We're experiencing delays processing apprenticeship applications due to a technical issue with the Government’s “Find an Apprenticeship” service. Thank you for your patience. For updates on your application, please call us on 01235 216 216.
Search our website for news, courses, and general information
Course code: P02585
Subject area: Art & Design
Study level: Part Time
Course level: U
Course time:
13:30 - 16:30
Days of week:
Tuesday
Course date:
28th Apr 2026 - 23rd Jun 2026
Course location:
Abingdon Campus"Facilities at Abingdon Campus:- Vending machines and Costa Coffee shop (open until 7pm on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday term time only).- Watercoolers available, making it easy to refill your water bottle.- Free parking. Please note due to half term there will be no session on 05/05/2026 and 26/05/2026."
The course will cover the following key areas:
Introduction to Clay and Studio Practice
-Understanding different types of clay and their properties
- Health and safety in the ceramics studio
- Preparing clay for use (wedging and kneading)
- Hand-Building Techniques
- Pinch pots, coil building, and slab construction
-Joining techniques and structural integrity
-Creating functional and decorative forms
Wheel Throwing
-Centring clay on the wheel
-Throwing basic forms such as cylinders and bowls
-Trimming and refining wheel-thrown pieces
Surface Decoration and Texture
-Using tools, stamps, and found objects to create texture
-Sgraffito, slip trailing, and other decorative techniques
-Applying underglazes and oxides
Glazing and Finishing
-Understanding glaze types and application methods
-Preparing work for bisque and glaze firings
Finishing and evaluating completed pieces
-Creative Development and Individual Projects
-Encouraging personal style and expression
-Planning and developing independent pieces
-Constructive feedback and reflection
Throughout the course, learners will be encouraged to explore their own creative interests while building
All learners are allocated with a 4kg (total fired weight) allowance of clay per course, this is roughly equivalent to 8 very large mugs. Please note this personal allowance is not transferrable between learners or courses.
Once this weight is exceeded, learners will have the opportunity to have more work fired at a cost of of £5 per 500g.
As part of your course we may organise trips to assist you with your learning. Trips are optional, and you will not be penalised if you choose not to participate.
There are bursaries available to help you with other course costs. Call 01235 216 212 for more information.
The rules on fee reduction are complicated and we would encourage you to talk to our Admissions staff on 01235 216 400 to discuss your options. You can find more information on our Fees and Bursaries page - search "Fees and Bursaries" at the top of the page.
£260.40
£145.20
Methods are via: - demonstrations - pottery quiz - on-going 1:1 discussions with tutor - friendly peer encouragement Observation/Demonstration- self-assessment- question & answer/reading- practical exercises- 1:1 tutor support
As this is a non-accredited course, there is no formal qualification. To track your progress and achievement you will be required to complete a short document.
