Where will this course lead?

By the end of the course, you will have built a strong foundation in ceramic processes, gained experience in multiple making techniques, and produced a collection of finished ceramic pieces that reflect your own developing style and ideas

What will I study?

You will be introduced to essential pottery techniques including coiling, slab building, press moulding, and a brief introduction to wheel throwing. Most sessions include tutor-led demonstrations, showing how these methods can be used to create amazing ceramic pieces. The demonstrations are designed to break each process down clearly, allowing you to understand not only how each technique works but also why certain methods are used in different types of ceramic work.

As the course progresses, you will also explore how to refine and finish your pieces through joining, shaping, and surface decoration. Attention is given to glazing techniques, where you will learn how different glaze applications can produce a wide variety of colours, textures, and surface effects. This helps learners understand the transformation that takes place from raw clay to finished ceramic work.

How will this course be delivered?

The tutor will provide additional demonstrations for smaller groups or one-to-one support when specific techniques need further explanation. This means learners can receive personalised help, whether mastering wheel control, improving hand-building accuracy, or experimenting with advanced decorative effects.

For those with prior ceramics experience, the course also offers the opportunity to become more self-directed - refining personal techniques, testing new forms, and exploring more ambitious projects with professional feedback available throughout.

A key strength of the course is its flexibility: you will be encouraged to work at your own pace and gradually develop individual projects based on your own ideas and interests. Beginners can follow structured exercises to build confidence, while more experienced learners are supported in pursuing independent creative work with tutor guidance available when needed.

What qualifications will I get?

This is a non accredited leisure course

How do I get a place on the course?

Please contact our student services department by dialling 0121 678 7000 - option 1, followed by option 2 then option 3.  If you are unable to get through, please send an e-mail to Community@solihull.ac.uk.

What are the entry requirements?

No specific entry requirements.

Students must be aged 19+. If you have learning difficulty or disability please let us know when you apply.

What else do I need to know?

Classes take place in a fully equipped ceramics studio, giving access to professional tools, workspaces, and kiln firing facilities. All essential equipment is provided, allowing you to focus entirely on developing practical skills and creative confidence. There will be an additional fee of £60 for materials.

To maintain a safe and effective working studio environment, the final 15 minutes of each session will be dedicated to cleaning and tidying individual and shared work areas, tools, and equipment. Working with clay and ceramic materials creates dust and residue that must be managed carefully, so this clean-up period is an important part of studio practice and essential for health and safety. Learners will be expected to take responsibility for cleaning tools, wiping surfaces, and leaving the studio ready for the next group, helping to develop good professional habits alongside practical ceramics skills.

What can I do after this course?

Have a look at our range of arts and crafts courses in the community section or within our creative arts department.