Newbies On The Air UK

NOTA - Newbies On The Air

Space Needed:
- Dormitory accommodation
- Fully stocked toilets and shower facilities
- Canteen with various food options (including vegetarian/vegan)
- Special events station area for radio operations
- A small room for teaching and workshops
- Outdoor areas with marquees for activities

Meals:
- Day 1: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Day 2: Breakfast, Lunch, and optionally Dinner (depending on check-out time)
- Organized by the event team with a variety of options available to accommodate dietary needs

Budget:
- Accommodation: £1,200 - £4,800
- Food: £1,400 - £3,000
- Venue: £6,000 - £12,000
- Bills: £1,000
- Total Estimated Cost: £9,600 - £20,800
Funding:
- Event fees from participants
- Sponsorships from local businesses or amateur radio clubs
- Crowdfunding or online donations

Event Materials:
- Basic kit-building materials, with pre-organized components and detailed instructions
- Whiteboard for teaching sessions
- Radio equipment: transceivers, antennas, cables, computers for logging and digital modes
- Soldering kits for hands-on activities (seasonal-themed kits like Christmas trees during holidays)
- Reliable internet connection for research and digital radio modes

Key Preparations:
- Create a detailed event timetable, including time slots for operating the event station
- Pre-prepare kits with all necessary components to avoid confusion
- Secure access to emergency supplies and snacks
- Book accommodation and organize food service
- Set up a Discord server or similar platform for communication and coordination
- Coordinate with local radio clubs for volunteers to help with setup and mentoring

What to Bring:
- Handheld radio
- Sufficient clothing and toiletries for 2 days
- Some cash or card for personal expenses
- Any personal radio equipment participants want to use

Day One:
- Morning: Arrivals and check-in, followed by an introductory briefing
- Late Morning: Basic workshops covering the fundamentals of amateur radio (frequencies, antennas, basic operating procedures)
- Afternoon: Kit building (beginner-friendly kits with instructions) and setting up the event station
- Evening: Group dinner followed by an icebreaker event (such as a radio-related game or scavenger hunt)
- Night: Open-air stargazing or outdoor free time by the fire
Day Two:
- Morning: Optional group sightseeing or outdoor activity
- Late Morning: Time slots for operating the event station, with guidance from experienced volunteers
- Afternoon: Participants split into interest groups for activities of their choice (antenna building, digital modes, satellite communication demos, etc.)
- Late Afternoon: Closing remarks, certificates of participation, and group photos
- Evening (optional): Farewell dinner (depending on check-out time)
Optional:
- License exam opportunities for participants (if applicable in the region, e.g., UK sub-regional camp)
- Free time for socializing, relaxing, and experimenting with personal radio setups