Disclosure time: I work at what you might, in this thread, describe as a “Posh” school, and whilst we might not be as “posh” school
@PinnerPaul describes, we are better at Football than them (if I’m guessing correctly, we beat them earlier in the year). In fact, I would describe us as amongst the top footballing schools in the country (both state & Independent)
Although “only” a mere maths teacher, I have been heavily involved in the school’s football, acting as fixtures Secretary for a number of years, and am now “chief referee” for want of a better term.
My only bugbear is that, as our 1st XI play in high status leagues & cups, I only get to ref the in friendlies and have to arrange neutral officials for most of their games. However, our 2nd XI are also of a high standard and I get to officiate some great games with teams, that on the whole, want to play football.
All the above is not to blow my own trumpet, but to highlight that there are some great opportunities out there for you as a referee: the pitches will be as good as any in the country, you will be well looked after and the standard of football can be very, very high. If you are interested, and in the south west, I’m always looking for additional referees - we play on Wednesday and Saturday afternoon’s- if you’re not in the South West I’m happy to point you in the direction (and possibly give you contact details) of the big and best football playing Independent Schools in your area.
(And Paul, your right, everyone adult is old to a 14 yr old schoolboy!)