Referee Advisory Group to support the BF Executive Team.

The main responsibilities are:

  • To advise and support the development of a referee development plan which shapes the work and delivery of the BF Workforce Development Team.
  • Provide input into the GBR Referee Pathway Programme and any developments needed.
  • Provide advice on governance, policy and procedures of referees.
  • To advise on the selection and development of referees, throughout the season and their broader journey on the GBR Referee Pathway Programme.
  • To work on programmes to support referee education, mentoring and development.

To be considered for the group, individuals need to meet the core composition and requirements listed in the draft BF Referee Advisory Group Terms of Reference PDF here.

Georgina Usher, BF CEO, said:

“Over the last ten years, the quality and quantity of fencing referees in Britain has increased significantly. This is in no small way down to the dedication shown by so many of our BF referees in supporting competitions, both here and internationally, and the hours they put into their learning and development. Our particular thanks and recognition go to the referees who have volunteered to train and support other referees on their journey.”

BF’s ambition is to increase the reputation and influence of Great Britain internationally. A key part of this ambition is being recognised as a leading nation for our refereeing quality and standards. This includes developing a diverse pool of referees capable of refereeing internationally as an FIE referee at future Olympics, Paralympics and Senior World Championships and increasing the standard of refereeing at the highest level of competition in the UK. To support the next generation of international athletes, we need a strong base of domestic referees.

The Referee Advisory Group will advise, guide and support the BF Executive Team in their work in bringing this ambition to life.

Chris Turner, BF Coaching and Workforce Development Manager, commented:

“Thank you to all the referees for your service in the development of fencing. The Referee Advisory Group will guide and support our work in the continued development and support of referees, both domestically and internationally, and I look forward to working with the group.”

How to apply:

View the draft BF Referee Advisory Group Terms of Reference PDF here.

In line with the Terms of Reference, please complete this Expression of Interest Form

Deadline for expressions of interest: 31st October 2025

If you have any questions or wish to discuss further, please contact Chris Turner.