Accessibility, wellbeing & studio information
Working with clay can be a tactile, absorbing, and often calming experience. Many people are drawn to ceramics because it offers a hands-on way of making that can be both engaging and grounding. People experience this differently, and what works well for one person may not for another.
Over the years, we’ve welcomed people with a wide range of physical and mental needs into our studios. Our team is knowledgeable, welcoming, and creative, and we aim to support people in understanding whether our classes or memberships are likely to suit them.
Accessibility varies across our studios, and ceramics is a physically demanding activity. Because everyone’s needs are different, we encourage open conversations in advance so we can talk things through and help you make an informed decision about whether attending a course or becoming a member at The Kiln Rooms feels right for you.
Our approach to accessibility
We operate four ceramics studios, and access varies between locations. Peckham Levels offers slightly better access than our other studios and is our preferred location for people with higher access needs.
Studios are managed so that numbers remain safe and comfortable. This allows staff to support people effectively while also managing the space and others using it.
Ceramics may involve lifting and wedging clay, repetitive movements, cleaning work areas, and reaching shelves or materials. Even where a studio is physically accessible, some aspects of making may remain challenging for some people.
Staff aim to support people where reasonably possible, for example by assisting with lifting clay, wedging, cleaning, or reaching shelves, depending on availability and safety considerations. Any support provided is shared alongside support for others in the studio and cannot be exclusive or guaranteed. Staff are not able to provide personal care, toileting assistance, or medical support.
Pottery while pregnant
Many people have attended our classes or been members while pregnant, including into the later stages of pregnancy. As with most physical activities, comfort levels can vary from person to person and may change over time.
Some people find wheel throwing becomes less comfortable later in pregnancy, depending on posture and how they choose to work. One of the strengths of working with clay is that equipment and techniques are often adaptable, and there are many different ways of making that don’t involve the wheel.
Pottery studios use a range of materials, and many people are comfortable working with clay and most standard studio materials during pregnancy. Some people choose to be more selective about working with certain coloured glazes or coloured clays, and we aim to support people in making choices that feel right for them. Gloves and tools are available in the studio, and our team is happy to talk through alternative ways of working if someone prefers to avoid particular tasks or materials.
We also encourage anyone who is pregnant to work at a pace that feels right for them and to take care around heavy lifting and over-stretching. Our team is always happy to help where possible.
Everyone’s circumstances are different, so if you have questions or would like to talk things through in advance, please get in touch and we’ll do our best to support you in deciding what feels appropriate.
Access to equipment in our studios
Our studios are working spaces, and equipment heights are broadly standard but can vary.
Pottery wheels are generally set at around 55cm. We have a range of adjustable stools and seating options. Benches are typically around 75cm high. It is possible to work standing, seated, or on higher stools depending on the task.
If you have particular requirements around seating, height, or posture, letting us know in advance allows us to talk through what might work best.
Getting here
Peckham
Peckham Rye station does not currently have step-free access, although works are underway to install lifts and ramps. There are a number of bus routes that stop close to our Peckham studios, and multiple paid parking options nearby.
Farringdon
Our Farringdon studio is approximately 200 metres from Farringdon station, which is a Category A step-free station. A number of bus routes also serve the area. There is limited parking nearby, but it is possible to drop off and pick up directly outside the studio entrance.
Get in touch
If you’re unsure whether our studios, courses, or memberships are right for you, the best next step is to email us with a bit of information about your needs:
We’re always happy to have a conversation and help you make an informed decision.