Coaching and refereeing school Rugby has become increasingly challenging in recent years, with a greater emphasis on safety. Research shows that effective coach education plays a key role in reducing injuries. This course is designed for teachers and coaches involved in delivering 15-a-side Rugby coaching and officiating matches and practices. It also offers a refresher for teachers updating their coaching methods in line with recently changed tackle laws. The course focuses on the practical aspects of organising a coaching session and introduces a variety of techniques and approaches to practise them effectively.

The emphasis is on modern techniques and simple, imaginative practices. The safety elements of coaching the scrum and contact area are included to give coaches confidence and protection from allegations of negligence.  There will be a focus on the implications of changed tackle requirements.

The afternoon is devoted to refereeing the game at school level. This focuses not only on the basic laws, but also the practicalities for the school referee of creating a safe and even contest and using specific methods of communication to ensure that the match day experience is safe and enjoyable for all involved. 

Coaching

• Understanding and coaching core skills
• Building the skill set for young players
• Implications of the new tackle law
• The contact area and ways to practise it
• Creating a basic backline
• Safe scrummaging

Refereeing

• Applying the law in school matches
• Ensuring safe procedures at scrum and ruck
• Refereeing the new tackle law
• Managing the game through communication
• When and why to blow the whistle – and when not to
• Coping with the mismatch
• Dealing with parents on the touchline