Course: GRP Repairs

GRP Repairs is aimed at the boat builder who wishes to keep on top of the typical repair and maintenance tasks which arise when one owns a boat. From gelcoat cracks and scratches to damage around fittings, to scrapes from moorings or even minor hull collisions which result in small hull punctures. However, the course is also intended to provide a solid grounding in the use and application of glass reinforcement materials and polyester resins, and in the production of simple moulds and mouldings.

The course starts with the basics of working safely with polyester-based glass reinforced plastics (GRP). Learn methods for the safe handling, mixing, trimming, storage, and disposal of the materials used. Understand the functions of the components such as resins, catalyst, and pigments, before tackling practical hands-on activities. In our GRP workshop, you will prepare moulds and perform simple lay-ups to get to grips with using the materials, before learning techniques to repair damage to hulls and gel coats, this includes colour matching. You will also learn methods required to undertake more complex repairs that require temporary moulds, for instance to reconstruct shaped areas such as bilge keels or transom corners. By the end of the course, you will be well prepared to carry out day to day repairs for common minor damage and to produce simple GRP components.

The Boat Building Academy was founded in 1997 by naval commander Tim Gedge. He was a great sailor who realized there was a gap in the marine industry, which was lacking boating skills as well as, boat builders to fill all positions.

An old RAF lookout post, located in Monmouth Beach, Lyme Regis, is the home for a team of tutors and staff with the common passion for teaching the craft of building and making. The Academy has become a leading boat building school in the UK and the world, offering a range of course for those interested in learning the art of boat building and woodworking.

In 2009, the BBA developed a furniture making course program with the same philosophy as the boat building education, intensive and practical development of competencies. Today, the Boat Building Academy & Furniture School continues to train women and men from all walks of life with the common passion for building and making.

You can apply for a bursary for all courses at the Boat Building Academy, from 1 day to 40-weeks. Awards will be dependent on being offered a place and a successful bursary interview.

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