Ceramics

What will the course Cover?

Designed for beginners, this course provides a comprehensive introduction to essential hand-building techniques, including pinching, coiling, press moulding, and tile making. You will also explore various surface decoration methods, such as glazing, slip decoration, and oxide application. As the course progresses, you will have the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of throwing.

Who is this course for?

Ideal for beginners seeking foundational skills in working with clay, as well as those with some basic experience looking to enhance their techniques.

What skills, knowledge or experience do I need to start this course?

Being able to follow projects and to be open minded about design ideas. Ability to record information such as note taking and begin to produce simple diagrams/sketches.

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

Be able to demonstrate hand building skills such as: coiling, pinching, slabbing and press moulding. Explore and range of decorative techniques such as Majolica, slip decoration and oxides enabling you to translate ideas and designs into 3 dimensional forms using at least one of the construction techniques taught. Be able to differentiate between stoneware and earthenware glazes and apply them to create a finished piece of work. Identify personal strengths and weaknesses and areas for development. Demonstrate an understanding of Health & Safety criteria as applied in a pottery studio.

How is the course organised?

Practical sessions, demonstration of techniques, individual practical activity and a group critic at the end of term.

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

To get the most from this course you will need to research information for projects and to keep notes and sketches to support your 3D work.

How will my progress be assessed?

Progress is assessed through discussing the work individually, in groups and recorded on your own Individual Learning Plan and Learning Journal.

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

Continue this course to develop your skills further or move on to a higher-level course. Your tutor will be able to advise you on progression. All learners will have the opportunity to showcase work made in an end of year exhibition.

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

Clay is charged per pound of clay to cover materials and firing costs. It may be useful to bring your own drawing materials and paint brushes.

What support is available?

Help with literacy or numeracy is available through the basic education programme and the ESOL programme offers help for speakers of other languages. Additional support can be provided for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities. Details of all available support can be found on our website (hfals.co.uk), in the Guide and the Student handbook, or from teaching or Reception staff.

Tutor - Zarina Abdullah

Zarina Abdullah brings a diverse background in applied arts, including textiles and carnival arts. As a costume designer for a prominent carnival band, she has toured nationally and internationally, showcasing her work at prestigious venues. A graduate of Central Saint Martins in Ceramic Design, she has dedicated many years to teaching ceramics and serving as a ceramic studio technician. Her expertise lies in glaze technology and surface decoration.