This TAFE NSW Introduction to ceramics course is a friendly, hands-on community class designed for adults who want to learn pottery and ceramics skills in a relaxed, supportive setting. Held at the Auburn Centre for Community, the program is ideal for parents and learners wanting to explore clay, glazing and handbuilding while meeting other local people.
What to Expect
You will spend time getting familiar with clay, learning basic pottery techniques like handbuilding, coiling and slab construction. The course focuses on practical outcomes so participants leave with finished pieces such as cups, bowls, plates, planters and heart boxes, plus the skills to continue at home or in a community studio.
Expect a friendly classroom vibe supported by TAFE NSW trainers and Cumberland City Council. Sessions are structured to suit beginners and those returning to ceramics, with clear demonstrations, guided practice and time for creative experimentation using clay and glaze.
Materials and equipment are covered by the subsidised program, and you will get guided glazing sessions so your finished ceramics are fired and ready to take home. The learning includes decorating techniques and safe studio practices for working with clay and glazes.
Activity Details
This is an 8-week program running on consecutive Mondays from 2 February to 30 March 2026, with each session scheduled from 09:30 to 14:30. The class is delivered by TAFE NSW and supported by Cumberland City Council as a fully government-subsidised training program.
Participants must be unemployed, Australian residents, aged 18 years or over and eligible to study in Australia. The course requires a Unique Student Identifier (USI) to enrol and is identified by Course ID CSO5555-V03.
Practical reminders include wearing comfortable clothing and enclosed shoes, bringing a water bottle, and being prepared for some hands-on, potentially messy studio time. The focus is on building pottery skills, glazing techniques and creating usable ceramic pieces.
Location and Access
Classes are held at Auburn Centre for Community, 44A Macquarie Road, Auburn, a central and accessible venue for families in the Cumberland area. The location is close to local transport links and community facilities which makes drop-offs and pick-ups straightforward for parents.
There is parking and nearby public transport; please check local timetables on the day. The community centre has accessible facilities and staff can assist with enquiries about access and mobility needs before you attend.
If you need translation or additional support to understand the enrolment information, Cumberland City Council suggests using the Translating and Interpreting Service and contacting the council customer service for help. The venue is part of the local community program offering regular arts and adult learning opportunities.
Important Information
This is a government-subsidised student training program and is offered free to eligible participants. A Unique Student Identifier (USI) is required to participate, and you can obtain one via the national USI website if you do not already have one.
The course is aimed at adults (18+) who meet the eligibility criteria; places are limited and registrations are required to secure your spot. The program is suitable for complete beginners and those with some prior clay experience, with hands-on tuition by qualified TAFE NSW staff.
Health and safety in the ceramics studio is important: wear enclosed shoes, comfortable clothing you don’t mind getting clay on, and bring a water bottle to stay hydrated during the 5-hour sessions. Children are not the focus of this adult training program, but parents will find the schedule family-friendly during school terms.
Booking and Prices
This course is FREE (fully government-subsidised) for eligible participants. Registrations are open and can be made in person at Auburn Centre for Community, Berala Community Centre or Guildford Community Centre between 9:00 and 16:00.
To enrol you will need to provide proof of eligibility and your USI (Unique Student Identifier). The course is identified as Course ID CSO5555-V03 and you will be contacted by TAFE NSW and Cumberland City Council to confirm your registration and place.
Spaces are limited so early registration is recommended. If you need more information about eligibility, enrolment or course content, check the TAFE NSW information or contact the community centre by phone for assistance.