SMEE Basic Training Course restarting

The Society of Model and Experimental Engineers (SMEE) is restarting training courses for newcomers to model engineering, in 2022. Part 1 is a three-day course running on Saturdays, February to April, It is designed to introduce newcomers to the hobby, and to help with deci­sions on the setting up of a workshop, and the purchase and use of machines and tools. It also deals with adhesives, soldering, silver brazing, tool sharpening, measurement and marking out.

Part 2 is the “Polly” course which covers the building of a simple working model engine and boiler. This is spread over six, monthly, Saturdays. In each session a different part of the project is demonstrated for students to complete in their home workshops, ending up with a working steam model. The project involves sheet metal work, soft soldering, silver brazing, turning, milling, and painting, and will equip students with all they need to undertake further engi­neering projects and develop their skills. Although aimed at model engineering, previous students have also been involved in restoration of classic cars and motorcycles. The Society also runs one-day courses in milling and in tool grinding.

SMEE is based in Lambeth, South London. Access is easy via Thameslink trains calling at Loughborough Junction station from where the building is just a few minutes’ walk.

Full details of the courses are available on the SMEE website at https://www.sm-ee.co.uk. If you know of anyone who might find the courses useful, please pass on the details

How about running these type of courses in regional centres, there is life out side the home counties!!!!

Iain Hale

SMEE is an organisation based in London, with premises in London. Although they do have a national membership, they are not a national organisation. They are to be applauded for offering something that not many organisations can or are willing to offer.

We did discuss the possibility, but the logistics of taking the existing courses outside London are formidable. Would involve hotel expenses, moving all sorts of equipment and big commitments of time, so was totally impractical. We also had enquiries from other Societies but none of them wanted to take it on once they understood what is involved. It's a lot of work and all done by volunteers.

Dear Norman

Many thanks for your reply, I understand better how regional workshops are a none starter. I will see if I can seek resources closer to home

Kind Regards

Iain

Might be worth mentioning that the next Polly course starts on May 14 so there is still time to book.

I should have said that we are experimenting with remote attendance at the current basic course, via Zoom. Very much an experiment at the moment but if it works out, it's possible we might offer it for the Polly course in May.