A new streamlined path to becoming a GCCF Judge — without lowering standards
If you’ve ever thought about becoming a judge in the GCCF, or you’re currently on the path, now is the time to take a closer look. Major updates to the stewarding and judge training programmes make it faster and more straightforward than ever before to progress — all while maintaining the rigorous standards that GCCF judges are respected for around the world.
Whether you’re a keen exhibitor, an experienced breeder, or already partway through your training, here’s what’s changed and why it matters.
Start Here: Becoming a Qualified GCCF Steward
Before you can apply to become a judge, you must first be a GCCF Qualified Steward. That hasn’t changed — but the way you get there has.
Thanks to the new Stewarding Scheme, becoming a steward is quicker, better supported, and more accessible.
Key changes:
- Clearer structure and support. You now follow a defined pathway with 6 stewarding certificates, 2 table work, and 1 veterinary stewarding.
- Quicker qualification. A determined candidate can complete the requirements within 10 weeks.
- Dedicated resources. Steward training is overseen by the Guild of GCCF Judges & Stewards working with the JASRG. You’ll be supported every step of the way.
For full details, visit: https://www.gccftraining.org/gccf-steward/
Judge Training Just Got Smarter
Once you’ve qualified as a steward, you can apply to become a Student Judge.
Here’s what’s new:
1. Multibreed Training Is Now the Norm
Judge training now follows a multibreed approach, replacing the old breed-by-breed system that many found slow and disjointed. This helps you build wider skills faster and makes the pathway more consistent.
For full details, visit: https://www.gccftraining.org/gccf-student-judge/
Once you have qualified as GCCF Student Judge if you want to train for a single breed only, you can still do that — as a Speciality (Single) Breed Judge — but most candidates are now encouraged to aim for Junior Judge and train to become a Full Judge across their chosen Judge Progression Group (JPG) list.
2. Progress Is Now Automatic at Every Stage (Except One)
Here’s a major change: no more waiting for JPG meetings just to find out whether you can move forward.
Now, promotions are automatic once you’ve met all the criteria — and are checked by the JPG Secretary. This applies at every level except promotion to Full Judge, which still requires a vote at a JPG meeting.
This change:
- Removes long delays between training and recognition
- Reduces subjectivity and inconsistency
- Makes the entire process more transparent
Everything is reviewed as part of normal administrative processes, not held up waiting for discussion.
3. Junior Judge Training Period Cut from Two Years to One
Previously, new judges had to serve two full years as a Junior Judge before applying for promotion.
That rule has now gone.
Now, once you’ve completed the required training and assessments, you can apply after just one year — provided you’re ready.
Why? Because experience has shown that some candidates are ready much sooner. Removing the arbitrary two-year minimum avoids holding back good judges for no reason.
Quality is measured by performance, not time served.
What Stays the Same
GCCF’s training standards are still as high as ever.
- You must complete detailed practical training, written assessments, and hands-on judging at shows.
- Final promotion to Full Judge still requires a vote by the JPG after full consideration.
- Each candidate must show consistent ability, accuracy, and understanding of breed standards.
But now, none of your hard work is delayed unnecessarily.
Summary: What This Means for You
If you’re thinking of becoming a GCCF judge or steward, here’s why now is the best time to get started:
| Old System | New System |
| Lengthy, unclear stewarding requirements with confusing contradictory advice on various platforms | Clear, structured Stewarding Scheme with all documentation, requirements and instructions all found in just one website |
| Judging by breed only | Multibreed as standard (unless you choose not to) |
| Waiting for BAC/JPG votes at every stage | Automatic progress once criteria met |
| Fixed time constraints for promotions | Promotion to Full Judge possible after 1 year of being a Junior Judge |
| Delays from admin bottlenecks | Streamlined, transparent processing |
Where to Learn More
Everything you need to get started is now online, right here, at this dedicated GCCF training website.
This includes:
- Full stewarding guidance
- Judge training guidance across every stage
- Downloadable forms and guides
- All JPG contact details
- Blog that explains in detail various topics surrounding training to become a GCCF Judge.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you’re aiming to become a GCCF judge or simply want to steward at shows with confidence, the new training pathways are the perfect place to begin.
Start your journey today at – https://www.gccftraining.org/guide/
You’ll find everything you need to join the Stewarding Scheme, explore judge training options, and download all the forms to get going.
Don’t wait for an invitation. Take the first step now and join the future of judging.
