Potclays support new Ceramics T Level

On Tuesday 8 July, Potclays were delighted to be invited to the launch of the new Ceramics T Level at the City of Stoke-on-Trent Sixth Form College who will soon be setting a new generation of artists on their clay journey. We're proud to have partnered with Kilncare to support the college in this new venture: We both believe in #Educlaytion for all.

The City of Stoke Sixth Form College offers a wide range of Art & Design courses. Students progress to universities to study the Arts including London School of Art, UAL. A smaller number progress into employment or apprenticeships. The college has an end of year exhibition each July to showcase their students' final pieces.

The Staffordshire LSIP (Local Skills Improvement Plan) identified skills gaps within advanced manufacturing and ceramics. The DfE has provided funding to post-16 institutions to support in addressing these skills gaps. With these funds, the college has transformed their garage into a fully equipped ceramics studio with kiln, range of clays and glazes, and a wide range of tools, resources and equipment - supported by Potclays, Kilncare, BCB and Staffordshire University.

The T Level combines employer engagement practical skills and understanding of the creative sector. Students will complete a written exam, portfolio-based work working to briefs and work placement within industry. Students develop wider craft and design skills and knowledge alongside specialising in ceramics. Skill development is specific to ceramic industry and requires specialist teaching resources and equipment. 

The course will cover types of clay, their characteristics, properties, firing temperatures and shrinkage. Students will learn about types of glazes, pigments, oxides and methods of application. Processes, production and making techniques such as slip casting, throwing, sculpting and using moulds will be covered, as well as decoration techniques such as embossing, screen printing, transfers and sgraffito. Industry-specific topics will be taught, such as health and safety, sourcing of materials, waste management, ethics and sustainability, costing and budgeting.

These are exciting times for our students here in Stoke-on-Trent, giving us renewed hope for the future of ceramics in the Potteries.