FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

COURSES:

1.1 What courses are coming up?

Available courses will shortly be published on the website. In the meantime, complete an enquiry form and you will be e-mailed with updates..

1.2 Do you sell gift vouchers?

Yes! We sell vouchers for our one-off taster sessions. These will shortly be published on the website.

1.3 If I miss a class on a course can I catch up another time?

In the event of non-attendance or arriving late to classes it is not possible to provide alternative studio time, or for a class to be rescheduled. We usually run at full capacity so it is not possible to swap classes or use the studio outside of the allotted class times to ‘catch up’. When signing up to a course please check that you can attend as many of the classes as possible. See Terms and Conditions. You can apply to book a “drop-in” session which are designed to allow you adequate time to complete a project within the block of classes. The link to the drop-in sessions are sent by email at the beginning of the course. They are untutored and incur a fee to cover the cost of supervision and use of the studio.

1.4 Who can use the ‘Drop-In’ sessions?

These are just for people who are enrolled on a currently running pottery course or by arrangement with Alison Hannah (email info@theclayyardtotnes.co.uk to request information) who have previous experience of working with clay. These sessions aren’t suited for complete beginners as they require you to work unsupported.

1.5 Can I arrange a private session for team building or a group activity?

We can host a range of sessions and activities. More information about team-building can be found on the teams page. Please e-mail info@theclayyardtotnes.co.uk

1.6 Why is there additional charge for materials, why isn’t it included in the course?

The Clay Yard aims to teach value and precision. The courses focus on process and refinement in order that the participant gains an insight into the value of the making-by-hand processes. Please refer to the sustainability strategy on the website. Making items with more than 1kg of clay has an impact on the studio systems in the following ways…

  • The pot may not be easily stored for drying and takes up additional space whilst drying.

  • large forms may mean that less shelving can be used for firing work significantly impacting on the turnover of firings for other users in the space.

  • Large forms require more glaze materials.

  • Storage of finished items is limited and can clutter the space impacting on the learning environment for other users

1.7 When can I collect my work? More information about the collection of work.

1.8 What is the class size?

It is important that everyone makes good progress in a class. Class sizes are kept to a 1:8 ratio for general classes and 1:5 for specialist throwing classes. Many of the classes are supported by volunteer potters who provide additional guidance and support in most classes. The cost of the class starts at £12 per/hr which compares well with other local providers (ranging from £11.60 to £20 p.hr). Please check the class size when making your comparisons as many will have larger class sizes and therefore less focussed support.

1.9 Who do you use for your energy supply and is it from renewable sources?

As from the Dec 24 the kilns, wheels and kettle are all powered from renewable energy provided by Good Energy. Please take a moment to review our sustainability policy.

2.0 Are the glazes safe to use and will they be stable when used in the kitchen and with food? There are many factors that influence the stability of a glaze. We have chosen glazes that have a low level of unstable materials and aim to avoid more toxic components such as those with barium and nickel. See the Glaze Guide for more information. Our technician is working to explore the development of glazes that are assuredly stable and non-toxic.

Last Updated 22/01/25 by Alison Hannah