Minimum Standards for Coaches and Referees
High quality coaching and officiating can contribute to reducing the risk of injury occurring. Therefore, it is important that individuals in such roles keep up to date with training and information on safe practice both on and off the pitch.
All those involved with coaching or refereeing in schools and colleges should have completed the appropriate training, are up to date with current methods and are confident in their knowledge of the rules and laws.
There are three levels of practice:
1. Required Practice
- Completion of DBS
Note: There is no need for an additional RFU DBS if staff/coaches have a DBS through the school/college.
It is mandatory that every Age Grade coach meets the Required Practice.
2. Standard Practice (Coaches & Referees)
- Completion of DBS
- Completion and application of online HEADCASE training course
- RFU Coaching / Refereeing Qualification.
The RFU recommends that contact rugby should only be introduced and refereed under the supervision of RFU coaches and referees who have achieved standard practice.
3. Best Practice (Coaches & Referees)
- Licensed Coach / Referee (eligible to become a member of the England Rugby Coaching Association (ERCA) or English Rugby Refereeing Association (ERRA) member)
- Qualified, Active and Engaging in annual CPD, including refereeing (if relevant)
- Has completed the RFU Play It Safe safeguarding training, or comparable training for teachers/staff in a school/college environment
- Has completed a relevant First Aid course (e.g. EFARU).
There is a suite of specific player safety, first aid and immediate care courses that we would highly recommend for teachers, coaches, match officials and other volunteers. As well as face to face courses the RFU have developed a number of online resources and modules to increase awareness and understanding of key player welfare topics including concussion and nutrition.
England Rugby Training Course Booklet
More information on coaching and refereeing can be found on the Keep Your Boots On! website.
Checklist
Ensure you are delivering a safe and enjoyable rugby programme and can demonstrate how it is RugbySafe.
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RugbySafe for Schools or Colleges | Minimum Standards for Coaches and Referees
England Rugby Training Course Booklet HeadcaseMORE RUGBYSAFE FOR SCHOOLS OR COLLEGES
RFU Regulation 9 (Player Safety)
RFU Regulation 9 (Player Safety) sets out the responsibilities and requirement of those organising any rugby union activity.
READ MORERisk Assessment
An annual first aid specific risk assessment should be carried out to assess the provision requirements.
READ MOREFirst Aid/Immediate Care Provision
The level of cover that it is reasonable and practicable to provide will depend on the individual circumstances of the school, college or event organiser.
READ MOREFirst Aid/Immediate Care Training
Schools and Colleges should ensure that any first aid / immediate care training is appropriate and meets the RFU’s minimum requirements.
READ MOREMinimum Standards for Coaches & Referees
High quality coaching and officiating can contribute to reducing the risk of injury occurring.
READ MOREFirst Aid Facilities & Equipment
Where possible and practicable, schools/colleges should have a suitable first aid room (or rooms) for use during rugby and other sporting activities.
READ MOREMedical Emergency Action Plan
Schools and colleges have a responsibility to ensure that their facilities provide a safe environment.
READ MOREIncident & Injury Recording/Reporting
As is commonplace in schools, the RFU recommends that any organisation that runs a rugby activity keeps a record of any incidents and/or injuries.
READ MOREManagement of Suspected Concussion
Schools/colleges should ensure that all staff, coaches and referees are aware of and follow the Department of Education Guidelines that are in line with the RFU’s HEADCASE programme guidelines.
READ MORE