One of the ways you can enjoy your hobby and learn about the different breeds is to steward at cats shows. You can become a qualified GCCF Steward which is the very first step towards becoming a GCCF Judge.
Stewarding is the first step in the GCCF training pathway for anyone who wants to qualify as a steward or begin their journey towards becoming a judge.
It offers the chance to gain hands-on show experience, learn from experienced judges, and develop the essential skills needed to handle and present cats confidently and professionally.
Some stewards train for the enjoyment and pride of being a GCCF Steward (Fully Qualified), while others use stewarding as the foundation for progressing to the Student Judge Training Scheme.
Whichever route you choose, this page explains how to get started.
How to Become a GCCF Steward
Here is quick step-by-step rundown on what you need to do to become a GCCF Steward (Fully Qualified).
Step 1: Complete the Application Form to Join
- Download the application form to join the GCCF stewarding scheme and become a member of the Guild of Judges and Stewards.
- Complete the short application form and send to the Guild Secretary (details are on the form).
- Pay the Guild membership fee of £5.
Download the application form.
DownloadIf you have completed and submitted the form and also paid your membership fee to the Guild then acceptance onto the stewarding scheme is automatic and you will receive an email to confirm this.
Step 2: Complete Your Steward Training
Now you have joined the stewarding scheme it is time to get started with the training, there are no time restrictions so you can do the training at your own pace. A determined steward could complete the training in less than 8-9 weeks.
- Undertake six stewarding engagements at GCCF licensed shows across different sections.
- Complete two table work certificates at All Breed Championship Shows.
- (If you are a Section Manager or Show Manager, the table work requirement may be waived.)
- Steward for a Veterinary Surgeon at a GCCF show for at least half a day, or until discharged by the vet.
- If you plan to continue on to Student Judge training, you may replace this with the more detailed Veterinary Assessment required for Student Judge qualification. (You can download the Veterinary Assessment form from the Downloads Page)
Keep careful records of your progress and submit certificates after each engagement.
- After each engagement, send your signed certificates back to the Guild within 28 days.
- Maintain your own copies for your records.
You must submit your stewarding forms, your veterinary form and you table work forms within 28 days of the show.
Step 3: Apply to be Promoted to a GCCF Steward (Fully Qualified)
Once you have completed your training and sent in your application for promotion form, the Guild will then review your certificates. Once this has been reviewed your promotion to GCCF Steward (Fully Qualified) is automatic. You will receive your GCCF Stewarding Badge and be listed as a GCCF Steward (Fully Qualified).
Stewarding Documents
It is important that you read an understand the following two documents.
Further Stewarding Document Downloads
You can download the certificates and forms you will need to complete in order to complete your training.
Want to Become a Student Judge?
If you would like to continue your training journey and apply to join the GCCF Student Judge Training Scheme, you can apply once you have qualified as a steward.
If you are planning to progress, you can substitute the basic veterinary stewarding for the full Veterinary Assessment required for Student Judge qualification.
Find out more about becoming a Student Judge
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a table work certificate?
It records your experience of assisting with show paperwork and organisation. Two certificates are required unless you are a Section or Show Manager.
What happens after I qualify?
You will receive your GCCF Stewarding Badge and can steward at GCCF shows. You may also apply to progress to Student Judge training if you wish.
Can I steward just for experience without joining the scheme?
Yes, anyone can steward at GCCF shows. However, completing the formal Stewarding Scheme allows you to become a fully qualified GCCF Steward.
How do I apply to the Guild?
You need to complete the Guild Membership Subscription Form and pay the £5 membership fee.
Do I also have to steward for a vet?
Yes. To qualify as a GCCF Steward (Fully Qualified), you must complete half a day stewarding for a Veterinary Surgeon unless you plan to progress to Student Judge training, in which case you will complete a full Veterinary Assessment later.
If I have completed all the criteria for progression to GCCF Steward (Fully Qualified), is approval automatic?
Approval to be listed as a GCCF Steward (Fully Qualified) is automatic, provided that there are no queries or concerns raised during the review.
Can I include stewarding certificates from Full GCCF Judges from GCCFI shows?
Yes.
