Learning Outcome 1: Identify own strengths and develop areas for growth
I made the decision to explore pottery making as part of my CAS journey. As a novice, I originally found it difficult to create and shape clay into the appropriate forms. But I soon saw that my attributes in this quest were patience and tenacity. I was adamant about honing my abilities and picking up from my errors. My skill to make complicated ceramic pieces started to get better with practice and direction from my pottery instructor. This event taught me the significance of self-evaluation and the necessity of viewing obstacles as chances for personal development.
Learning Outcome 2: Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process
I eagerly accepted the challenges that pottery brought. The pottery wheel was one of the biggest obstacles to overcome. My hands and foot needed to work together precisely, and I had to have a solid grasp of how clay behaved. I first had trouble centering the clay and giving it the desired form. But with time and persistence, I was able to acquire the required abilities. I discovered how to modify and improve my methods until I was able to turn exquisite clay pieces. This experience has taught me that difficulties are not hurdles, but rather chances to learn new things.
Learning Outcome 3: Planning and initiation of activities
Embarking on this pottery journey required careful planning and initiation. I researched local pottery studios, identified a suitable class, and registered for it. I also had to manage my time effectively to balance my schoolwork and other commitments with my pottery classes. This experience reinforced the importance of setting goals, creating plans, and taking proactive steps to achieve them.
Learning Outcome 4: Commitment to and perseverance in activities
Pottery required a lot of dedication and patience. Making pottery is a labor-intensive procedure that demands patience. Even though there were times when I was discouraged by my lack of advancement, I persisted. I continuously practiced, went to all of the classes, and asked for help when I needed it. Through this engagement, I learned the importance of commitment and the joy that comes from witnessing progress made through steadfast work.
Learning Outcome 5: Demonstrate the skills and recognize the benefits of working collaboratively
Although pottery is sometimes thought of as a personal art form, in my pottery class, I also got the chance to work with others in my class. We collaborated on group projects from time to time, discussed ideas, and benefited from one another’s knowledge. I learned the value of communication, cooperation, and respecting different viewpoints via collaborative ceramic production. It improved my capacity for collaborative work, which I can use in a variety of spheres of my life.
To sum up, learning about pottery through the CAS programme has been a life-changing experience for me. It has helped me recognise my talents, acquire new abilities, confront obstacles head-on, plan and start activities, commit to my objectives, and recognise the benefits of working with others. These experiences have not only increased my personal development but have also given me priceless life lessons that I may apply in the future. For me, pottery has evolved into more than simply a creative outlet; it also serves as a window into my quest for personal growth
