Foundation Diploma in Ceramics

Entry requirements

The diploma is open to beginners who have had relevant experience in making ceramics and are familiar with the terminology, or those with some experience who require a structured course. You must also have:

• Access to a home or community pottery studio and firing facilities, to develop your work between courses
• A commitment to attending all six units at West Dean College on the dates published for this enrolment, since it is not possible to offer alternative dates
• Apply with evidence of your current work, skills and interests in ceramics

Months of entry

September

Course content

The West Dean Foundation Diploma in Ceramics is awarded in recognition of the successful completion of the two-year, part-time programme of six, three-day units, self-directed study and making, with a final 1500 word essay. It aims to offer a comprehensive understanding of the material and will enable you to gain a wide variety of clay techniques from hand-building to throwing, decorating and glazing work, that will develop your skills and build up your own creative language. You will be supported throughout the course, enabling you to create work based around your own research and interests.

The West Dean Foundation Diploma in Ceramics is suitable for potters who have had some experience with working with clay, either at West Dean or elsewhere, and are looking to commit to an extended programme of study and develop confidence within their own personal approach and inspirations.

Within each unit, an in-depth practical process will be introduced by the tutor, as a springboard to exploring techniques with individual direction to aid your development. The importance of health and safety and the running of a studio will be introduced alongside these units. There will also be talks on historical and contemporary issues in ceramics. Each unit will be held in the College’s fully equipped pottery studio that offers regular short courses with well-known makers of ceramics throughout the year.

Fees and funding