Coding and amateur radio

With technology constantly evolving and becoming more integrated into our daily lives, coding and programming have also become increasingly valuable skills to have in amateur radio.

Contrary to popular belief, coding – or programming as it is often called – is not all about numbers and algorithms, it also involves creativity and problem-solving skills. Whether you want to try something new just for fun or find a way to use programming within your current amateur radio interests, we have something for you!

National Coding Week 2025

National Coding Week (NCW) takes place during the third week of September and for the last three years the RSGB has dedicated the whole of the month to amateur radio and coding activities.

New activities for 2025

This year, the RSGB has created two new activities for you to try. Both build on activities we shared in previous years, but you don’t have to have done those first.

• Python Pocket Morse: take advantage of this low-cost opportunity to learn some Morse and programming together

• LoRa high-altitude balloon activity: whether you’re a beginner or an experienced coder, this is the perfect opportunity to sharpen your skills and discover new ways to use them within amateur radio.

Further inspiration

Whether you want to try Raspberry Pico coding, or perhaps give networking with the BBC micro:bit a go, take a look at our previous years’ activities to get started – there are nine worksheets to choose from.

Let us know how you get on! Send a short summary of your experience, along with photos to comms@rsgb.org.uk