Course intent
This ‘intermediate’ level course is designed to deepen your technical skills, enhance your understanding of materials and processes, and push your creative boundaries. Whether you’re refining your technique or experimenting with new methods, this course will give you the tools to take your pottery to the next level.
What will I learn?
You will learn:
- Material Knowledge: Refine your understanding of the different materials used in pottery. You will dive deeper into the properties and characteristics of various clay bodies, including stoneware, earthenware, and porcelain. You will also learn how to select the best clay for different types of projects and explore how material choices impact your design
- Design Techniques: At this level, you will be encouraged to develop more advanced design concepts. You will plan and execute projects that incorporate both hand-building and wheel-throwing techniques, refining your ability to design with intention. You’ll work on integrating your technical skills with your creative process to create cohesive and polished pieces
- Production Process: Delve into more complex forms, both functional and sculptural. You will practice advanced wheel techniques such as altering thrown pieces, creating intricate shapes, and combining hand-built elements with thrown components. You will focus on scaling up your work, exploring ways to produce multiple pieces or develop a series with consistent quality.
- Craftsmanship: You will also explore more sophisticated decoration methods like carving, inlay, and incorporating mixed media into your designs. Understanding how different decorating processes work together will help you create more cohesive and refined pieces.
- Studio Practice: Understand the importance of a safe working environment and H&S requirements.
Who is this course for? Is there anything I need to know before joining?
Stage 3 - Suitable for learners on completion of level 2 who would like to progress and gain a solid understanding of their subject. The focus will be on mastering more intricate techniques and creating more complex, finished projects.
What do I need to bring to the first class? Will there be any extra costs?
You need to bring:
- A notebook and pen/pencil
- Sensible, closed toe shoes
- An apron or wear old clothes
Additional Costs/Information:
- Materials and Technician Fees: Basic materials and technician costs are included in the course fee.
- Firing Limitations: We are only able to fire pieces that are produced during class time, using materials provided by SAL. Pieces larger than 30cm x 30cm x 40cm cannot be fired in the kiln. Please keep this in mind when planning your projects.
- Studio Time: This is structured to ensure every learner has time to practice on the potter’s wheel. You will plan projects using hand-building techniques as well as throwing.
- Larger Pieces: Learners who choose to work on larger projects or a significant number of pieces may be asked to pay additional materials costs depending on size or quantity.
Attendance:
- Learners can only attend the sessions they are signed up for. Unfortunately, missed classes cannot be made up in another session.
If you have any queries, please email the tutor at adultlearning@surreycc.gov.uk
What can I do when I finish the course?
In discussion with your tutor, you may like to progress onto Pottery & Claywork - Stage 4, Pottery & Claywork Workshops or further Arts & Crafts courses at SAL.
Additional Information
We welcome learners with additional needs and disabilities. When you enrol, please let us know if you would like to discuss your extra support needs with a member of the Supported Learning Team who will then contact you as soon as possible. If you are enrolling within 10 days of the course start date, we may not be able to contact you before your first class.
We value and support equality, diversity and inclusion by promoting fairness and respect at all times.
How to enrol
You can't currently enrol online for this course, so please call 0300 200 1044 to express your interest or to make an enquiry for further information.
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Details
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Day:
Thursday
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Start date:
18 Sep 2025
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Time:
10am to 12:30pm
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Cost: £371
- Location: Guildford centre
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Sessions:
12 sessions
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Tutor:
Ian Round
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Course code: QHDA4056GA
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Places: Waiting list. Call 0300 200 1044