This one-day course is ideal if you own or plan to operate a marine VHF radio and want confidence in safe, legal communication at sea. You’ll complete pre-course learning, join an interactive classroom session with hands-on simulators, and have the option to take the official SRC exam for a lifetime licence. The course equips you with skills recognised by law, clubs, and charter companies.
Before the classroom session, you’ll receive pre-course learning materials including videos, exercises, a quiz, and the RYA VHF handbook. This ensures you arrive ready to focus on practical skills and gain the most from your time in class.
In the classroom, you’ll use realistic ICOM M330GE simulator radios to practise everyday and emergency communications. Tasks are completed in pairs, giving hands-on experience with digital selective calling, mayday procedures, and coordinating with fellow crew. Low ratios mean plenty of opportunity to ask questions and receive guidance.
During the day, interactive scenarios recreate common on-water situations such as man overboard alerts, navigational calls, and distress communication. Those opting to take the exam will then complete it under official RYA supervision, leaving the course with a lifetime SRC licence if successful.
Banbury Sailing Club, at Boddington Reservoir, provides a safe and accessible base for learning. Classroom space is well-equipped for practical radio exercises, with free on-site and street parking for convenience.
The venue allows close guidance from instructors, ensuring you can practise skills safely and receive immediate feedback. Summer sessions may also be run at alternative locations nearby, giving flexibility for learners across the Midlands.
No previous experience with VHF radios is necessary. All you need is a willingness to engage with pre-course materials and follow instructions during practical exercises.
The course suits anyone aged 16 or older, and is ideal if you want to operate radios safely, meet legal requirements, or complete commercial endorsements. Comfortable clothing is recommended, and bringing a packed lunch will help you stay focused throughout the day.
Hands-on learning with realistic ICOM M330GE simulators means you practise on the same equipment you’ll use in real life. Small class sizes and low ratios allow focused guidance and personalised instruction throughout the day.
Interactive scenarios and engaging pre-course materials ensure you gain confidence in communication skills before even entering the classroom. Instructors provide step-by-step support and practical advice, helping you leave with the knowledge and competence to operate legally and safely, with the option to earn a lifetime SRC licence.
No previous radio knowledge is required. You’ll start with the basics and gradually build competence using realistic simulator exercises.
Even if you’ve operated a VHF radio before, you’ll benefit from scenario practice, learning proper procedures, and gaining confidence for emergency and routine communications.
You must be at least 16 to attend. This ensures compliance with legal requirements for SRC certification and safe operation during practical exercises.
You’ll be able to engage fully in classroom and simulator tasks without restrictions, with instructors providing support and guidance as needed.
You’ll use ICOM M330GE simulator radios modelled on real VHF equipment, giving a realistic, hands-on experience. Training is done in pairs for collaborative learning.
All other materials, including the RYA VHF handbook, pre-course exercises, and stationery, are supplied to make learning seamless.
The classroom provides a controlled environment where instructors can closely monitor all activities. Low ratios allow immediate guidance and correction to ensure safe, effective learning.
Scenario exercises are carefully structured, allowing you to practise emergency and routine communications without any risk, under expert supervision.
Total commitment is 10 hours plus the optional exam: 3 hours pre-course work, 7 hours classroom, and 1–2 hours exam if chosen.
Breaks are included, and unlimited tea and coffee help maintain focus during a full day of interactive training.
A packed lunch, comfortable clothing suitable for classroom activities, and any personal items you may need during the day.
No personal radios are needed, as realistic simulator equipment is provided for all tasks.
Yes, the exam can be taken immediately with an RYA examiner. The £76 exam fee must be paid directly to the RYA.
You are free to complete the course without taking the exam, gaining full knowledge of VHF operation but without the SRC license.
Yes, the SRC license is required for commercial RYA/MCA certificates and is accepted by many boat clubs and charter companies.
Completing the course and passing the exam results in a lifetime SRC license, allowing legal and confident operation of VHF radios on British-flagged vessels.
About the centre
Byfield, Daventry
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