Prior to the introduction of remotely-invigilated online exams that people can take from their own home, there were only about 1500 Foundation exams held each year, that equates to just 125 a month, demand is now running at over four-times that level.

Remote-invigilation and Online Training seems to have made the hobby accessible to so many more people for whom the geographically-patchy club-based training and exams were out of reach.

In response to the demand for remote invigilation exams, the RSGB is launching a new, automated booking system. It will make each part of the process smoother for applicants and HQ staff. All 600 exam slots in June have now been filled, the new booking system went live on 1 June for booking July exam slots.

Virtual Amateur Radio Hub Essex Hams are leading the way with the new style of learning. 420 people attended a course in April 2020, and over 500 in May 2020.

Essex Ham Online Course - https://www.essexham.co.uk/train/foundation-online/

RSGB - https://rsgb.org/main/blog/news/rsgb-notices/2020/05/20/new-booking-system-for-remote-invigilation-exams/