Ceramics: Pottery, Beginners basic introduction

Checking course availability...

When & Where

28 April 2025 - 9 June 2025 ( 25 hours, 5 weeks )
Daytime, Monday
View course timetable
Waterloo Centre

Quick Facts

Availability Yes
Tutor Megan Rowden
Course Code W24CRSB11C
Suitable For 19 year olds and up are permitted on this course

What you will learn

This course at Morley College Waterloo Centre will allow you to get a feel of what it is like to work with clay and glaze and develop the skills to make ceramic forms. You will look at different types of clay and learn how to shape and mould it using a range of handbuilding techniques. You will have time to experiment with methods for decorating the clay surface through coloured slip and completing forms with a fundamental introduction to glazing. Students work alongside each other in a mutually supportive environment in which you will learn both from your tutor and each other. Students are asked to bring their own apron or coveralls to wear in the studio. Please bring and use you own tools - we also have basic tool packs to purchase.

Learning Outcomes

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

Recognise the basic process and timeline of making ceramic objects
Make a range of ceramic forms using clays and glazes
See the potential of how clay can be manipulated using different techniques
Demonstrate awareness of Health and Safety issues in ceramics through safe studio practice, with consideration towards others

Cost

Full fee

£300

Concession fee

£225

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

Class format and activities

You will practice and develop skills in some of the basic, hand-building construction methods and techniques. Each session your tutor will demonstrate new techniques and give guidance on project work, as well as encouraging you to develop your own ideas. You will also be introduced to historical and contemporary approaches. We will have group and individual discussions and a wide range of resources are provided. In order to ensure that you make the best possible progress on your course, you will have regular and detailed feedback from your tutor, in a constructive and supportive environment in order to meet both course and personal learning goals, as discussed with your tutor at the start of the course.

Entry requirements

This class is open to complete beginners

What you need to know before you enrol

There is some physical activity in ceramics, for example wedging or rolling out clay, which requires a moderate level of physical fitness - if you have any concerns (back problems, for example) please talk to your tutor who will be happy to give guidance, or assistance if required. The ceramics studio is on the 3rd floor and there is lift access.

What you need

A notebook and pen are useful. You will also need an apron or old shirt. Your tutor will advise you about which tools to purchase. There is a charge for clay, which includes the bisque and glaze firing.

What you can do next

Morley College offers a wide range of courses at all levels of ability, including a certified HND Ceramics course. Students can also look to progress onto other part or full time Ceramics or 3D courses such as BETC, BA degree or MA postgraduate courses Your tutor is also happy to advise you in setting up your own studio. After several years of study many students progress to setting up their own ceramic practice and exhibiting in open studio weekends, local and national craft fairs.

Checking course availability...