New Officiating Pathways
Two new pathways, effective September 2027: one for umpires, one for the people developing them.
New Officiating Pathways
Two new pathways, effective September 2027: one for umpires, one for the people developing them.
England Hockey is introducing a new Umpire Pathway and Umpire Developer Pathway starting in September 2027. These give us two simple, consistent routes: one for umpires stepping through their grades, and one for the developers who coach, mentor, assess, and support them.
Our Core Principles
Discover the four key principles behind the new pathways, built to support umpires, developers, and clubs at every level.
- Consistent Standards: Simple, consistent grading rules and expectations across every area and league
- Focus on Development: Supporting umpires through learning, practical experience and feedback before formal assessment where required
- Clear Progression: Easy step-by-step roadmaps showing exactly how to move from club matches up to national panels
- Joined Up Network: Linking clubs, area committees, and national support teams so everyone works together
How It Impacts You
Choose your role below to see how the new pathways work for you.
Transitioning to the New Pathways
We are helping all active umpires, developers, and clubs prepare for a smooth launch in September 2027.