Ceramics, Raku: An Introduction to Making, Glazing, Firing

When & Where

1 March 2025 - 5 April 2025 ( 30 hours, 6 weeks )
Daytime, Saturday
View course timetable
Waterloo Centre

Quick Facts

Availability Yes
Tutor Alex Huber
Course Code W24CRSA06A
Suitable For 19 year olds and up are permitted on this course

What you will learn

Raku involves rapid firing and cooling in specific outdoor kilns. This course, at Morley Waterloo Centre, provides a full opportunity during the sessions to make, bisque fire, and apply glaze. On the last Saturday, you spend the day outdoors firing. It is suitable for students who have some experience of the ceramic process or are new to Raku. Raku does not create functional objects. One kiln load per student, due to the firing schedule to accommodate 12 student’s works. This usually amounts to 5 - 6 medium-sized objects. This course consists of 4 making sessions and 1 glazing session, plus 1 firing day. There will be a charge for clay work to be glazed and fired. Please bring and use your own tools or we have basic tool packs to purchase. Students will be encouraged to take part in the firing process. Students work alongside each other in a mutually supportive environment in which you will learn both from your tutor and each other

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

Develop your Raku making, glazing and firing skills.
Make appropriate work with relevant clays and specialist glazes to create Raku objects
Recognize and practice a variety of surfaces that can be achieved in Raku
How to work with others as a team to create work using this outdoor kiln firing technique
Safe working practice with regard to health and safety and issues regarding outdoor firing

Cost

Full fee

£515

Concession fee

£385

Click here for information on Fees, Funding and Concessions (including financial support)

Class format and activities

You will take part in a power point explanation of the process. You will be making a range of objects during the practical sessions. The tutor will give you feedback and practical help with different making techniques to realize your ideas. You will be glazing your work with Raku glazes and different decoration and application techniques. You will take part in a Health & Safety induction. You will help to set up the firing site and actively take part in the firing process and post reduction firing treatment of your work, following Health & Safety guidelines

Entry requirements

A fundamental skill in making and processing ceramics is desired.

What you need to know before you enrol

Some tasks on the firing day can be strenuous, however there are less physical tasks that can be assigned if required. Please advise your tutor if you are pregnant or have a physical disability so they can assist and give guidance where necessary

What you need

For the making and glazing classes: a sketchbook, Apron. For the firing day: a respirator (can be purchased for £5 from your tutor), a long-sleeved top or shirt, long trousers and closed leather shoes or boots. Combustible materials such as sawdust (discussed in class). There is a material charge by kilo for work made in class. This includes all firings and glazes.

What you can do next

You would gain the appropriate knowledge to fire your own Raku kiln. Morley College offers a wide range of courses at all levels of ability. We recommend you attend at least 2 terms on the beginner course before moving on to various mixed-level courses. After completing this course, you could look to join Ceramics, Raku: Making, Glazing, Firing Intermediate & Advanced. Students can also look to progress onto certificated part time HNC/HND in Ceramics Design at Morley or full time Ceramics or 3D courses such as BETC, BA degree or MA postgraduate courses. Your tutor is also happy to advise on setting up your own studio. Many students go on after several years' experience to setting up their own ceramic practice and exhibiting in open studio / house weekends and local and national craft fairs and galleries.