01. Who is this course for?
This is a beginner’s course, designed to be a fun introduction to pottery, teaching learners how to create pieces using ceramic techniques such as pinch, slab and coil pottery. The course is structured to include demonstrations of all the pieces, but learners can work at their own pace and will have the freedom to decide which and how many pieces they choose to create.
|
02. What will I learn?
You will learn basic pottery techniques such as pinch pottery, coiling and slab building. You will have the opportunity to use ceramic glazes to add colour to your pieces. The course is held in a purpose built, fully equipped Pottery studio and is taught by an experienced tutor and practising ceramicist. There is an emphasis on self-initiated work rather than formal structured set projects. Come and relax, make and be inspired with a very experienced tutor and like-minded people.
|
03. How will I learn?
This course combines tutor-led activities with independent learner projects. Learners will be supported through class demonstrations and 1:1 assistance to develop their skills and create their own pieces of pottery. Learners will receive regular verbal and written feedback on their progress.
Please avoid taking holidays during the course. Missed lessons can affect funding for adult learning courses.
|
04. What will I need to bring?
It is advisable to wear an old shirt or apron: please do not wear your best clothes. The course fee includes a materials fee per person per course for resources (clay, glaze, firing etc.) You may wish to purchase some basic tools after a few weeks, but this is not essential.
|
05. What skills or experience do I need?
No formal qualifications or specific skills/aptitudes are required. No prior knowledge of the subject required.
|
06. How will I be assessed?
The Learning for Wellbeing curriculum uses formative and summative assessment methods to evaluate learner progress. You will work towards completing a set of class learning targets, as well as your own personal development targets. Targets are reviewed at the middle and end of the course. Informal discussions with the tutor will take place throughout the course, both individually and in groups. Your progress will also be documented through photographic evidence.
|
07. What could I do after this course?
Upon completing this course, you may wish to progress to ‘Pottery Workshop – Mixed Level’
The Adult Learning Service also offers courses in: Digital Skills; Languages; British Sign Language; ESOL; Maths and English; Skills for Jobs; Apprenticeships and Traineeships; Family Learning; Programmes for Adults with Learning Difficulties and/or Disabilities
|
08. How will I be supported in my learning?
We aim to support all learners to succeed. Our tutors will work with all learners to meet individual needs by using a range of resources and teaching methods.
When you enrol on your course you will be asked if you have any additional learning needs or disabilities which may affect your learning. This might include physical disabilities, neurodivergent needs (e.g., Autistic Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, dyslexia, or dyspraxia, etc.), visual and auditory impairments, or a medical condition which might affect your learning. Your tutor will contact you prior to joining the course to discuss what support can be put in place.
For some learners, this may mean organising extra time in exams or arranging for a Learning Support Assistant to support your learning in class. We also offer a wide range of assistive technology such as reader pens, screen readers, large print keyboards and screens, alongside in-class resources such as coloured overlays, large-print resources and more.
|
09. Is help available with course fees?
Many of our courses are FREE to all learners. For fee-paying courses, if you are in receipt of state benefits or have a low income (£26,211.90 before deductions) you could be entitled to enrol on your course for FREE, or at a 70% Reduced Fee cost. If your course is accredited (working towards a formal qualification) your course may be FREE if you earn under £25,000 before deductions. Some exclusions apply, eligibility for fee reduction is subject to change, and you may be required to provide evidence of earnings.
If the amount you must pay for your course is over £50, we offer instalment plans which break down the cost of learning into a set number of easy monthly payments.
If you need help with the wider costs of study, such as childcare, resources, travel, and transport costs, you may be eligible to have these costs reimbursed through our Discretionary Learner Support Fund. Visit us online for more details, and to download the online application form.
|
10. How do I choose the right course for me?
If you are unsure about which course may be right for you, our team of Learning and Work Advisers are on hand to offer FREE and impartial information, advice and guidance on learning and work options available to you.
To book your free, confidential, and impartial appointment, please call FREEphone 0800 988 0308 or email LALS.LWA@leics.gov.uk.
|