MATCH EXPERIENCE
Most of the matches listed below are available in schools as well as clubs, and the principles of gaining experience under supervision are valid for both.
• Tag is a very good starting point as it is fast and requires firm management and decision making, although on a reduced pitch. This means that fitness is less of an issue than clear whistling, signalling and decisions.
• U12 contact rugby on a reduced pitch is also a very good for practical experience, and county tournaments can give a good grounding in the basics for groups of referees working in teams.
• Youth 7s tournaments on a full pitch also test fitness and give different problems to overcome.
All of these are good for very young officials as the matches are short, thus giving time to correct and review, as well as watching others.
• U13 matches on full pitch are the main area of development, and here the referee starts to develop management of players linked to an awareness of the importance of position. No progress up the age ranges should occur until this age group has been successfully mastered, as problems not resolved at this level will be exacerbated at higher levels.
• U14-U16 matches should be worked through steadily, with particular care at U16 level when players can be difficult to control. Only when fully competent and confident at each age range should there be progress to the next.
• Adult matches (i.e. 3rd or 4th team) should only be attempted once U16 level has been mastered and the referee is at least 17 years old.
RFU.com 
Search
