Pottery: Throwing for beginners Level 2B

Course summary
Code: R261285A
Location: Rochester Adult Education Centre
Cost: £266.25 to £355.00
Starting: Tuesday 05 January 2027
Duration: 10 sessions over 10 week(s)
Time: 10:00
By continuing you confirm that you are 19 or over on 31 August and have agreed to the the Terms and conditions
Description
This is a Pottery Specialism course level 2B, upon completing this course, learners can progress onto Level 2C but cannot redo this course at the same level or lower level. Learners can book onto any other Art specialism or Creative & Culture courses from 1A upwards.
This beginner-friendly course is designed for those completely new to throwing as well as those looking to refresh their skills, focusing on building confidence and understanding of fundamental techniques. Participants will start with cylinder shapes, learning centring, opening, and pulling techniques, and gradually progress to more complex forms while being encouraged to explore creativity through various throwing techniques, including trimming and turning. By the end of the course, you can expect to enhance your throwing skills and work on personal projects.
Throughout the course, learners will collaborate with the tutor to establish personalized and context-specific learning objectives that enhance their skills and knowledge, addressing relevant individual goals over time. Additionally, it is imperative for learners to consistently adhere to established health and safety protocols to ensure a safe learning environment.
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. Throw at least 2 different shapes unaided
2. Demonstrate at least 2 finishing techniques unaided
3. Demonstrate an understanding of clay recycling practices following Medway council climate change policies.
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 Pottery Specialism course level 2B, upon completing this course, learners can progress onto Level 2C but cannot redo this course at the same level or lower level. Learners can book onto any other Art specialism or Creative & Culture courses from 1A upwards.
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.
Your tutor will speak to you about tools in the first class and advise what you will need.
• 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?
This is a Pottery Specialism course level 2B, upon completing this course, learners can progress onto Level 2C but cannot redo this course at the same level or lower level. Learners can book onto any other Art specialism or Creative & Culture courses from 1A upwards.
Your tutor can talk to you about another subject related course available. Your progression course is: R261286A Pottery: Throwing For Beginners L2C
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, café 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
