Courses

Ceramics Award Level 2

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  • Course Type
    Adult Courses
  • Course Code
    VA205
  • Campus
    Twelve Quays
  • Start Date
    3rd Feb
  • Level
    Level 2
  • Duration

    15 Weeks

Our Level 2 Award in Ceramics will provide you with the knowledge and practical skills needed to develop your interest in clay into a more advanced and confident practice. You will be introduced to the fundamental principles of ceramics, gaining an understanding of the relationship between materials, processes, techniques and creative ideas.

From learning essential hand-building and wheel-throwing techniques to exploring surface decoration, glazing and kiln processes, you will develop a broad and versatile skill set. The course bridges traditional ceramic practices with contemporary approaches, allowing you to experiment creatively while building technical confidence.

You will take part in a hands on, practical programme of study, culminating in a collection of finished ceramic outcomes that demonstrate your creative development and technical skills.

  • Course Details

    This course is intended for students who want to progress into further study or a career within ceramics, craft, or the wider creative industries. You will cover the following:

    Foundations of Ceramics
     Understanding clay types and their properties
     Basic hand building techniques (coil, slab, pinch)
     Form, structure and surface

    Ceramic Techniques
     Exploring hand building processes
     Introduction to wheel throwing
     Joining, shaping and refining clay forms

    Surface Decoration
     Applying texture, pattern and mark making
     Use of slips, oxides and underglazes
     Exploring both traditional and contemporary approaches

    Glazing and Firing
     Understanding glazing techniques and applications
     Introduction to kiln types and firing processes
     Health and safety in the ceramics studio

    Materials and Equipment
     Working with specialist tools and equipment
     Understanding studio setup and safe working practices

    Conceptual Development
     Developing ideas for a personal ceramic project
     Exploring how material and process inform creative outcomes

    Creative Exploration
     Experimenting with form, scale and function
     Developing individual style through making

    Historical and Contemporary Context
     Exploring the history of ceramics
     Understanding contemporary ceramic practice and makers

    Critical Analysis and Evaluation
     Reflecting on your own work and process
     Analysing the work of other ceramic artists

    Professional Practice and Ethics
     Safe and responsible use of materials and equipment
     Awareness of sustainability in ceramics

    Portfolio Development

    • Producing a collection of finished ceramic outcomes
     Documenting your process through a visual journal
     Presenting work to a professional standard

  • Can I study for free?

    Can I study for free?

    You may be able to study for free if this course will help improve your employment prospects. You could be eligible if you are:

    • Employed and earning below:
      • £37,144.00 (if you live in the Liverpool City Region; Wirral, Liverpool, Sefton, Knowsley, St Helens or Halton)
      • £26,800 (if you live outside the Liverpool City Region)
    • Employed and receiving certain state benefits
    • Unemployed (with or without benefits)
    • Asylum seekers can access free courses up to Level 2 if the course supports long-term employment.

    Terms and Conditions apply.

  • Entry Guidelines

    You must be 19 or over to study on this course. You do not need formal qualifications for this course.

    You must be able to follow instructions, be willing to work independently, produce answers in a clear and understandable form and organise information clearly.

    It is open to individuals of all levels, from beginners with a keen interest in the subject, to those looking to refine their skills.

    If English is not your first language, you may need an assessment before enrolling on this course. To discuss further, please contact the ESOL department on 0151 551 7144.

  • Timetable

    September - The course starts 23rd September 2026 and finishes 27th January 2027.

    February - The course starts on 3rd February 2027 and finishes 16th June 2027.

    The sessions are on Wednesday evenings from 6-9pm.

  • Equipment Required

    Most materials will be provided during your session.

  • Assessment Methods

    Assessment for this course is primarily through coursework, practical assignments, and portfolio development. Students will have the opportunity to showcase their understanding of specialist subject concepts through hands-on projects and digital portfolio submissions.

If you're not eligible to study for free, the cost of this course is:

£402.00

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