The RSGB have identified that quite a few people who pass their Foundation Exam do not actually get on air and for some at least it may be that they need extra help with the practical aspects of setting up a station and the confidence of going on the air for the first time on their own.
As winners of the 2009 Kenwood Trophy for outstanding contribution to training, the RSGB asked Norfolk Amateur Radio Club to look at developing a 'mentoring' initiative which, if successful, could be adopted by other clubs nationwide. So for the first time we are piloting our new 'Radio Buddy' scheme with our new amateurs, where each new licencee is assigned a 'buddy' from within the club with a special buddy card who will help get them on the air and put them in touch with other amateurs with similar interests. Whilst their is never an obligation to join NARC for a course, the club will also offer all newcomers 3 months free membership to help them get started.
We will let you know how the buddy scheme goes, meantime if you are a NARC member and would like to be a buddy for future new licencees, please send your name, address and contact details together with a few words about your particular interest in radio and a 'head and shoulders' digital picture of yourself (smiling!) to G7URP who will make this up into a Radio Buddy card to use for future courses.