The RSGB’s Examinations Standards Committee and Exam Syllabus Review Group have just released the latest version of the Syllabus: Syllabus 2019 version 1.5
New regulations from Ofcom require all UK radio amateurs to comply with the international guidelines for limiting exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF). The updated syllabus includes learning points relating to these new licence conditions.
The adoption date for this version is 1 September 2022, meaning that after that date the examinations will include questions on the new EMF-related material at all levels.
Comments from the Secretary (Nancy Bone, G7UUR)
Firstly, the present 3 tier system has been agreed between Ofcom and the RSGB and will not change. It was introduced to attract more people especially children over 8 and young people into the hobby. Some people stay at Foundation level, but they must be literate and numerate and have a degree of understanding especially since they must go online to register for an exam and take it. A reader can be vetted and accepted to help blind people and dyslexics etc. Ofcom wants amateurs to abide by licensing conditions; apply health and safety rules to keep themselves and others safe; and avoid interference.