This course will focus on production pottery and throwing repeat forms to a consistently strong standard.

“In Autumn 2025 workshops will commence in our newly built Learning Studios. It is possible that any courses booked for September – December 2025 will be taught in the new studios instead of Bernard’s Studio. Participants will receive an email shortly before the start of their course to confirm which studio they will be attending.”

Once the move to the new studios has been made, restoration works will render the Leach Pottery museum closed. During this period courses will be begin with a 30 min introductory talk about the story of the Leach Pottery.

Participants will: 

- focus on repeating the same form to achieve consistency  

- learn techniques to increase speed and efficiency 

- explore the balance of form and function 

- learn about weight and measurements in relation to size 

- Undertake exercises that encourage minimal steps in throwing and tool use. 

At the beginning of this course, there will be a short introduction to production pottery, the tools that are most effective, workspace set-up, and clay preparation.  

The tutor will then explore the learning points through a series of demonstrations followed by individual practice underpinned by guidance and support. The tutor will encourage the consideration of each stage of making, filtering out unnecessary use of tools and movements with an aim to achieve a deliberate and direct approach towards making and an improvement in production, quality, and consistency.  

By the end of this course, you will have practiced repeating the same forms to specific measurements, have a sound understanding of the most effective methods for repeat production throwing, and improved your skills. Due to the building project at the Leach Pottery this course does not offer the opportunity to see the production studio at the Leach Pottery. 

When: Please see dates opposite
Where: Bernard’s Studio, (Unfortunately, courses held in Bernard’s Studio are inaccessible for wheelchair users)
Places: 4
Duration: 5 days. Core teaching hours: 10am – 4pm and 10am – 3.30pm on the last day.
Please arrive at 9.30am on the first day of your course to take part in the tour of the museum.
Equipment & materials: Clay and a basic tool kit is provided: we focus on building core skills and working directly with the clay to get the most from a central selection of tools. Please bring additional tools if you wish to use them along with an apron and hand towel.
This course will: Help participants achieve throwing consistently and efficiently 
You will leave with: Five pots that will be glazed, fired at the Leach Pottery, and sent to you* up to 12 weeks after the course has finished. Each piece needs to be within the footprint of 20 x 20 x 20cm. Please bring a box and packing material to take a maximum of two unfired pieces away with you if you wish.
Level: Intermediate - to take part on this course, you will need to be able to center reliably, produce cylinders, and be able to achieve the forms that you aim for. 

Cost: £690

We are delighted to offer you a 10% discount for use in our shop which is valid for 14 days from your course start date.

*if the address that you would like your work posting to is non-UK, extra postage may apply.

Any questions? Please visit our FAQ — The Leach Pottery.

Due to a high demand of orders please allow up to 10 days for confirmation of your booking.

Please be aware, only assistance dogs are allowed in the Learning spaces.

Terms & Conditions — The Leach Pottery

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5 Day Specialist Skills Course: Production Pottery - Throwing With Efficiency & Skill Bernard’s Studio 2025

2025 dates sold out to be added to the waiting list please email Charmaine charmaine.orkamfat@leachpottery.com