Why Study This Course?
Are you curious about working with clay? This 6-week course is designed for complete beginners or those with limited experience. You’ll learn fundamental hand-building techniques, studio processes, and how to glaze your projects. Develop your creativity and express yourself through clay in a supportive environment. This course will give you the skills and confidence to start your ceramic journey.
This course is perfect for beginners. You will:
Learn essential clay techniques like press moulding, slab building, pinch pots, and coiling.
Discover glazing and decoration methods.
Develop your creativity in a supportive environment.
Gain hands-on experience with demonstrations and printed materials.
Participate in class discussions to enhance your learning.
This course covers:
Studio Induction: Introduction to the ceramic studio and its processes.
Press Moulding: Learn to make a bowl using the press moulding technique.
Slab Building: Create objects inspired by architecture or the home.
Pinch Pots and Coiling: Make small vases using these techniques.
Refining and Decoration: Add decorative textures to your projects.
Glazing: Understand what a glaze is and how to apply it to your objects.
You'll learn through hands-on, practical sessions led by an experienced tutor. They will share their industry knowledge and provide personalised feedback. We will work with you to create a Personal Learning Plan (PLP) to set goals and track your progress.
No prior experience is required. This course is suitable for complete beginners.
Your progress will be assessed through Personal Learning Plans (PLPs) and regular discussions with your tutor. You'll track your practice and development through written notes and tutor feedback. This course can lead to further ceramics courses to develop your skills.
Clay MUST be purchased from the College Shop. The cost of slip, glazes and kiln firings is included in the price of the clay, which learners can purchase as required from the technicians' office (Art Shop, RAS 5). A range of clay types is available, and the tutor will advise which is most suitable for each project.
Learners taking part in glazing activities will require an FFP3 mask, which is also available to purchase from the technicians' office. Glazing takes place throughout the course in accordance with strict health and safety procedures.
Ceramic tools are provided. Finished pieces typically take around two weeks to dry and complete the bisque firing (the first firing), followed by a further one to two weeks after glaze firing before they are ready for collection.
Work exceeding 28cm (H) × 38cm (W) × 28cm (D) or weighing more than 5kg will incur an additional firing charge.
Learners are encouraged to keep a record of their work, either in a sketchbook or digitally, including photographs where appropriate. Records should include details such as the clay used, decorative techniques, glazes applied, firing temperatures and approximate dimensions of each piece.
No food or drink is allowed in the studio; a nearby hub area is available.
Please allow 15 minutes at the end of each class to tidy up.
Please note there is an additional cost of approximately £50 - £100 for materials on this course.
Please note that tutors may occasionally be changed at short notice. While teaching styles may vary, we ensure consistent quality across all of our courses. For this reason, a change of tutor does not qualify for a refund.
