You need six stewarding engagements to qualify, across at least four different sections, working with a range of Full Judges. Here’s how to actually get them booked — including the bit most new stewards find daunting: making first contact.
Finding GCCF shows
GCCF shows run throughout the year all over the country. You can find what’s coming up on the GCCF show calendar (gccfcats.org) and through the breed clubs. Pick shows that are a reasonable distance for you, and look for All Breed Championship Shows in particular — you’ll need two of your certificates (the Table Work ones) from those.
Getting on the Steward Directory
Before you start chasing shows, register on the Steward Directory. It’s where show managers and judges look for available stewards near their venue — so once you’re listed, work can come to you, which is far easier than starting cold.
Contacting a show manager
Don’t overthink this — show managers are usually delighted to hear from new stewards. A short, friendly message is all it takes. Here’s one you can copy and adapt:
Hello [name],
I’m a GCCF steward working towards my qualification and I’d love to steward at [show name] on [date]. I’m happy to be paired with any judge who’d welcome a trainee. Could you let me know if you have a space?
Thank you — [your name]
If you’re not sure who the show manager is, the show’s schedule (on the GCCF calendar or the club’s site) lists the contact.
The Roadshow — the friendliest way in
If making cold contact feels like a lot, the GCCF Roadshow is the gentlest on-ramp there is. It’s a relaxed, public-facing event where you can meet judges and experienced stewards in person, see how everything works, and make the connections that lead naturally to your first booking. Many new stewards get their first engagement this way.
A few things worth knowing
No more than two of your six engagements can be with the same Judge — so work with a few different Full Judges.
Up to two of your six can be at the Household Pet (HHP) section of a licensed show — handy when there’s HHP work but no pedigree slot.
Aim to cover at least four different sections across your six engagements.
Next: On the day — what to expect when you actually arrive at the bench.
