Foire aux questions
Do I need prior ceramics experience to join the course?
No prior experience is required. Our training programs are designed to welcome absolute beginners going through a career change as well as those with hobbyist or professional experience. Progression is tailored to each student’s pace and personal project.
If needed, we will assess your current skill level and needs together.
How can I fund my training (CPF, France Travail, etc.)?
As our institution is Qualiopi-certified, several funding options may be available depending on your situation: Mon Compte Formation (CPF), France Travail (AIF), Transitions Pro, or FAFCEA for self-employed professionals.
For international applicants: If you live outside France, private self-funding with installment plans is available. In some cases, your home country’s regional mobility grants, European funding, or professional development programs may also apply.
Learn more about funding options and selection procedures.
What is the pace of the course, and are the studios accessible outside of class hours?
The course is fast-paced and combines theoretical lessons with intensive practice (32 hours per week, from Monday morning to Friday noon). Outside of these hours, the studios, classroom, and library are accessible 24/7 (including evenings and weekends).
Each student has a dedicated workstation to practice without limits and make the most of their training time.
The instructor is present for all class hours, delivering several theoretical and practical lessons, as well as demonstrations, every day.
What are the success rates and career prospects after the training?
Our training programs effectively prepare students for the CAP Tournage en céramique exams as well as the professional title (APOCI). Thanks to rigorous supervision, our success rate is excellent.
While salaried employment is virtually non-existent in the French ceramic sector—leading most students to set up as independent makers—our training also equips you with skills applicable to employment opportunities abroad or in design fields. Find out more about what our former students do.
What about bilingual teaching ?
Instruction is provided in French, with fully bilingual courses available upon request in English, Italian, or German.
Ariane is well used to this setup, which brings added value and a rich learning synergy to the entire group.
At this time, this option is available for in-person training only.
What equipment and raw materials are provided during the program?
Each student has their own fully equipped workstation (potter’s wheel, bats, small hand tools, precision scale).
You benefit from unlimited access to clay, raw materials, shared machinery (pugmill, slab roller), and a specialized library with over 1,500 books.
For obvious safety reasons, kilns are operated under the instructor’s supervision (with rare exceptions).
Can I film during classes to review the throwing lessons ?
In-person students have access to the online learning platform, which includes audio resources, written course materials, and a wide range of videos to practice endlessly, both during and after the training program.
There is no need to film, allowing you to focus entirely on the demonstration.
What does the daily educational support look like?
Supervision includes regular one-on-one progress reviews, as well as a key collective milestone every Friday morning: the “Educational Review” (Synthèse pédagogique).
This interactive discussion around a creative theme allows students to share what they have learned, discuss any difficulties, and finish the week with peace of mind.
What kind of support is offered after the training ends?
Setting up a studio shouldn’t feel like taking a leap in the dark. We offer a minimum of two years of technical support and guidance (video call appointments, individual coaching) to help you during your setup. In practice, this support network and assistance remain accessible to our alumni without any time limit. Find out more about what our former students do.
I often have back pain—can I learn to throw without pain?
Through improper posture, many potters suffer from pain that worsens over time—particularly in the back and neck. These tensions are simply unnecessary.
The throwing technique we practice and teach at the Ecole des Céramistes focuses on freedom of movement. It aims for relaxation and long-term body care.
This precise, efficient throwing technique naturally adapts to large pieces, porcelain, creative exploration, production work, and beyond. Designed around fluid movement and bodily respect, it keeps pain at bay.
Even when throwing large pots, there is no need to look like Schwarzenegger or put strain on your back.
It is all about harnessing the wheel’s momentum and aligning it with your own force. The key lies in finding the right balance of pressure.
Accessibility for People with Disabilities
The school is located in the hamlet of Régagnas, surrounded by nature. Access can be a bit bumpy, but it is feasible for individuals with physical disabilities, including wheelchair users. The studio features an access ramp, and an adapted workstation can be set up based on individual needs and our resources.
We routinely welcome students with disabilities—whether officially recognized or not, and of any nature. To ensure proper preparation for their arrival, we gather all relevant information prior to admission to determine together if training at our school is viable and if we can implement the necessary adjustments (via questionnaire, interview, etc.). We are committed to making sure this process remains entirely non-intrusive and non-discriminatory.