Ceramics Level 3 – Advanced Studio Practice (Part-time, Two Years)

Across the two years, you will: 

• Explore a range of ceramic techniques, from hand-building methods such as pinch, coil and slab construction, through to wheel throwing, press moulding and slip casting 

• Develop your understanding of clay bodies, glazing, oxides and firing processes 

• Investigate the work of historical and contemporary ceramic artists to inform and inspire your own practice 

• Respond creatively to set briefs, developing ideas from initial research through to a finished outcome 

• Specialise in an area of ceramic practice that interests you most, whether that’s sculpture, functional ceramics, architectural ceramics, raku firing or mixed-media work 

• Complete a self-directed Final Major Project, bringing together your technical skills and creative voice in a substantial body of work 

• Build essential studio skills, including health and safety practice, kiln management and professional presentation 

Course units 

Year 1 

• Unit 1: Introduction to Ceramic Process 

• Unit 2: Developing Ceramic Techniques 

• Unit 3: Responding to a Brief 

Year 2

• Unit 4: Researching Specialist Ceramics Practice 

• Unit 5: Specialist Technical Skills 

• Unit 6: Final Major Project (FMP)

You will learn through a combination of practical studio sessions, individual and group critiques, and self-directed project work. Learning is evidenced through a portfolio of research, experimentation and development work, allowing you to track your progress and reflect on your practice throughout the course. Your final project and one additional unit are assessed through an internally verified assessment process, with ceramics work moderated to ensure consistent, high-quality standards are maintained across all learners. 

DATES 

Each unit comprises 10 classes.

2027 

Unit 1: Jan 15,22,29 Feb 5, 12, 26 March 5,12,19

Unit 2: April 16, 23, 30 May 7,21,28 June 11,18, 25 July 2

Unit 3: Sept 24, Oct 1,8,15,22, Nov 5,12,19,26, Dec 3

2028 

Unit 4: Jan 14,21,28 Feb 4,11 March 3,10,17,24,31

Unit 5: April 28, May 5,12,19,26 June 9,16,23,20 July 7,14  

Unit 6: Sept 22,29, Oct 6,13,20 Nov 3,10,17,24 Dec 1

This course is designed for creative individuals with relevant experience in ceramics who are familiar with ceramic processes and terminology, as well as those with some prior experience who would benefit from a structured programme of study.

Applicants should also:

• ideally have access to a home or community pottery studio, including firing facilities, to support the development of their work.
• be committed to attending all six units on the published course dates.

All basic materials and equipment will be provided for this course. but the following are recommended:

• an apron or old clothes that you don’t mind getting messy.
• appropriate closed-toe footwear suitable for a workshop environment.
• any personal ceramic tools that you already own and are comfortable using (optional).
• a notebook and pen for recording techniques, ideas, and project development (advised).

This programme provides a clear pathway onto an accredited Level 4 Ceramics course.

Course Fee: £2,950 per year; £5.900 for year 1 and year 2. 

Day: Friday

Timings: 9.30am-4pm (half-hour lunch break) 

GLH: 360 (180 per year) 

• Internally Verified – Assessed and quality assured by Activate Learning, with detailed feedback to support your development (this course does not lead to a nationally recognised qualification). 

• Progression to Level 4 – Provides a clear pathway onto an accredited Level 4 Ceramics course. 

• City of Oxford College – Study in a dedicated ceramics studio with access to specialist equipment and facilities. 

• Small Group Learning – Benefit from personalised tutor support and individual feedback in a supportive studio environment. 

• Course Fee: £2,950 per Year – Excellent value for an intensive two-year programme of study. 

• Flexible Payment Options – Instalment plans are available to help spread the cost. 

• Materials Included – Clay, glazes, and firing costs are included in the course fee, with no significant additional material costs.