City Lit ceramics

What is the course about?

This practical and structured ceramics course gives an excellent opportunity for students to work with a broad variety of building and design techniques. You will develop an understanding of how to make clay pieces derived from 2D research. You will also be taught and encouraged to experiment with decoration and glazes, and learn to work with good workshop and health and safety practice.

2026-27 Term Dates:

Term 1 - 14/9/26 - 7/12/26 (Half Term break week 26/10/26)

Term 2 - 4/1/27 - 22/3/27 (Half Term break week 15/02/27)

Term 3 - 12/4/27 - 19/7/27 (Bank Holiday 3/5/27 & Half Term break week 31/5/27)

Please note, applications will be reviewed in March 2026.

What will we cover?

This course is divided into 4 main projects - throwing on the wheel, hand-building (slab building and coiling), design and sampling. Decoration and glazing is brought into each project. 3 dimensional clay ideas will be developed from 2D drawings, and decorated clay surfaces are explored through sampling. Sampling will be divided into two areas.

1. Clay sampling will enable you to experiment with ceramic and non ceramic materials, colours, decoration and glazing techniques.

2. Work on paper will give you an opportunity to develop surface patterns and 3D ideas, through surface manipulations using printed, drawn and collaged techniques. These can be then be interpreted into clay.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

- Demonstrate drawing skills using a variety of techniques
- Research, design and make ceramic forms, confidently and creatively
- Work to a specific brief
- Experience working with a broad range of decorating materials and techniques, including glazing
- Have knowledge and experience of working with different ceramic processes, using hand-built and thrown techniques
- Have knowledge of the work of contemporary ceramicist.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

The course is open to beginners in Ceramics or those with some experience who require a structured course. Priority will be given to students that haven't taken this course before.

You will need to be able to follow verbal and written instructions in English, as well as communicate information clearly in writing. You will also need a basic mathematical understanding of adding and subtracting.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

You will be taught through group and individual tuition, as well as ongoing demonstrations. Project introduction is introduced in advance with research and design guidance. Regular feedback is given, with an encouragement to develop personal ideas. Ongoing help is given through a variety of visual references, handouts, slide presentations and exhibition information.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Most ceramic materials are covered by the course fee.There is a charge of £24.00 per bag/ £12.00 per half bag for Porcelain. Tools are available within the department for use but you may want to purchase your own. Ensure that you bring with you a suitable pair of closed shoes, e.g. not open toed sandals. You will be expected to show good workshop practice and follow health and safety guidelines.

Important Safety Notice - Pacemakers:

The motor on the potter’s wheels may pose a serious risk to individuals with pacemakers and/or internal defibrillators . For your safety, if you have a pacemaker and/or an internal defibrillator you cannot work in the Ceramics studio if the wheels are in use. Please contact the Ceramics Department before enrolling by emailing visualarts@citylit.ac.uk to discuss this further

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Within City Lit you could progress onto VR711 Intermediate Ceramic or VR712 Diploma Course in Ceramics - structured courses that can lead to higher education or independent studio practice.