Ceramics for beginners: build essential pottery skills

About this course

Participants develop core pottery skills through structured projects and self-directed work, using both hand-building and wheel-throwing to make functional, decorative or sculptural forms. They test textures, slips, underglazes and oxides on samples before applying surface decoration and traditional glazing methods. Teaching combines presentations, demonstrations, discussion, group critique and one-to-one feedback. The course also introduces contemporary ceramics, global traditions, professional practice and the stages of clay firing, while learners work at their own pace and receive verbal and written guidance.

What you'll learn

• Create simple forms using traditional hand-building techniques
• Throw basic vessels on the pottery wheel
• Apply surface decoration using slips, underglazes and oxides
• Use traditional glazing methods
• Explain the main stages of clay firing and the effect of different temperatures
• Follow safe and tidy studio practices in a ceramics workshop

Is this course right for you?

The course is suitable for complete beginners as well as learners with previous ceramics experience. Beginners work through structured projects, while those with prior learning can develop independent work. Sessions combine individual practical activity with demonstrations, one-to-one guidance and group discussion and critique.

• Learners work at their own pace with verbal and written feedback
• The course includes shared discussion and critique of learners’ work
• There is no formal homework, although independent projects and research may be discussed

Before you go

• Wear suitable clothing and bring basic tools; tools can be purchased if needed.
• Only work made at the College can be fired.
• Commercial glazes require tutor approval and testing.
• Learners are expected to maintain a clean, safe workspace and follow studio health and safety procedures.