Introduction to Manual Metal Arc (MMA) Welding

Course is for: Adult
Learning Support:
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Get hands-on, learn a new skill and take your first step into welding.

Whether you’re exploring a career in engineering, looking to develop your practical skills or already working in industry, this introductory course will help you build confidence in Manual Metal Arc (MMA) welding, also known as stick welding.

You’ll combine essential theory with practical workshop sessions, learning how to prepare materials, set up equipment and produce basic welds.

Course content includes:

Workshop health and safety, protective equipment and safe working practices
How MMA welding works and where it is used
Equipment set-up, welding current and electrode selection
Preparing materials and positioning work ready for welding
Striking and maintaining an arc
Controlling electrode angle, arc length and travel speed
Producing weld beads and introductory welded joints
Removing slag safely and checking the appearance of your welds
Using materials efficiently and reducing unnecessary waste
You’ll also explore career opportunities and the next steps available in welding, fabrication and engineering

Assessment

You’ll demonstrate your learning through practical welding tasks and checks of your underpinning knowledge.

Regular tutor feedback will help you improve your technique and prepare for assessment.

Facilities, Kit And Equipment

You’ll learn in our specialist welding workshops, using dedicated welding stations, extraction equipment, fabrication benches and engineering tools.

How We Can Support You

Whatever support you need, we’re here for you and will make sure you get the most out of your time at college.

We have expert teams in place to look after every single one of our students.

Our specialist teams can help with:

Learning difficulties
Physical and sensory disabilities
Dyslexia, dyspraxia, neurodiversity or other specific learning difficulties
Mental health and well being
Exam access arrangements
Money, finance and bursary advice
Careers advice, job and university applications

See here for more information, pop into one of our enrolment events, call us on 0191 490 4627.

Next Steps

Continue developing your skills through Level 2 MMA welding, or broaden your experience by exploring MIG or TIG welding.

Required Entry Qualifications

This course is aimed at beginners and adults looking to refresh their basic welding skills.

You’ll need a willingness to learn, take part in practical activities and follow workshop safety instructions.

Future Careers

Your welding skills could be the start of a career making, maintaining and repairing the things we rely on every day.

With further training and experience, you could progress into roles such as:

Welder: joining metal components for engineering and manufacturing projects.
Fabricator: making metal structures and products from technical drawings.
Maintenance technician: helping keep machinery and equipment working safely.
Structural steel welder: working on steelwork for buildings and infrastructure.
Marine or offshore welder: supporting shipbuilding, repairs and energy projects.

This introductory course gives you a foundation to build on through Level 2 welding, further engineering study or an apprenticeship.

Specialist roles require additional qualifications, experience and where relevant, welding certification.

Finance And Funding

You may be eligible for help with course fees, depending on your circumstances and the funding available.

Contact our team for advice about eligibility and course costs.

Attendance Times

Mondays & Wednesdays, 6pm to 9pm