01. Who is this course for?
This course is for learners who have completed the 'Introduction to Pottery' course and/or have some prior experience with clay and want to refine and explore new techniques.
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02. What will I learn?
During the course you will be encouraged to experiment further with the initial pottery techniques (pinch pottery, coil/slab building and using moulds), maybe work bigger or explore sculptural pottery using a different type of clay. You will also gain deeper knowledge of surface pattern and colour using glazes and slips. Researching ideas, planning and creating templates outside of class time will further enhance your practice and allow for more making during the lessons.
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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 using an Individual Learning Plan (ILP). The ILP sets out both your personal learning aims and the overall learning objectives of your course and allows you, and your tutor, to evaluate your progress and set learning goals.
Please avoid taking holidays during courses. Missed lessons can affect funding for adult learning courses.
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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.
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05. What skills or experience do I need?
Learners need to have completed either a beginner pottery course or have equivalent experience. This course is not suitable for complete beginners.
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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 learning targets set in class, as well as your own personal development targets. Targets are reviewed at the middle and end of the course. Informal discussions and critiques with the tutor and learners will take place throughout the course, both individually and in groups.
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07. What could I do after this course?
Upon completing this course, you may wish to progress to our Pottery Workshop - Independent Learners course or attend other independent pottery workshops.
We have a range of courses to support your wellbeing, why not try something else from the Learning for Wellbeing curriculum. There is a wide range of art, craft, sewing, cookery, dance and creative arts courses for you to continue developing your skills while improving your wellbeing. Courses are available to search on the GoLearn website.
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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.
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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 (£28,733.50 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 £26,800 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.
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10. How do I choose the right course for me?
If you are unsure of your next steps, please contact us and one of our team will advise you about our courses or signpost you to other providers if necessary. Please call FREEphone 0800 988 0308 or email adult.learning@leics.gov.uk
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