🚀 Empowering Students Through Rugby Refereeing


What is the Secondary School Referee Academy?

The Auckland Rugby Referees Association in conjunction with Auckland Rugby and The Learning Place, is excited to offer a unique opportunity for Year 11-13 students to develop their rugby knowledge, leadership skills, and confidence through our Auckland Rugby Student Referee Academy.


This three-day program is designed for students who love rugby or sport but may not be playing. It provides valuable on-field and off-field development, including:


✅ Up to 13 NCEA Unit Standards
✅ Hands-on refereeing experience with mentoring & coaching
✅ Exclusive referee match-day kit (shirt, whistle, cap, etc.)
✅ Pathways to officiate school & club rugby
✅ Experiences money can’t buy - Opportunities to be involved in Super Rugby, NPC, and All Blacks test matches at Eden Park (**see below)


Key Details:

📍 For Central & West Schools - Mount Albert Grammar – April 15-17
📍 For South & East Schools - Macleans College – April 22-24
👥 Limited spots available – Max 20 students per course


Why Should Students Join?

🌟 Gain valuable life skills – develop leadership, communication & decision-making skills
🏉 Be part of the game from a new perspective (the best seat in the house)
🎓 Earn up to 13 x NCEA level 3 credits while developing confidence & resilience
💼 Open doors to future pathways in sport


Benefits for a School

🏫 Enhances student engagement & leadership development
📚 Supports the curriculum by providing NCEA-accredited learning
🏉 Strengthens school rugby programs by supporting teams with suitably certified referees increasing match-day coverage
🙌 Develops key skills like communication, decision-making & teamwork
💡 Provides new opportunities for students interested in sport but not playing
🤝 Connects your school with a leading sports organisation


Exciting Incentives!

🎟️ Students who referee 5+ matches post-course will enter a draw for a “Money Can’t Buy” All Blacks Test Match Experience, including:

  • Attending an All Blacks Captain’s Run at Eden Park
  • Being the H2O Manager for the referee at the All Blacks v Australia Test


Costs & Funding

💰 The cost per student is $350 of which Auckland Rugby will fund $225

Total cost per student: $125
✅ Schools may also subsidize or fully fund participation, which you can apply for through your SAF funding through Auckland Rugby.
✅ Covers the 3-day training course, NCEA credits, referee kit & ongoing mentoring


Applications close Friday April 4th for confirmation on Tuesday 8th April.


📢 Schools & Students – Get Involved!​​​​​​​

For more information, contact Antony Petrie - 027 439 0456 - ant.petrie@aucklandrugby.co.nz

To register, complete the form below.