Adult courses 2026

Skill Levels

Ability & Skill Level

As workshops are taught in small groups, the tutor is able to provide support to each participant, regardless of their skill level. Abilities are self-identified by the participant on booking, so there may be a range of experience within the group—but everyone is supported at their own pace. Should learning in a mixed ability environment not suit you, this year we are piloting some skill specific Form & Function (both 3 and 5 day) courses. The course has the same content but is only for participants of a particular experience level.

Below is an outline to guide participants identify if they are a beginner, improver or intermediate thrower to help inform their selection of courses. You will be asked to give details of your skill and experience level on booking a place on a course.

 

Beginner

You are new to the wheel or you’ve had some experience and are looking to build consistency.

You may:

  • Never have used a potter’s wheel before

  • Need guidance with centering clay, wedging, basic techniques, and posture

  • Be unfamiliar with the processes of throwing, trimming, or pulling handles

  • Want to build foundational skills through simple forms and repetition

Or:
You may:

  • Have attended a beginner’s class or short course

  • Be able to center clay and throw basic forms (like cylinders or bowls), but not consistently

  • Want to improve control, shape, and technique

  • Be starting to understand trimming and finishing but need guidance

  • Be exploring how to repeat forms

Improver

You have a solid grasp of throwing basics and want to refine or expand your skills.

You are:

  • Comfortable centering up to 2kg of clay and throwing a range of basic forms with consistency

  • Working on improving form, scale and efficiency

  • Exploring sets, lidded forms, or altered shapes

  • Confident trimming and finishing your work independently

Intermediate & Advanced

You are a confident thrower with consistent technique, looking to refine your work and take on more complex challenges.

You may:

  • Comfortable centering up to 3 kg of clay

  • Throw a range of forms with control and intention (cylinders, bowls, plates, etc.)

  • Consistently center clay and manage wall thickness and form refinement

  • Be exploring more advanced forms such as lidded jars, spouts, teapots, or sets

  • Be comfortable trimming, finishing, and assembling components

  • Be interested in improving speed, precision, and developing a personal style or body of work

  • Possibly working independently outside of classes or considering exhibiting and selling your work

 

The Principles of Studio Pottery

A programme of creative, practical workshops and courses for beginners to advanced potters who wish to explore the skills, technique and ethos of studio pottery.

We look forward to releasing more specialist courses across the year.

Making Pottery should not be like climbing a mountain, it should be more like walking down the hill in a pleasant breeze.

Shoji Hamada, 1894-1978