This is a course for teachers and coaches involved in delivering 15-a-side Rugby coaching, and refereeing matches and practices for the first time. It will also provide a refresher for teachers adjusting their coaching to accommodate new tackle laws. It focuses on the practicalities of organising a coaching session, and introduces a range of techniques and ways to practise them. 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. Particular attention is paid to considering how to deal with parents on the touchline, and prevent the emergence of dissatisfaction in that area. This course is designed to build confidence in teachers who are new to coaching the game, or who are not comfortable with the idea of refereeing a school match.

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