Art School: Potter's Wheel
This course is suitable for all abilities and anyone with a genuine desire to learn the essential skills and techniques required to provide a basic introduction to ceramics (pottery) as well as progressing skills and interests to a higher level.
Ceramics (pottery) is an exciting medium that is at the forefront of the divide between art and craft, and this course is no exception. Though the course is project-based, the projects themselves are open to interpretation, so the work students produce could be functional, sculptural, decorative or site-specific; anything in fact, that can be made in clay.
Students will be encouraged to experiment with techniques and processes, and to become familiar with the work of both ancient and contemporary makers. Help with expanding your creativity, developing design, and professional advice is also available if required.
Your tutor will guide you through the processes and be on hand at all times to answer questions and help you through the technical and aesthetic aspects of working with clay. Students will be given inductions into the basic techniques, while more advanced techniques will be offered to those who already have these skills.
Dates & course durations
16th September 2026, Wednesday evenings, 6.00pm-8.30pm.
6th January 2027, Wednesday evenings, 6.00pm-8.30pm.
7th April 2027, Wednesday evenings, 6.00pm-8.30pm.
10 week courses.
Entry requirements
There are no formal entry requirements for this course, although enthusiasm and commitment are essential. Some experience of working creatively and being practical and ready to be experimental will be a bonus. This course provides space, materials and directed learning with critical feedback, along with professional development advice.
Course units
This 10-week foundation course focuses on the fundamentals of throwing on the pottery wheel.
You’ll learn how to create simple, essential forms such as bowls, mugs, and cylinders—core shapes that form the skills to create a wide range of ceramic pieces.
Designed for beginners, the course emphasizes strong technique and understanding of process.
Each 2.5-hour session includes in-depth demonstrations and plenty of hands-on practice, with one-to-one guidance available every session to support your individual progress.
This course provides a solid technical foundation and is an ideal starting point for continuing on to further ceramics courses.
Assessments
There is no formal completion qualification and students will be able to work at their own pace. The course provides space, equipment and directed for students to produce sophisticated final pieces or just experimental outcomes.
Course fees
£325
Contact our Admissions team if you have any course fee-related questions: info@yorkcollege.ac.uk
Study methods
Students will learn in a friendly and professional workshop environment with all appropriate health and safety provision.
Facilities
As well as specialist creative and art facilities, students have access to a fantastic range of College-wide facilities such as the Learning & Research Centre, study hubs, computer areas with accompanying multi-function printers and helpdesk advice.
Additional costs
All materials are provided for you to complete the course. However, some courses may require additional study from home, you may need access to a PC/laptop and suitable Wi-Fi to access teaching and learning. You will be made aware of any additional study time at the time of enrolment.
Course progression
Completion of this course will enable students to progress on to various other Art & Design courses available at York College.
Career progression
You will be equipped with the skills and knowledge in pottery to help you progress and develop in a number of job opportunities to suit your personal needs and interests or pursue further simply for pleasure.
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