How to apply

Apprentices:

  • the apprentice is expected to identify the host potter with whom he/she would like to work and to gain the consent of the host potter in order to make a joint application for funding
  • No educational qualifications are necessary, although a reasonable knowledge and experience of working with clay is required to make a positive contribution to the host potter
  • There is no age limit and every applicant is considered on his or her own merit
  • Applications can be made at any time of the year, using our application form which can be downloaded from the link below
  • Once you have established an agreement between you and your chosen host potter please apply for funding by submitting the application form with all the necessary information together with 6 good quality images of your work
  • The host potter is also required to complete the application form, and submit a CV and up to 6 images
  • The information provided will be considered by the Trustees during the next quarterly meeting following the application and if the application is successful, both host and student will be notified within 14 days from the meeting

Requirements from Host Potters:

  • appropriate employers liability insurance cover
  • the provision of a safe working environment within the bounds of common sense
  • the provision of suitable safety equipment if needed i.e. face masks when mixing glazes
  • tuition, comment and guidance for the apprentice on a daily basis
  • sufficient time for the apprentice to make their own work (half a day per week at least)
  • ensure that the apprentice is punctual and committed and advise the Trust if the apprentice is absent from work for a protracted period of time to the detriment of the partnership

Although the Trustees cannot recommend host potters, we do post a list of potters who are interested in talking to apprentices about a possible partnership. Additionally, if you would like your name to be posted on the Partnership page, please complete the Contact form.

Useful sources of information for identifying a host potter:

  • ‘The Ceramics Book’ pulished by Ceramic Review Publishing Ltd is a directory of potters all over the UK (limited to the Craft Potters Association professional members) which gives a brief description of the potters’ work and contact details
  • www.studiopottery.co.uk is a good website featuring many potters
  • various search engines, such as Google

As part of your application, it is important to define what it is you want to learn, i.e. your interest in terms of skills and techniques, etc. The Apprenticeship is intended to add to your knowledge and skills, so it is recommended you carefully research host potters to ensure they can assist you to realise your ambitions.

The Trust has certain requirements that is expects the Host Potter to observe. Please ensure that these are discussed and agreed with your chosen partner.

For further information on apprenticeship applications please contact: Darren Ellis at: darren6ellis@hotmail.co.uk

DOWNLOAD APPLICATION FORM All decisions and awards are at the discretion of the Trustees, whose decision is final and no correspondence in relation to the decisions will be entered into.