| Training and Development |
The Training Team: Jenny Hawkins is the General Manager of Country Love Ceramics Limited. Jenny has worked for Country Love since 2002 and has helped many studio and mobile owners set up their businesses during this time.
Guest Tutors - Throughout the calendar year Country Love Ceramics endeavour to have a range of Guest Tutors visit our offices at Milton Park. This enables us to continue to offer our customers a varied range of training techniques together with invaluable advice sessions.
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The Importance of Training:
Country Love Ceramics recognises the importance of training to newcomers to the trade besides the need for an on going development programme.
Our on site, training facility is a centre of excellence for clay cafes, mobile pottery studios and hobbyists worldwide. The course and seminar programme focuses on business, product, artistic and workshop development training needs. Popular courses are repeated and new seminars introduced to meet the demands and trends of an ever-changing industry. We also undertake bespoke training both at our Training Academy and on location.
Where necessary, Technique Sheets are provided along with the usual continued advice and support. Fees generally include free product and use of tools. Lunch and refreshments are available on most courses. For delegates travelling distances, details of local accommodation can be provided.
Following completion of a training module, attendees receive certificates as recognition of achievement. These certificates have proved to add value and prestige to your business profile.
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Training Grants: A number of delegates receive training grants from their Local Council, Business Link or Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) - these have ranged in value from £500 to £1500.
If you are lucky enough to be in a region offering these grants, please speak to us about quotations and/or bespoke training.
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Training Facilities:
Ideally located in Oxfordshire close to a mainline train station (Didcot Parkway), the M4 and M40. Full disabled facilities available |
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Bespoke Training: Bespoke training is ideal for individual training requirements e.g. training on specific dates and/or a mixture of selected techniques. Where there are more than 2 delegates from one company or area, Bespoke training is often cheaper too. Tell us your training needs and we will design a suitable training programme for you . These course can be held onsite or in our training room . Additionally, our Tutor can visit your studio and run a seminar of your choice...marketed well, these seminars will create income and inspire your customers!! The daily ‘Tutor Rate' (i.e. from 10am until 5pm) is £150 for the first delegate and £35 per delegate thereafter. Travel , subsistence and accommodation are also charged according to requirements. Bespoke courses that are held in our training room will not incur additional travel, subsistence or accommodation costs. No Bisque or materials are provided /included as part of the Bespoke course fees. Please order and pay for your goods at least 3-4 working days in advance of course date. If you need assistance, the course Tutor will be happy to provide a list of required materials, based on the mutually agreed agenda.
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Terms and Conditions: DELEGATE REQUIREMENTS: Brushes, tools, bisque, colour, glaze and decorating accessories will be provided for training held at Country Love Ceramics. Bespoke products will need to be ordered in advance (see Bespoke section above). Note that we do not offer a firing service for course delegates but on two-day courses may fire course work for collection on day two.
DEPOSITS: Full payment in advance is required for New Business Seminars. A 50% deposit (plus VAT) is required to guarantee spaces on all other seminars. If you book less than 2 weeks before the date of the course we will require full payment on booking.
CANCELLATION POLICY: To guarantee your place, please ensure a deposit payment is made. Deposits are non- refundable but can be switched to an alternative course if more than 5 working days notice is given in advance of course. Please advise immediately if you are unable to attend so that your place can be offered to another delegate.
PRE-ORDERED BISQUE: As a special incentive to attend one of our decorating courses, all pre ordered, discountable bisque, colour and glaze collected on the day of a course, will attract a discount level of 44%. Please ensure orders are received at least 2 full working days prior to the course start date. *Note this does not include any Guild ‘Bread & Butter' bisque items or fixed price products Please note, office and warehouse staff are unavailable during weekends so additional orders cannot be processed during weekend courses.
GENERAL NOTES: All prices quoted exclude vat. Please check our website for pictures and further details. Day courses usually start at 10.00hrs and finish circa 16.30hrs. Half day courses usually run from 10am until 1pm or from 2pm until 5pm. Any timings provided are given as an estimate and may vary according to the number of delegates in attendance. A buffet lunch is provided on most full day decorating courses. Please check course details for further information. All courses, unless otherwise stated, are run at our office in Abingdon, Oxfordshire. Places are allocated on a first come, first served basis. Maximum of 10 delegates per course plus 2 reserve places. Following any reservation, a letter will be sent confirming course details, travel & accommodation details etc. Travel info can also be found on our web site. Course notes are available for most seminars. Please ensure that all mobile phones are switched off during class. Children under the age of 16 are not permitted to attend training. Please note that courses are subject to change. Please check availability.
Please contact on sales@countryloveceramics.co.uk if you would like to make a booking |
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By Air: The nearest main airports are London Heathrow (approximately 40mins drive) London Gatwick (approximately 1½ hours drive) and Bristol (approximately 1½ hours drive). By Train: Didcot Parkway is the nearest Train Station. There are shuttle buses that run frequently from outside the front entrance (approximately every 10 mins). Also, there is a taxi rank at the front of Didcot Parkway. Milton Park is approximately 3-4 miles from the station. By Bus:
Oxford is the nearest main bus route.
By Car: From the M4 - Take A34 North (towards Oxford) at Junction 13. From M40 - Take A34 South (towards Newbury) at Junctions 8, 8a or 9. Leave A34 at Milton Interchange, clearly marked Didcot and Milton Park from both North and South approaches.
Enter Milton Park and pass a small Security Building on the left- hand-side. At the next round about turn left. Follow this road until you reach a T-junction. Moore Curtainsiders Limited business unit will be opposite the T Junction. We are next door to the right of this unit. The unit is clearly signposted Unit 37d. There is an overflow car park just past our Country Love Ceramics Unit 37d, turn first left, and behind, the building via this access point.
PLEASE REMEMBER TO KEEP CLEAR ACCESS/EXIT AREAS INFRONT OF THE GOODS IN ROLLER DOORS . Access to our offices is via the main office entrance door - please buzz to be let into the building. For safety and security reasons we do not allow access directly into our Warehouse, all visitors must report to the office upon arrival.
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Travel InformationHere is a list of local accommodation. We are unable to comment on their suitability or make recommendations i.e. this list is for information only.
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| 2010 TRAINING PROGRAMME "Old Favourites" |
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New Business Course With Jenny Hawkins This course is a one day intensive for anyone looking at the possibility of starting a 'Paint it Yourself Pottery' business. Whether you are considering a mobile operation, a shop location or just want to add party plans & adult workshops to your existing business you will find this course useful. There is no hard sell but there is plenty of advise. This day ends with a practical painting session and basic guidance on glazing, kiln loading and kiln management. Our New Business Course is aimed at people that have:
(a) Never been in business (b) Do not know about "paint it yourself pottery" (c) Both of the above
The first half of the day covers: Skills required to run your own "paint it yourself pottery" business Business styles (mobile or studio, formal or informal) Advantages, disadvantages and considerations for each style Whether or not to charge a studio fee Choosing your business name Creating a business plan Financial planning and financial decision making Other specific business requirements (e.g. health & safety, licences, employment, payroll, consumer rights, insurances, accounts, planning classifications, disclaimers, stock levels and margins etc) Sales and marketing Selling tips (writing press releases, target market etc) Stock selection & advice Support
The afternoon session is practical and involves learning the basics of decorating (delegates paint their own mug), basic glazing and kiln management.
The course is £30 + VAT and includes a £50 voucher off the cost of a Nabertherm kiln.
Price £30.00 [includes lunch]. Maximum of 12 delegates. All courses 10am-5pm Lunch is included.
The dates and times for 2010 are: Saturday 7th August Saturday 18th September Saturday 16th October Saturday 20th November
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Amazing Glazing With Andy Skinner
This course is free to anyone who has ordered a Nabertherm kiln through Country Love Ceramics or costs £40 to anyone who has not purchased a kiln.
It is a ½ day Glazing and Kiln Loading seminar – essential for all new business owners or as a refresher.
Which glaze(s) will you need? The qualities and differences of glazes Dipping, brushing and roll/spill glazing techniques Safe storage of your glaze Dry footing and stilting How to load your kiln efficiently Advanced loading techniques for plates, tiles etc Trouble shooting and frequently asked questions Your own copy of our ‘Glazing & Firing' manual to take away – packed full of helpful hints and tips.
A practical session is also included.
Price £40.00 or FREE to anyone who has bought a Nabertherm Kiln through Country Love Ceramics. Lunch not included. Maximum of 15 delegates. Course time 10am-2pm
The dates for 2010 are: Friday August 6th Friday 17th September Friday 15th October Friday 19th November Friday 10th December
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Basic and Specialist Pottery Painting Courses With Andy Skinner
There courses are both two-day modules. Price £130.00 [Includes lunch] = 2 day Guild Members £105.00 [Includes lunch] = 2 day Maximum of 12 delegates
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Plaster Outprints and Clay Imprints With Andy Skinner This is either a one day combined course or you do have the option of half day courses to learn one of these techniques. The one day course will enable delegates to learn how to make Plaster Outprints and Clay Imprints, finishing, firing, framing methods and marketing. Should you wish to select our half day course options for either the Plaster Outprints or Clay Imprints do please request the relevant option at point of course booking. Plaster Outprints are taught in the morning and Clay Imprints in the afternoon.
Plaster Outprints 10am until 1pm. Learn how to make 3D impressions in plaster. Delegates will be taught how to make a mould, correctly mix plaster and how to decorate and display this wonderful keepsake. We try to organise for a baby to attend the session for a life-like experience. Sell the finished goods for approximately £30 per print or £60 per double print. Clay Imprints 2pm until 5pm. Learn how to prepare clay, effectively dry, bisque fire, decorate and glaze fire these treasured impressions. We try to organise for a baby to attend the session for a life-like experience. Sell the finished goods for approximately £30 per print or £60 per double print.
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Enamelling Introduction With Andy Skinner
Price £30.00 [excludes lunch] Maximum of 12 delegates
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| 2010 Sale and Unveil Open Days |
Our Sale & Unveil Open Days have been very well attended so
far and we have received very positive feedback.
We find the Open Days very useful for putting names to faces
& getting to know you & we hope that you find the same.
The remaining
date for 2010 is :-
Date 3: Monday 4th October (theme: Christmas)
To be revealed ....... 18 new, exclusive bisque items including:
7 revamped shapes made by popular request
2 new models for boys/men
9 new Christmas designs
E-mail Caroline at carolinep@countryloveceramics.co.uk to reserve your place.
NOTE: Places are limited and each earlier event has been full.
Each event has the same format but includes different themes, products and promotions.
Themed product showcases and
launches. Delegates
will be given the
opportunity see new products and hear about some exciting new projects in
advance of their promotion.
"LOT" boxes. Bargain products at reduced prices ready to take away.
Event offers. Watch out for the special offers revealed each
time.
Increased discounts. A one-off, increased delegate discount
on discountable
bisque, colour and glaze. This discount will be valid for any orders placed on the
day of the event (or placed in advance of the event for collection on the day).
FREE samples. Each delegate will receive one sample of each
new bisque item.
Decorating seminars. The day's event will finish with a relaxing
ceramic
decorating seminar in the afternoon using some of the new products unveiled
at the launch.
Inspiration and Support. Don't forget, these events are more
than just training.
They provide great opportunities to meet, network and exchange opinions with
other "Paint Your Own Pottery" businesses and they provide inspiration. If you
are prepared to make a short 5 minute talk on an event or service that has been
well received, or if you would like to ask for feedback on problems, then please e-mail
jennyh@countryloveceramics.co.uk.
Time: 10am until 4pm.
Cost: £24.00 GM, £26.00 Non Guild Member
Lunch
is included.
Limited spaces. Book early to avoid disappointment.
| 2010 Training Courses |
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Please note items used on any course may vary from those shown in photos, although techniques taught remain the same.
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Complete Wedding Course With Andy Skinner This is a "complete" wedding course. The wedding market is one which Andy targeted when owning his own studio for the following reasons:
In one day, delegates will learn both traditional and modern methods of creating signature plates for weddings or any other celebrations, writing techniques both in 3D and flat, learn how to apply and fire lustres, use and be shown how to create their own ceramic decals and make Photoshop templates and so much more. Finally and most importantly, delegates will be given top maketing strategies on how to promote their wedding services both locally and via the internet. One day course
10am-4pm 2010 Course Dates: Tuesday 19th September
Price: £80.00 [Includes Lunch] Guild Members £75.00 [Includes Lunch] Maximum of 12 delegates
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Fingerprint Pendant
Resin and Mixed Media
Fingerprint Cufflinks
Textured Silver |
Silver Clay Keepsakes (Silver Fingerprints and Silver Leafprints) With Andy Skinner With over 20 years experience in the keepsake industry to pass on, why not come and join us for a days training and learn how to produce beautiful quality silver fingerprints and leaf-print jewellery using Silver Clay products. Techniques including producing fingerprint moulds, working with Silver Clay products, firing, adding texture, burnishing, finishing & polishing, tumbling, antiquing, shaping, letter printing, scribing, attaching findings, producing leaf-prints and re-hydrating the clay. Delegates make a minimum of 4 items including a leaf pendant, fingerprint cufflinks and a fingerprint pendant. Further items can be made with the excess Silver Clay. A soldering demonstration will also be held during the course. We also supply Silver Clay products, tools and kilns, absolutely everything you need to get yourself started. We also offer bespoke training which can be tailored to suit your needs, if you would like to combine more than one course over a couple of days then please contact us.
2010 Course Dates: Tuesday 17th August Saturday 25th September Friday 8th October Wednesday 17th November Monday 6th December
Overflow courses maybe offered according to demand. Please note findings for your pieces can be purchased on the day, this includes cufflink backings
One Day: 10am until 4pm Price: £135.00 [Includes Lunch] Maximum of 8 delegates |
SOAP MAKING & BATH PRODUCTS
Learn
how to produce and package the bath products listed below!
Bath bombs, fizzing bath dust, layered bath salts with
botanicals, quartz bath treasures,
shower gels, body polish, melt and pour soap,
Aloe Vera body gels and hand soaps.
This is an Ideal party option, gift set, workshops,take away kit or
Ceramic accompaniment.

(Max 10 delegates)
With Andy Skinner
One Day Course - 10am until 4pm - Lunch included.
Price £75.00
Guild Members £70.00
Dates for 2010 are:
Tuesday 10th August
Tuesday 6th October
You can now purchase a complete Soap & Bath starter kit
as detailed below:-
Soap & Bath Starter Kit
SOLD AS A COMPLETE STARTER KIT
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Kit Contents |
Weight/Qty |
Citric Acid – Fine Grade |
5kg |
Sodium Bicarbonate |
5kg |
Yellow Colour Pigment |
25ml |
Blue Colour Pigment |
25ml |
Red Colour Pigment |
25ml |
Brown Colour Pigment |
25ml |
Pink Rose Buds |
100g |
Lavender Flowers |
100g |
Large Bath Bomb Molds |
4 Pairs |
Clear Straight Sided Jars – Aluminium Lids |
10 Pack |
Clear Dumpy Bottles 250ml |
10 Pack |
Flat Top Smooth Screw Cap |
10 Pack |
Green Apple Fragrance Oil |
10ml |
Christmas Spice Fragrance Oil |
10ml |
Strawberry Fragrance Oil |
10ml |
Cherry Fragrance Oil |
10ml |
Vanilla Cream Fragrance Oil |
10ml |
Bubblegum Fragrance Oil |
10ml |
Large PVC Cornet Cone |
10 Pack |
Frosted Cellulose Bags |
10 Pack |
Liquid Concentrate Bath/Shower |
1 Litre |
Clear Soap Base |
5kg |
Opaque Soap Base |
1kg |
Luxury Foaming Bath Butter |
1kg |
Cosmetic Grade Glitter – Gold |
10g |
Cosmetic Grade Glitter – Silver |
10g |
Sweet Almond Oil |
500ml |
Coarse Granular Sea Salt |
5kg |
Epsom Salt |
1kg |
| Total Kit: £185.00 |
All prices exclude vat and delivery.
| 2010 Decorating Seminars |
Tribal Decorating Course
As part of the launch our our DecoArt distributorship, learn how to produce
this wonderful wine cooler CC007 using DecoArt Americana Acrylics.
Achieve a glaze like firing without the need to fire in a kiln.
Underglaze and Pottery Glazing techniques will be demonstrated and used
for the Plate design shown below. Produce an African theme fruit bowl
using Pottery Glazes in conjuction with underglazes.

2010 Course Dates:
Tuesday 28th September
Monday 4th October
10am-4pm
Full Day course, Lunch included
Price £49.00
Guild Members £46.00
Inspired Not Fired
Decorating course (DecoArt)
On this one day course delegates will learn to use a range of DecoArt
products on bisque. This no-fire technique gives speedy but colourful
results, and can be used on numerous types of surfaces including
ceramics, wood, glass and metal.
Products will include:
Techniques

2010 Course Dates:
Monday 13th September
10am-4pm
Full Day course, Lunch included
Price £35.00
Guild Members £30.00
FIMO Training
Learn how to achieve the very best results with FIMO polymer
modelling clay by attending our training courses with expert
Andy Skinner.
FUN WITH FIMO

This is a half-day course which will teach basic FIMO
modelling techniques. Delegates will learn how to cut,
shape and bake. Projects include key-ring charms,
small models and simple jewellery pieces.
Dates for 2010:
Tuesday 21st September
10am-2pm
Half Day course, Lunch is not included
Price £42
Guild Members £37
FANTASTIC FIMO - Advance course
This is a one-day course and will cover more advanced
FIMO methods. There will be several projects covered
including: Photo transfer, millefiori canes, blending
and advanced jewellery techniques. Delegates will
learn how to effectively mix and roll clay.

2010 Course Dates:
Monday 8th November
10am-4pm
One Day course - lunch included
Price £47
Guild Members £42
Come and join us for our FREE
Decopatch Demo Day
This FREE taster session will include an introduction into Decopatch.
Learn how to apply Decopatch using the specially designed papers
and glue.
NOTE: Decopatch is a modern form of Decoupage or Paper Mache.
It is the art of decorating an object by gluing coloured paper (and cutouts)
to create unique designs. Layers are sealed with a glue/varnish and the
end result looks like a hand-painted masterpiece.
"FREE Taster Session"
2010 Dates as follows:-
Monday 27th September 2010
WHERE:- Country Love Ceramics Training room
TIMES:- 11am until 1pm
Lunch is not included but refreshments will be
provided.
And............... It's FREE
Limited spaces will be available so do book early
| Guest Tutor Slots |
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We are looking for Guest Tutors to attend our offices for on-site tuition. This service enables Country Love Ceramics to offer customers a varied range of training techniques together with invaluable advice. If you have a pottery or craft related project, or even a product that you wish to showcase to our customers, please e-mail us at sales@countryloveceramics.co.uk |