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Medway Adult Education

Pottery For Beginners Level 1A  

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Course summary

Code: R265A  

Location: Rochester Adult Education Centre  

Cost: £207.00 to £276.00 

Starting: Thursday 17 September 2026 

Duration: 11 sessions over 11 week(s)

Time: 18:15 


By continuing you confirm that you are 19 or over on 31 August and have agreed to the the Terms and conditions

 

Course Information Sheet

Description

This is a level 1A course for those who have not attended pottery with us on a levelled course or for complete beginners to the subject. By fostering confidence and creativity, the course combines Fine Art approaches with practical skills in ceramics and decoration. Guided by the tutor, students will develop their abilities through personalised projects and diverse techniques, ensuring an engaging and supportive learning environment for everyone.

If you are looking for a course to improve or maintain your mental health and wellbeing, why not book onto one of our courses from the Managing mental health and well-being offer?

  

WHAT WILL I LEARN ON THIS COURSE?
Learners will: 1. Understand how and why to prepare at least one type of clay. 2. Create work using at least 2 different techniques: hand-building techniques: (e.g. modelling, pinching, coiling, slab building) and throwing on a potter’s wheel. 3. Plan at least one project using a sketchbook to develop individual creative ideas. Whether you would like to learn new creative skills or to investigate the possibility of a new pottery-based career, MAE Community Learning courses can provide you with a stepping stone to progress

IS THIS COURSE SUITABLE FOR ME?
This is a level 1A course. Upon completing this course, learners can progress onto Level 1B pottery and ceramics courses but cannot redo this course at the same level. Learners can book onto any other pottery and ceramics specialisms such as Throwing, from level 1A or any Creative & Culture course from 1A.

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THIS COURSE?
Please be aware that whilst this course is practical in nature some sessions will include theory and professional related training such as H&S, risk assessments, public liability as well as course paperwork and target setting. You will need to prepare the following tools and equipment before the start of the course. Please do not purchase until you are sure the course will run: • An apron/protective clothing • Sturdy footwear (no open toed shoes in the pottery) • It is recommended that you do not wear anything you value highly. You may wish to bring household gloves to use when glazing. • A pen / pencil - a sketchbook will be provided. Learners with previous experience should bring in an example of their own work / or photo of work to help in the initial assessment process. • A basic pottery tool kit (can be purchased online fairly cheaply) • A steel kidney scraper (an old store card cut to shape can make an effective kidney scraper) • A small sponge Tools and equipment cannot be left in the classroom, please take all personal items home. The nearest supplier for specialist tools is The Clay Cellar at Brenchley, https://www.claycellar.co.uk/tools (Please check website for opening times and delivery details.)

WILL THERE BE ADDITIONAL COSTS?
An amount of clay is included within the course fees. Learners will weigh and record weight / price with the aid of the tutor before firing. Once the set amount has been reached, learners will need to weigh, record, pay and show proof or payment before items are fired. The cost of clay includes: Clay ordering, processing, and delivery. Cost of glazes and finishing materials. Cost of firing (electricity and upkeep of kilns) Technician costs As such, the cost per Kg. is greater than sold at wholesale price.

WHAT COULD I GO ON TO DO AFTER THIS COURSE?
Your tutor can talk to you about another subject related course available. Your progression course are: R2615A Pottery For Beginners Level 1B or R26002A Pottery for Beginners L1B Upon completing this course, learners can progress onto Level 1B pottery and ceramics courses but cannot redo this course at the same level. Learners can book onto any other pottery and ceramics specialisms such as Throwing, from level 1A or any Creative & Culture course from 1A. Medway Adult Education works with many partners locally such as MidKent College, Medway School of Arts and the University of Kent; information about their courses can be found in our studios, cafι and on Moodle. Medway has an exciting and wide-range of events, exhibitions and activities to inspire and help you make further progress - please see the community noticeboards in the Rochester Centre and again on Moodle. Your tutor will be able to talk through your individual progression options. If you wish to explore your learning, work or career options, you can speak to a fully trained careers advisor on 0800 100 900. https://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk If you need further advice please telephone 01634 338400.

WHAT IS THE ATTENDANCE POLICY
Multiple sessions- To get the most out of the course: • Try to attend at least 90% of sessions • Let your tutor know if you will miss a class • If you are ill or absent, contact: 01634 338400

HEALTH & SAFETY
Health and Safety Disclaimer By taking part in this course, you understand that pottery involves use of tools, materials and equipment and carries some risk. You agree that: • Pottery activities can involve some risk (tools, materials) • Work at a level that suits your ability • Wear suitable clothing and protect your work area (no open toed shoes in the pottery, hair must be tied back when using the wheels) • Agree to the ground rules and follow safety guidance from your tutor • Medway Adult Education is not responsible for personal injury or damage to personal property. • By attending the course, you confirm that you have read and understood this information.

 

Location

Rochester Adult Education Centre  
Rochester Community Hub  
Eastgate
Rochester  
ME1 1EW  

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