Foundation Amateur Radio Course in Scotland - any interest?

[Doc]

I'm currently in the process of becoming a registered instructor for amateur radio licensing courses, as part of my role as a civilian instructor in the air cadets.

It might be possible for me to run a Foundation Licence course for other groups too. It would involve ten hours of instruction, and a 25 question multiple choice exam. Fees would be £27 or so for the exam, and a few quid for venue hire. I don't charge for my time. Venue is in Crieff Perthshire. Would probably do it over a weekend in spring 2012. I can accommodate twenty candidates.

Successful candidates can then apply to the government agency Ofcom for a licence and callsign. This is free.

http://www.rsgb.org/arls/foundation_licence.php

Benefits of a licence:

- Looks good on the CV
- Opportunities to volunteer in emergency communications (RAYNET)
- Allows world wide communication on short wave
- Allows use of amateur UHF/VHF handheld equipment, and range is greatly extended by repeater stations
- Can use Data comms, satellites, morse, slow scan television etc
- Combines well with camping especially on the long dark winter nights
- Pleasure from talking to citizens of different countries
- Satisfying technical pursuit
- Advanced licence allows operation abroad in Europe, Canada, US, Australia etc.

If anyone is even possibly interested, put your name down on the thread (without any obligation) and I will get back nearer the time.

 

[nunzionuk]

I remember doing my training in the air cadets, just never done it since then.

 

[mark]

I'd be interested - I've looked into this in the past but had no response from those that I contacted so I left it.

 

[TeeDee]

Doc , How do I tell which of my local Providers will teach the Foundation course in a single block sitting?? ie 10 hours straight as opposed to 5 weeks of 2 hours.

Many thanks and well done, shame your not closer.

 

[Doc]

Hi Mark, interest noted.

Teedee, I think the only way to find out is from the individual provider or club - the RSGB course search isn't great. When I tried to get my son on the course I found some places had no courses planned, or were only open to pupils at a particular school, or whatever. In the end we went to the excellent Cockenzie and Port Seaton club, who were brilliant, but it was a three hour round trip.

 

[BillyBlade]

I'd be up for that. Let me know when it's firmed up

 

[santaman2000]

You have to go through a course to get your license?

 

[Doc]

Billyblade, roger, will PM you nearer the time.

Santaman, yes, you do now. But this is a new thing to cover the practical assessments. I was self taught when I did my exam.

 

[EdS]

date and cheap accommodation depending - I'm interested

 

[BillyBlade]

Thanks Doc, I did the study for it many years ago, but joined the military before I got to take the test. I also have a radio licence through flying, so not sure if that will come in useful?

All in, I think having the skill and having the kit would be a very useful skill to have indeed as an ally to this hobby.

 

[Bigfoot]

I did a basic VHF thing years ago but would welcome "upping the ante" so yes please, note my interest.

 

[Mikey P]

Well done Pete! If I didn't have my license already I'd be well up for it!

 

[santaman2000]

Billyblade, roger, will PM you nearer the time.

Santaman, yes, you do now. But this is a new thing to cover the practical assessments. I was self taught when I did my exam.

Thanks. I was self taught as well; at least as far as the "Technician", and "General" exams. There's no way I'll be able to do the "Extra" exam without instruction though. It's still legal as such, but I couldn't pass it alone.

 

[SCOMAN]

I could be interested Doc, was an operator in the military and hold a GMDSS Long Range Cert