Pottery

In this throwing course for learners of all abilities, you will develop the skills you need to create a range of vessels and forms on the potter’s wheel. You will also learn a variety of surface decoration techniques both on and off the wheel. You’ll explore how composition and designing sets of vessels can elevate the humble pot into a beautiful three dimensional picture.

This hands-on one-day workshop introduces the fascinating process of creating your own ceramic glazes from raw materials. Suitable for all levels, from complete beginners to more experienced potters, the course offers a practical and accessible entry into the science and creativity behind glaze making.
Participants will learn the fundamentals of glaze composition, including the role of key ingredients such as silica, fluxes, and alumina, and how these elements combine to influence colour, texture, and surface quality. Guided by expert tuition, learners will weigh, mix, and prepare their own glaze recipes, gaining confidence in using raw materials safely and effectively.
Throughout the day, there will be opportunities to test and apply glazes to sample tiles, exploring how different combinations and application methods produce varied results. The workshop also introduces simple methods for recording and refining recipes, helping participants to continue experimenting independently beyond the session.

This two-day intensive pottery throwing course is suitable for all experience levels, from beginners to more experienced makers. Led by an expert tutor, and with a small group size of just 8 learners, you will receive focused guidance throughout. You will be introduced to essential techniques including clay preparation, centering, and throwing basic forms such as cylinders and bowls. Those with prior experience will also benefit from personalised support to help refine and develop their skills further.

In this masterclass for learners of all experience levels, our expert tutor will help you explore the finer points of throwing and handbuilding pots. The course will cover the basics for learners who are relatively new to the subject while providing further support for those with more experience.

Learn some of the basics of throwing and handbuilding in this one-day taster class. Your expert tutor will take you step by step through some of the skills and techniques you need to create beautiful ceramics by hand or on the potter’s wheel. Please be aware that the studio has eight wheels, so can’t guarantee access to one throughout the session. Let your tutor know if you have a preference for throwing or handbuilding.

This engaging workshop, delivered over 3 weeks, explores creative approaches to producing distressed and textured surfaces in clay. Suitable for all levels, the course is ideal for anyone interested in adding depth, character, and a sense of history to their ceramic work.
Across the sessions, participants will experiment with a range of techniques to manipulate and transform clay surfaces. These may include carving, layering, tearing, impressing, and using slips and oxides to create worn, aged, or weathered effects. Emphasis is placed on exploration and process, encouraging learners to develop unique surface qualities inspired by natural textures, decay, and time-worn materials.
Tutor demonstrations and individual guidance will support learners in combining methods to achieve rich, expressive results. All materials and firing costs are included in the course fee.

Learn new skills and pursue your own projects in this 10-week pottery class for experienced pottery practitioners. As well as teaching new techniques, the tutor will be on hand to provide support and advice. .If you’re unsure about your current skill level, please contact Sofie Kilburn, Curriculum Leader for Art, Pottery, and Performing Arts, at sofie.kilburn@lewisham.gov.uk. She will be happy to advise about the most suitable pottery course for your needs.

Learn how to use a potter’s wheel in this engaging short course, suitable for all abilities. Delivered in a small group of up to 8 learners, you’ll benefit from plenty of individual support. Across three Saturday sessions, you’ll be guided through the fundamentals of throwing, developing your skills step by step to create a simple pot ready for firing. Guided by an expert tutor, you’ll build confidence as you explore a range of techniques in a relaxed and supportive environment. All materials are provided as part of the course fee.

In this throwing course for learners of all abilities, you will develop the skills you need to create a range of vessels and forms on the potter’s wheel. You will also learn a variety of surface decoration techniques both on and off the wheel, and explore how composition and designing sets of vessels can elevate the humble pot into a beautiful three dimensional picture.

In this masterclass for learners of all experience levels, our expert tutor will help you explore the finer points of designing and making pots. The course will cover the basics for learners who are relatively new to the subject while providing further support for those with more experience.