Are you already trialing? If you want to get more involved with SWUK then this Workshop is just for you.

As a competitor you already know how much fun competing with your dog is and as a judge you get to watch all the different ways our amazing dogs hunt out target scent.

We are always on the look out for more judges to help at trials. Without judges, scribes and trial managers there would be no trials for us all to enjoy.

This workshop is designed to take you through each level at Tier 1 (Levels 1-4) to get you trial ready.In order to Judge you must:

• have previously undertaken a Judges part 1 Workshop. You do not need to retrain if you are actively judging having taken a Judges Workshop prior to May 1st 2023.

• have completed Tier 1 Judges workshop

Plus you must:

• have qualified as a competitor in the Level you are going to going to judge

or

• have been assessed by an independent judge. If candidate does not have a dog with whom they are competing, they must first have taken an assessment to show competency in setting an appropriate test, delivering fair judgement and applying any necessary deductions. Candidate is to shadow judge and be deemed competent at a live trial. A non-refundable assessment fee of £15 will be required per candidate. (Option to do via Facetime if necessary).

NB. Permitted to judge at Tier 1 as long as assessment passed not below Level 4.

Key topics include:

• How to set an appropriate test
• How scent moves
• Contamination
• Equipment
• Scoring the trial
• Working with other members of the Trial Team
• Pre & post trial briefings
• Dealing with competitors and their dogs
• Avoiding pitfalls

Once you start judging you will be surprised at how watching the great variety of dogs and the different methods of handling will improve your own skills and knowledge, a front row seat in fun learning. You will become well practiced in setting tests appropriate to the level of trial you will be judging including where and where not to hide scent plus becoming more aware of environmental effects on scent and the handler and dog teams.

This will be a practical face to face workshop where participation with your own dog is encouraged to help set up realistic trial scenarios. At regular times throughout the day your dog will need to have rest and take breaks in your vehicle. Individuals will be responsible for ensuring the comfort and safety of their own dogs. An exercise area will be available.

All venues for workshops and trials have been risk assessed, toilets and kitchen facilities will be available along with light refreshments of tea/coffee/biscuits. You will need to bring your own lunch and plenty of snacks for your dog.

Please complete the booking form below to secure your place on this workshop.

Further details will be provided before the course commences. Any questions please get in touch with Justine.

Price for new judges is £80

Any previously qualified judges can take the relevant workshop as an optional ‘refresher’ at £25  (We hope the refresher will provide the participant with a confidence and energy that will get the best from dog/handler teams to be tested). PLEASE CONTACT JUSTINE DIRECTLY TO GET THIS CONCESSION

Any previously qualified judges can take the relevant workshop as an optional ‘refresher’ at £25  (We hope the refresher will provide the participant with a confidence and energy that will get the best from dog/handler teams to be tested). PLEASE CONTACT JUSTINE DIRECTLY TO GET THIS CONCESSION