A TOTAL of 10 young people are setting out to become football referees in their communities.
The group from Petty Pool College in Sandiway earned a nationally recognised qualification through an adapted eight-week FA Referee Course designed for learners with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Delivered by Cheshire FA, the programme focused on more than just the rules of the game, blending practical activities with shorter learning sessions and tailored support.
It aimed to give every learner the confidence and skills to lead and communicate effectively on the pitch.
Danielle Welsh, learning mentor at Petty Pool College, said: "Refereeing asks a lot of people.
"It takes confidence, resilience and the ability to make decisions under pressure, and we've watched those qualities grow in every learner throughout the programme.
"Watching our learners achieve a nationally recognised qualification has been incredibly rewarding.
"They're now preparing to referee competitive matches with confidence and step into a role they may never have imagined possible.
"The skills they've developed will stay with them long after the final whistle."
Funded by the Journey to Inclusion Fund, the course was free for all participants and included a full referee kit.
The new referees will begin by officiating games in the Ability Counts League, gaining experience and completing the five fixtures required for full referee accreditation.
Many will have the opportunity to continue refereeing in grassroots football beyond the programme.
Ryan Bostock, referee development officer at Cheshire FA, said: "Adapting the course has shown that refereeing really can be accessible to everyone.
"The learners embraced every challenge with enthusiasm, and we're looking forward to supporting them as they begin officiating in the Ability Counts League."
The programme is the first of its kind in Cheshire and part of a broader effort by Cheshire FA to make football more inclusive.
For the learners, it marks the start of a promising new chapter—one that could see them officiating games across the county.
Ms Welsh said: "The skills they've developed will stay with them long after the final whistle."
Their achievement not only highlights the importance of accessible opportunities in sport but also demonstrates the impact of inclusive education and community support.
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