Fired Up Ceramics

General information

We’re a thriving social enterprise providing support and training to adults with learning disabilities and autism. We are part of Brandon Trust, a leading learning disability charity. Our aim is to promote transferable skills and independence to the people that come to our studio. We offer a 'person-centred' approach which focuses on the whole ceramic production from beginning to end. We enable people to become a valued member of their community and get them involved in local events.

Training
As well as learning the craft of ceramics, individuals learn transferable skills for the workplace. These include team work, a sense of pride in the achievement of work, sequencing tasks, self-presentation, time keeping and appropriate communication. We encourage using initiative, either individually or as part of a team, to aid personal development and self-confidence.

Work Skills
Individuals can develop additional skills which are relevant to the world of work, including using a computer, retail skills, plus planning and promoting events.

Work Experience
We regularly run workshops and events with local community groups such as Brownies, schools, toddler groups and social clubs. We hold open sessions in our studio which the people we support are involved in running. We run a weekly hobby class which is led by our team members, allowing people to learn how to paint and glaze items in an inclusive, relaxed setting. When our trainees are ready, a job coach works alongside them to identify appropriate opportunities for employment, and will support them to explore those areas further.

In developing our social enterprise, we aim to:
* Offer people opportunities to grow and develop at their own pace and to their own level.
* Provide an environment that enables development of work, employment and personal skills.
* Promote a sense of responsibility and pride in what is achieved.
*Involve the people we support in the planning, developing and delivery of our service.

Brandon Trust is a registered UK award-winning charity providing individualised support and services to approximately 1,600 adults, young people and children with learning disabilities or autism across Southern England, including London. We believe that everyone should be free to live their life in the way they choose, and our job is to support them to make that happen.