Lincolnshire FA are delighted to share details of the FA Progression Pathway and confirm that the application process for 2023/24 is NOW OPEN!

The FA Referee Progression Pathway will create more progression opportunities for referees across the grassroots game (Levels 5, 6, 7 & Youth Referees). The priorities of this change will focus on:  

• Giving referees greater control over their own progression 
• Providing a route for expedited progression for those able to commit to more games 
• Instilling a developmental philosophy into grassroots refereeing 
• Motivating and incentivising refereeing through structural change 
• Removing some of the key barriers to progress 

How? 

The methodology has replaced the annual promotion process based on formal assessments, with progression based on: 

• Number of appointments
• Completion of free online referee development modules 
• Support and advice from Match Day Coaches, not Observers 
• Successful completion of a Laws of the Game exam 
• Attendance at face-to-face mandatory training (Level 6-5 only) 

Please also find detailed below specific information for each of the promotion levels providing exact information on what is required:  

Youth Referees – Y1 & Y2  (PDF)

Level 7-6  (PDF)

Level 6-5 (PDF)

Level 5-4 (PDF)

4W – 3W (Female Referee Pathway)  (PDF)

APPLICATION LINK

Referee Promotion applications are currently closed. These will reopen on 1st June 2024 ahead of the 2024/25 season. Please check back for the opening of applications on this date.

For those candidates applying for Level 5-4, we will confirm the dates of the Lincolnshire FA fitness test in due course following your application. 

We look forward to supporting those of you who wish to apply.