Professional Development & Training
UPDATE FOR SEPTERMBER 2025
The Melbourne Clay teaching program is almost complete for the year. We’ll now be turning our focus back to the production side of the studio, with restaurants gearing up for a busy Spring and Christmas season and the need for beautiful, functional pieces at the forefront. A huge thank you to the 300+ enthusiastic potters who joined us in the studio, filling our workshops with creativity and energy, and to our incredible teachers — Keiko Matsui @keiko_matsui_ceramics , Sophie Moran @sophiejanemoran , Jessie Pittard @jessiepittard , Mary Lou Pittard @marylou_pittard , and Mike Skewes @michael.skewes.pottery and Linda Bloomfield @lindathepotter (coming in October) — for so generously sharing their skills, knowledge, and passion.
Looking ahead, we have big plans for our professional development program in 2026, which we’ll be launching in February with a brand-new teaching program packed with our most in-demand workshops and an inspiring new lineup of professional makers. Make sure you’re on our mailing list for priority enrolment!
Our commitment to training doesn’t stop here, though — during the busy production period we’ll also be inviting those who’ve expressed interest in working with us to come in and chat about gaining experience in a fast-paced studio environment and learning the ins and outs of studio life.
Melbourne Clay is dedicated to delivering top-tier training, equipping individuals with the essential skills and knowledge for excellence. Our teachers are carefully chosen based on years of successful career experience in the field of clay. Instructors bring their valuable real-world expertise into the classroom. Through our professional training programs and supported studio programs, we strive to empower aspiring makers, ensuring they are well-prepared to navigate the intricacies of the ceramic industry. By fostering a collaborative and inspiring environment, Melbourne Clay aims to be a hub where ideas flourish, talents thrive, and the boundaries of ceramics are continually pushed.
Exciting things are on the horizon with our upcoming workshops! Melbourne Clay is thrilled to announce a series of dedicated workshops aimed at honing skills and celebrating craftsmanship.
These workshops will feature a dynamic blend of local artisans and invited craftspeople, each bringing a unique expertise to the table. Get ready for an immersive learning experience where you can refine your skills and connect with fellow enthusiasts, all under the guidance of skilled and passionate mentors. Stay tuned for details on our workshop schedule and join us in the pursuit of artistic excellence.
Sunday in Review:
Working in a pottery studio can often be a solitary endeavor. We immerse ourselves in the creative process, surrounded by nothing but clay and our thoughts. While this isolation can be conducive to deep focus and inspiration, there are times when one can feel stuck, longing for guidance, especially when things go wrong.In such moments, having a network to call upon becomes invaluable. But who do you call? This question finds its answer in “Sunday in Review” at Melbourne Clay, a haven for potters seeking assistance.
“Sunday in Review” are 2 hr casual classes (mostly on Sundays but not always), open to anyone who needs to wants help to improove their throwing. The group will always be lead by an experience practicing maker however, each member is encouraged contribute. Whether you seek advice on technique, feedback on a piece in progress, At “Sunday in Review”, a maximum of eight participants per session, gather in a casual and informal setting, fostering meaningful exchanges and the reassurance that you are not alone.
Please make sure you can attend the workshop, as we do not offer refunds. If we are able to fill your spot with someone from the waitlist, we will provide a Melbourne Clay Credit Note, valid for 12 months. This credit can be used for workshops or studio access but cannot be exchanged for products or firing services.
