In the past few years, Amateur Radio Training has undergone some fundamental changes. A syllabus re-write in 2019 and the various lockdowns and COVID-19 restrictions presented severe challenges for clubs running face to face courses. During that time the RSGB (Radio Society of Great Britain) developed an online examination system. This, along with various online courses, has increased accessibility to the hobby. Students can study in their own time and, when they are ready, take their examinations online in their own home. We recognise that this system is ideal for many people, but there are some who would like or need additional face to face support. At CARS we don’t currently run face to face courses but we are able to provide support to members on an individual or small group basis.
For those unfamiliar with the process there are three levels of Amateur Radio Licence. They are known as the Foundation, the Intermediate and the Full (previously called the Advanced). The examination for each of these levels must be taken in sequence although progression is not
mandated and you can ‘stop’ at the level of your choosing.
With each level you gain more privileges in terms of transmitter power output, access to different bands, authority to build and test your own transmitters, operation at sea, and various other enhancements. The starting level Foundation Course is not too technical and is a good way to experience many aspects of the hobby without too much commitment or cost and is an ideal introduction. Joining a club, such as CARS, will help to put the theoretical learning from an online course into practise and give new entrants to the hobby the opportunity to use radio equipment in a safe and controlled environment with lots of help on hand if needed.
You can find out more about amateur radio in general on the RSGB (Radio Society of Great Britain) website – https://rsgb.org/.
Useful link to online courses – https://www.essexham.co.uk/.
If you would like to know more or are taking an online course and think you may benefit from some hands on experience, please register your interest using our Contact form.