Question 1

I have never worked with clay before. Is that ok?

Accepted Answer

Yes absolutely. Unless stated, all of our courses and experiences are designed for complete beginners and also people with some existing clay skills.

Question 2

Where is the Claypit?

Accepted Answer

In Oswestry, Shropshire, UK. Find us at the end of Coney Green, in the Cambrian Buildings. We back directly onto the railway line. From standing outside Sainsbury's walk under the covered walk way and turn right down Coney Green towards the railway line.  After about 20 meters, walk through a large set of open metal gates on your right into a small carpark. You will see the Claypit sign above our entrance.

Question 3

Where can I park?

Accepted Answer

We suggest you use the main Oswestry town carpark which is a short walk away and free after 6pm.

Question 4

Who are the tutors at the Claypit?

Accepted Answer

Our main tutor is Claypit founder, Rachel Swift. Rachel is a fantastic teacher and is able to make people feel relaxed and comfortable. Rachel teaches a wide range of skills having worked with clay for about 40 years (since she was a nipper). Also if you want to know about Bronze Age, Roman, Medieval ceramics or pottery from ancient cultures around the world just ask! Rachel is a fully trained UK Accredited Ceramics Conservator-Restorer who worked at the British Museum for 8 years, the National Trust, English Heritage and on many archaeological excavations across the UK, Europe and Middle East. She also has 2 smallish children and a fox red labrador called Moss.

Rachel Holian is the tutor on our Throwing courses and is a superb teacher. She is enthusiastic, friendly and will get you throwing in no-time.  You will benefit from Rachel’s expert knowledge of making on potter’s wheel and also from her two decades worth of teaching experience.  As well as making her own ceramic art work, exhibiting at the UK’s most respected ceramic art fairs, Rachel teaches four days a week at Colleg Cambria in Wrexham. Rachel also has 1 smallish child, 1 baby and a grumpy cat called Kate Bush.

Question 5

Do you have sessions for children?

Accepted Answer

Yes we run fully facilitated Family Sessions on the 1st Saturday of the month, for 6-11 year olds and accompanying adults.

Question 6

Can I arrange a 1 to 1 pottery session?

Accepted Answer

We don't currently have capacity to offer 1:1 sessions however our class sizes are small so you get plenty of individual guidance.

Question 7

When can I collect the work I made at the Claypit?

Accepted Answer

We will be in touch via email as soon as your creations are ready.  We aim to have work ready approximately 4 weeks after the experience or end of the course. We have limited storage so you will need to collect your  work within 2 months from the date of the email. There will be specific collection times to make sure someone is there when you come to collect.

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