Foundation Licence Course – 10 Weeks
Presented by Northampton Radio Club in conjunction with EssexHam.co.uk
Special Collaboration:
Northampton Radio Club are working in conjunction with EssexHam.co.uk in order to bring you this opportunity to gain your Foundation licence.
Welcome to Amateur Radio!
Whether you’re currently chatting on CB, a Freeband user, tuning in as a Shortwave Listener (SWL), or tinkering with electronics, computers and circuit design, amateur radio is the natural next step.
If you have never seen or used amateur radio before, our short overview video gives a quick taste of what to expect. However, it only scratches the surface of our extensive hobby as there is so much to discover—from building your own antennas and operating digital modes to communicating worldwide and working satellites!
Video Feature: A Taste of Amateur Radio (2min overview)
Taught by Experienced Radio Amateurs
Our course is delivered by licensed Radio Amateurs who bring many years of hands-on experience and a wealth of real-world knowledge to every session. Like you, our tutors came to amateur radio from diverse backgrounds and interests—including radio engineers, former CB operators, electronic technicians, and avid shortwave listeners. They understand where you’re starting from and know exactly how to help you expand your passion.
Learning with us is designed to be interactive, welcoming, and enjoyable, with the primary emphasis placed on fun! You’ll enjoy open discussions, practical demonstrations, and friendly support every step of the way as you prepare to earn your callsign.
Course Overview & Syllabus
This 10-week comprehensive course covers all key fundamentals to prepare you for your Foundation Licence exam and getting on the air:
| Module Topic | Description |
| Welcome to Amateur Radio | Introduction to the hobby, operating ethics, and getting started. |
| Technical Basics | Understanding core electrical principles, current, voltage, and power. |
| Transmitters & Receivers | How radio signals are generated, transmitted, and received. |
| Feeders & Antennas | Choosing, matching, and setting up aerials and feedlines for optimal signal. |
| Propagation | How radio waves travel around the Earth and through the atmosphere. |
| Licence Conditions | Understanding radio regulations, callsigns, and legal requirements. |
| EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility) | Avoiding and resolving interference with everyday household electronics. |
| Safety | Working safely with electricity, high RF voltages, aerial masts, and batteries. |
| Operating Practices & Procedures | Making contacts, signal reporting, logging, and proper etiquette. |
| Field Operations | Setting up portable stations, operating outdoors, and participating in events. |
Recommended Study Material
If you are looking to support your training from a sourcebook, you may want to consider the Foundation Study Guide.
This handy-sized study guide covers all of the material from the slides we’ll be using, as well as:
- A full mock test to evaluate your readiness
- Extra tables and photos not found in our slides
- Practical exam tips, guidance, and FAQs
However, comprehensive notes and support materials will be provided.
Availability:
The Foundation Study Guide is available now from Amazon in Paperback and on Kindle, as well as on Apple Books and other formats, including as an audiobook. For more, see the recommended Foundation Study Guide page.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Join the next cohort with Northampton Radio Club to get licensed and get on the air!
Our next course Starts in September 2026, so book your place now by emailing: getontheair@northamptonradioclub.co.uk