‍ Improvers & Intermediate

‍ Progressing Skills

Each of the In Focus workshops explores a skill through rigorous repetition. The teaching is rooted in repetition and instructive feedback. The participant leaves with a stronger skill set and one fired pot to remember the experience. Participants are encouraged to bring a notebook and pen to take notes.

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Overview
3 days of focused throwing. Repetition of centering, pulling and forming pots on the wheel. The focus of this course is on the enjoyment of throwing instead of making finished pots. It is freeing to make with intention but without the pressure of finished pots for firing. Pure practice can elevate participants’ skills dramatically through consistency and encouraging muscle memory. The course will have a diagnostic aspect with the tutor observing approach and ensuring efficient technique is in place through demonstrations and discussion.

‍This is 3 Day practice-based throwing course is aimed at anyone from beginners to advanced throwers who would like to further develop their skills. There will be unlimited clay available, so participants can let loose and practice as much as they wish.

‍Utility is not a limitation but a rich source of form. ‍ ‍

Bernard Leach, A Potter’s Book. 1940

This course is taught to small groups of 5 in one of the new purpose-built Learning & Production Studios at the Leach Pottery.

‍Structure

‍Here is a plan of the class (subject to some tweaks by the tutor):

Day 1: Participants will start learning about clay preparation: wedging clay ready for the wheel. Throwing cylinders will be a key focus as participants try to throw taller cylinders with the same amount of clay as the day progresses. Practice throwing more efficiently. Limit of 3 pulls.

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Day 2: Participants will start with cylinders to refresh and then move up to throwing some with increasing amounts of clay, throwing off the hump, rice bowls etc.

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Day 3: Handle pulling and repetitive practice. “Clay Olympics” throwing games after lunch through a series of throwing challenges.

‍ The course covers:
- Overview of clay preparation and proficient centring

- Wedging clay

‍ ‍- Throwing cylinders

‍ ‍- Pulling up efficiently (3 pulls)

‍ ‍- Throwing to specific measurements

‍ ‍- Throwing off the hump

‍ ‍- Pulling handles

‍ ‍- Altering forms

‍ ‍- Play

‍ ‍- Confidence with larger quantities of clay

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Firing

These throwing courses are written to help participants build strong, repeatable skills through hands-on practice and expert guidance from the tutor. We don’t take a firing-focused approach. This emphasis on making—without the pressure or attachment that often comes with firing—encourages a more focused, process-led experience. Nothing will be taken or fired by participants, all clay will be reclaimed.

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Ability & Skill Level

‍This throwing course is suitable for anyone from a complete beginner to an advanced participant. As sessions are taught in small groups, the tutor is able to provide tailored support to each participant, regardless of their skill level. Abilities are self-identified, so there may be a range of experience within the group—but everyone is supported at their own pace.

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When: Monday 28 September – Wednesday 30 September
Where: The Leach Pottery Learning & Production Studios
Places: 5 
Price: £320
Duration: 3 days. Core teaching hours: 10am – 4pm and 10am – 3.30pm on the last day.
Please arrive at 9.30am on the first day of your course for the welcome session.

‍‍Equipment & materials: clay and a basic tool kit is provided. We focus on building core skills and working directly with the clay to get the most from a core selection of tools. Please bring additional tools if you wish to use them along with an apron and hand towel.  
You will leave with: new skills and enthusiasm for your pottery practice moving forward 
Level: Any from beginner to advanced  (See here for explanation of skill level criteria)

We are delighted to offer one 10% discount in our Shop during your course.

‍ Any questions? Please visit out FAQ — The Leach Pottery

‍ Please be aware, only assistance dogs are allowed in the Learning spaces.  

‍ Terms and conditions

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