Art & Design

NCFE Award Creative Crafts (Level 1) - Ceramics Pathway

Overview

Discover the Joy of Working with Clay

This beginners course is the perfect introduction to the world of ceramics. No previous experience is needed — just an interest in getting hands‑on with clay.

This course is ideal for anyone aged 19 and above who wants to develop new craft skills in ceramics or broaden their understanding of creative crafts.

Am I Ready?

There are no specific prior qualifications, learning or experience required for this qualification. However, learners will need basic literacy : i.e. the ability to read and interpret written tasks and to write answers in a legible and understandable form in the English language.

Course Details

Over this course, you will learn the basic skills used in ceramics. You will find out how to shape, form, decorate, and finish your own clay pieces. You’ll try hand‑building methods like slab, pinch, and coil work, and you’ll also learn simple glazing and surface design techniques. These activities will help you bring your ideas to life in clay.

You will work in a friendly and supportive studio with tutors who guide you as you build your skills. This course encourages creativity, self‑expression, and trying new things. You will also learn the basics about materials, tools, and how to work safely in the studio.

Modules include:

Fundamental hand-building techniques
How to use ceramic tools and equipment safely
Methods of decorating and glazing your pieces
Understanding the properties of clay and ceramic materials
Creating and presenting a final project or collection of your work.

Assessment

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course. This will help you understand your progress and the areas you can improve.

Learning will take place through group discussions, one‑to‑one tutorials, and set tasks. You will receive both formative feedback (to help you improve as you go) and summative feedback (to review what you have learned).

You will also keep a sketchbook during the course. This is where you will record your research, ideas, and notes from both your practical and theory work. It will become a record of your learning and development.

Fees & Funding

Low Income / Unemployed Seeking Work

Students that are unemployed and currently seeking work, or on a low income of up to £25,750 per annum may be able to enrol to a course at Level 2 or below free of charge. This is a government initiative and the course offer is subject to change. Grantham College reserves the right to offer a substitute course if the qualification advertised is not funded by the government. This does not affect your rights under Consumer Law.

* Courses listed as free under the course details are free (material costs may apply as shown in the additional information section).

Additional Information

You will need a sketchbook for your theory work and a notebook to take notes during class. You may also choose to buy some of your own materials to help develop your ideas, but this is optional.

Your Next Steps

There are other art and design courses on offer that may be of interest.

Course Details

Code: PGA05212 Type: Part Time Duration: 10 weeks Dates: 5 November 2026 Day: Thursday Time: 10:00 - 15:00

Costs: Registration Fee: £25 Entry Requirements: See “Am I Ready?”