Ceramics

What will the course Cover?

You will explore a range of ceramic techniques and processes as you develop your skills. You will refine your hand-building techniques to create more controlled and complex forms, while also gaining experience and practice in wheel-throwing. You will experiment with a variety of surface decoration methods, including slips, oxides and underglazes, and develop your understanding of glaze application through basic testing and layering techniques. You will also learn about firing processes, kiln operation and safe working practices. As part of your learning, you will research both historical and contemporary ceramic artists and styles to inform your work. You will plan and produce individual ceramic outcomes based on your own creative ideas, while recording your design process, reflecting on your progress and presenting your finished work.

Who is this course for?

This course is suitable for learners who have completed the Level 1 Award in Creative Crafts, specialising in Ceramics or who have equivalent practical experience. It is ideal for those wishing to develop their ceramics technical skills further, work more independently and gain confidence in exploring and processing their own ideas.

What should I be able to do by the end of the course?

By completing this course, you will develop improved control and confidence in a range of ceramic techniques. You will be able to apply different surface decoration and glazing methods effectively. You will be able to plan, develop, and complete ceramic work to meet a brief or your own creative intentions. You will also learn how to follow safe working practices, including the correct use of kilns. In addition, you will research and use sources of inspiration to inform your work and reflect on your progress to identify strengths and areas for further improvement.

How is the course organised?

Teaching includes demonstrations, practical studio sessions, presentations, guided research, group critiques and formal feedback. You will take part in structured tutorials and idea development tasks aligned with Level 2 learning outcomes. Google Classroom is used to provide learning materials, presentations and handouts, and to support your research and documentation.

What extra study or practice is expected outside of the class?

You will be expected to carry out independent research, develop design ideas and maintain project records between sessions. You will also be encouraged to reflect on you learning. Additional tasks may be set to help you refine skills or progress your project. Visits to museums, exhibitions are strongly encouraged.

How will my progress be assessed?

Assessment is continuous and includes individual tutorials and group critiques as well as targeted tasks linked to Level 2 units. Formal assessments will occur for the course units, with both oral and written feedback. You will use documentation such as sketchbooks, written reflections and photographic evidence. You will be expected to record your work and progress in both digital and non-digital formats, upload online and produce a digital portfolio for assessment. The qualification is internally assessed and externally quality assured through a portfolio of evidence, with no formal exams.

What can I expect to go on to after this course?

This course also provides a strong foundation for progressing to a Level 3 qualification in a creative subject. You will develop practical craft techniques alongside transferable creative skills relevant to careers in crafts, handmade product businesses, community arts, retail, and freelance creative work. Learners will also build confidence, creativity and a portfolio of work to support further education, training, or employment opportunities within the creative industries.

Are there any other costs and what do I need to bring?

Core workshop materials including clay, glaze and kiln firing are provided. You will need to bring a sketchbook or visual notebook, a pen/pencil and an apron or old shirt (ceramics can be messy!) Any additional or specialist materials beyond what is supplied in the workshop may need to be purchased by you.

What support is available?

Help with literacy, numeracy or digital skills is available through the functional skills programme and the ESOL programme offers help for speakers of other languages. Details of all available support can be found on our website (hfals.co.uk), in the Guide, the Student Handbook or from teaching and reception staff.

Tutor - Manos (Emmanouil) Kalamenios

Manos Kalamenios is an award-winning ceramic artist and educator with over 20 years of experience working with clay and glass. Trained at the Royal College of Art, his work has been exhibited in museums and galleries across the UK, Europe and Asia — from the British Ceramics Biennial and Tate Modern to the Benaki Museum in Athens and the Korean Craft & Design Foundation in Seoul. As a passionate and highly experienced teacher, Manos is known for his thoughtful, hands-on approach. He brings deep technical skill together with a love for experimentation, encouraging learners to discover their own visual language while mastering the craft of ceramics. His teaching style supports beginners and experienced makers alike, offering a welcoming space where creativity and confidence can grow.