Match officials walk on to the pitch

FA Referee Progression Pathway 2023/24

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

In order to submit an application for one of the above progression pathways, please use the following link, Level 5-4 applications must be received by 1st September 2023.

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

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

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Grassroots Referee Pathway poster

Get in touch

Michael Brader

Referee Development Manager

T: 03449670708
E: michael.brader@lincolnshirefa.com