The NLDRURS offers training and development to its members and other referees throughout the NLD through a dedicated Training and Development (T&D) team. The team is headed by the Society Match Official Development Officer (SMODO). The T&D team work to develop referees in all manner of ways from identifying and accelerating high-potential referee to ensuring all referees operate safely.
Training Meetings
The T&D Team run regular training meetings during the season. This season, these are being held at different clubs in each of our regions as well as being streamed live to ensure we reach as many members as possible. The planned 2025/26 dates are shown below but are subject to change.

- Nottinghamshire – Mellish RFC
- Lincolnshire – Lincoln RFC
- Derbyshire – Long Eaton RFC
Gradings
The T&D team work to develop referees in all areas, including to the point that they can be promoted to referee higher level matches in line with the grading policy which can be found here. See the resources at the bottom of the page for the grading request form.
Match Official Development Forms
Generally, members should use the online version of the below forms via WhosTheRef. However, some find it easier to use the below downloadable versions, then copy & paste into WhosTheRef:
- Match Official Development Review Form 1
- Match Official Development Review Form 2
- Match Official Development Report (Form 2) Matrix
Training Resources
On-demand resources are available below for all to use, including material shown at past training meetings.
NLDRURS Resources:
- Training Material
- NLDRURS Grading Policy
- Grading Review Request Form
- Blank Personal Development Plan (PDP)
Other Resources:
- Global Law Trials – World Rugby Website
- World Rugby Laws – World Rugby Website
- RFU Developers Page – RFU Website
- RFU Referee Learning Hub – RFU Website
- Regulations
- World Rugby Head Contact Process