Introduction to Wheelwork for Young People (YP98 Summer)

Enjoy playing with clay and love the idea of throwing pots? Then this course is for you!

What will you learn on this course?

This course provides an exciting introduction to the world of ceramics and the art of wheelwork. You will be shown how to prepare clay and how to throw a pot, starting with an array of forms including cylinders, cups and bowls. The course is delivered through a mix of tutor demonstrations and activities designs to allow you to explore clay and work with a potter’s wheel.

You will also have the chance to explore surface decoration and experiment with different slips to achieve a variety of outcomes. The tutor will explain how to decorate your pot and how to paint with coloured slips to personalise your pieces. You will be encouraged to review and refine your work to produce finished ceramic pieces that are unique to your own design.

Participants will have a great sense of achievement and will feel proud of what they have accomplished, having learnt how to throw pots to a high standard.

MAC’s pottery studios are fully furnished with specialist equipment and a number of kilns, so all work will be professionally fired and ready for collection at the end of term.

Please note, by the nature of ceramics there is always a risk of technical failure, cracks or explosions for which we cannot be held responsible.

Who is this course for?

This course is suitable for young people aged 12 to 17 years. It is open to students of all levels and no prior experience is required as full instruction is given. We provide a learning support worker and all our staff are DBS checked. Parents are not expected to accompany children on the course.

The course is accessible for people of all abilities. You do need dexterity in your hands to work with clay. The room is wheelchair accessible and MAC does have accessible potter’s wheels. A parent or carer may attend to assist the child if required; carers must book a complimentary ticket if attending to provide support. Please contact us to discuss your specific access needs.

Age ranges are set carefully to consider key age developments, materials being used and course stimulus. It is very important that age ranges are not too large or across key stages and therefore need to be adhered to.

Do you need to bring anything?

Short sleeves, old trousers, and an apron are recommended as working with clay can get messy, but it should wash off easily.

Are there any additional costs?

There are no additional costs. The course price includes all materials and firing of your work. Please note that there will be a clay and firing charge for any oversized work, please discuss with the tutor.

Who teaches this course?

Serge Sanghera