Ceramics on Sunday

About this course

The course introduces several ways of working with clay. Participants practise pinching, coiling and slab building, explore surface decoration and glazing, and learn the basic principles of making forms on a potter’s wheel. Wheel work includes centring clay and forming a cylinder, with scope to move towards more advanced forms as skills develop. Teaching combines group demonstrations with one-to-one feedback and support. Participants are also encouraged to review their work, reflect on their methods and contribute to group discussions.

What you'll learn

• Create ceramic pieces using pinching, coiling and slab-building techniques
• Apply surface decoration and glazes to clay work
• Explain the basic principles of working on a potter’s wheel
• Practise centring clay and forming a cylinder on the wheel

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for beginners as well as learners with some previous experience of working with clay. Participants should be able to follow written and spoken instructions, demonstrations and health and safety guidance, use simple measurements and calculations, and take part in reflection and group discussion.

• Suitable for people new to clay and for those developing existing clay-making skills
• Includes both group demonstrations and individual tutor feedback
• Requires participation in self-review and group discussion
• Pacemakers or internal defibrillators may affect access to the ceramics studio when wheels are in use

Before you go

• Most ceramic materials are included, but clay and porcelain incur additional charges before firing.
• Departmental tools are available for use; bringing or buying personal tools is optional.
• Participants with a pacemaker or internal defibrillator should contact the Ceramics Department before enrolling, as the wheel motors may pose a serious risk.