August 2026 – Strategic priorities update

| July 22, 2026

Supporting people on their journey into amateur radio

Supporting people on their journey into amateur radio is one of the most important responsibilities the RSGB carries.

Whether someone is taking their first steps towards a Foundation licence or finding their feet as a new licensee, the experience they have in those early months often shapes their long-term relationship with the hobby.

Part of my Board portfolio covers exams, training, new licensee development (as part of our Spectrum & Licensing strategic priority) and virtual engagement (one of our refreshed Membership strategic priorities). I want to share an update on the work now underway across these areas – work that directly supports all four arms of the RSGB Strategy: growing amateur radio, increasing membership, supporting volunteers and modernising the RSGB.

Exams and standards

The RSGB continues to deliver a strong and reliable examination system, supported by the Exams Team, the Examinations Standards Committee (ESC) and the Exams and Syllabus Review Group (ESRG). Our work with Ofcom reinforces the importance of clarity, consistency and good governance in how the exam system operates.

A major development this spring has been the release of the Full licence exam question bank. Making the whole bank available helps to demystify the exam process, supports trainers in preparing candidates, and gives learners a clearer understanding of the style and scope of questions they may encounter.

It is a practical example of how we are modernising the RSGB and reducing barriers to entry.

Following the retirement of Bev, who served our exam candidates with such dedication, we are pleased to welcome Barbara as the new RSGB HQ Examinations Administrator. Barbara brings strong organisational experience and a calm, learner-focused approach to the role, and we are delighted to have her on board.

Rebuilding engagement with trainers

One of the strongest messages we hear from clubs and independent providers is the need for better communication and a more structured way for trainers to share their experience and insight.

Many of the channels that once supported this – such as the Tutors’ Newsletter and the former Training & Education Committee (TEC) – have fallen away over time. The result is that trainers often feel disconnected from the wider system, and the RSGB does not always receive the structured, practical feedback that would help improve the training and exam experience.

To address this, and in consultation with key stakeholders in the training community, the Board has been exploring a Training & Development Lead (TDL) pilot. The pilot, which would run for 12 months, will focus on mapping the active training community, rebuilding structured engagement, and gathering evidence from real training environments. This work aligns with Project ’30, which is helping ensure that all aspects of the Society’s structure are fit for the future and best able to serve our members.

Trainers do invaluable work, often quietly and without recognition. The aim is not to supervise or direct them, but to listen, understand and support. The TDL pilot will help us to design a modern successor to the former TEC – one that reflects today’s training landscape and provides a reliable route for trainers’ voices to be heard. This is a key part of our commitment to supporting volunteers.

Supporting new licensees

Passing the Foundation exam is an exciting moment, but many new licensees tell us that they would welcome more help in the early stages: practical skills, mentoring, and encouragement to get on the air. Some are unsure how to set up their first station, how to make that first QSO, or how to progress beyond the basics.

Brickworks logo

We are therefore looking at how we can strengthen early support for new licensees. This includes exploring small-scale mentoring pilots, clearer signposting to resources such as our video suites for new licensees, and to the Brickworks scheme, as well as better integration of practical development opportunities. Brickworks in particular has huge potential as a structured pathway for building confidence and good operating practice.

This work directly supports our commitment to grow amateur radio by helping newcomers to become confident, active radio amateurs who stay engaged and progress.

Virtual engagement

Virtual engagement remains an important part of how we reach members and prospective amateurs. The pandemic accelerated the use of online platforms for training, club meetings and events, and many people now rely on virtual channels as part of their amateur radio experience. We are reviewing how best to use these tools to support training, new licensee development and wider RSGB activities. This includes exploring more interactive formats, increased use of digital tools, and new ways to connect people who may not have access to a local club.

Looking ahead

All this work is still developing, but the direction is clear: to strengthen the whole pathway into amateur radio, support those who teach, and help new licensees – and those with long experience – to thrive and try new things. This is in direct support of the RSGB Strategy and the Project ’30 roadmap.

By rebuilding engagement with trainers, improving communication, and providing clearer support for newcomers, we aim to create a more connected, confident and welcoming amateur radio community. I look forward to sharing further updates as this work progresses over the next year, and to working closely with clubs, tutors, providers and licensees across the UK.

Graham J. Smith, G4NMD

RSGB Board Director

strategy@rsgb.org.uk

Category: RSGB Notices, RSGB Strategic Priorities