Apprenticeships
There are loads of learning curves on the road to becoming a potter, and mastering clay, like any craft, takes practice and patience.
Does the apprentice get paid?
The apprentice doesn’t receive a salary but does receive training, management and Hub membership as outlined below. We appreciate that the lack of salary is a barrier to becoming an apprentice for anyone that understandably cannot afford the time. We are therefore applying for funding to provide financial assistance for those in that situation. When successful we will post that information here.
What are the benefits of being an apprentice technician?
- You will be part of an apprentice technician team with support form Coombe Farm Studios staff.
- You will receive training on all the elements of your role, from recycling clay to mixing glazes, managing drying times, loading, unloading and firing kilns.
- Free Hub membership (worth £130 pcm) including time to make and develop your own work.
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What does the apprentice do?
An apprentice typically works at the pottery Hub for 6 months, with the last three weeks of the programme focusing on training the next apprentice.
As an apprentice technician the work you will undertake includes:
- Managing the drying process of workshop session pots
- Recycling clay
- Preparing glazes and slips
- Managing stock
- Keeping the pottery rooms tidy and organised
What is the time commitment?
The commitment is for one regular day per week 9am-5pm, for six months.
Many processes, which don’t form part of classes, take time, dedication and commitment. From managing the drying of clay to loading kilns, recycling clay, preparing glazes and managing stock. These are time consuming processes that form the essential foundation of becoming a potter.
The Apprentice Technician programme is an opportunity to learn these skills as well as experience in how to run your own space, building your confidence and experience as a potter, on the road to setting up your own pottery or pottery-based organisation.