Ceramics for all levels: develop pottery skills through personal projects

About this course

Learners develop ceramic work through hand-building and wheel-throwing, making functional, decorative or sculptural forms. The course covers techniques including pinching, coiling, slab-building, press-moulding, throwing and turning, alongside experimentation with surfaces and finishes. Teaching combines presentations, demonstrations, discussion, peer knowledge-sharing and individual feedback. Beginners follow structured projects, while those with previous experience can develop independent work or respond to optional tutor-led briefs. Learners work at their own pace, review their aims with the tutor and take part in group discussion and critique.

What you'll learn

• Use pinching, coiling, slab-building and press-moulding techniques to make hand-built forms.
• Develop basic throwing and turning skills on the potter’s wheel.
• Apply slips and glazes to explore surface decoration.
• Work with different clay bodies and explain the main stages of kiln firing.
• Follow safe studio practice and evaluate the development of individual ceramic projects.

Is this course right for you?

The course is designed for complete beginners as well as learners with prior ceramics experience. Beginners work through structured projects, while returning or more experienced learners can pursue individual projects with tutor guidance. Sessions combine self-directed work, one-to-one feedback and group discussion and critique.

• Learners work at their own pace with individual guidance.
• The course includes opportunities to discuss and review work with peers.
• There is no formal assessment or expectation to complete work outside class.

Before you go

• Wear suitable clothing and bring basic tools.
• Work must be made at the college to be eligible for firing.
• The agreed firing turnaround is two weeks, although work may sometimes be fired sooner.
• Commercial glazes require tutor approval and testing.
• Learners are expected to follow studio health and safety procedures, including keeping their workspace, tools and equipment clean and safe.