Changes to the PMC Diploma as of January 1st 2010
Anew name for this qualification
With the introduction of at least two types of Bronze Clay, three types of Copper Clay and now the development of Steel Clay we realise that the Metal Clay World is moving forward in wonderful new ways.
Our Diploma in PMC Proficiency was rolled out before any of these developments were on the horizon and it is now necessary for us to update the training and rename the qualification. Don’t worry though; any of the Grades you have passed or anyone already holding the MCSJ Diploma won’t have to do anything.
From January 1st we will be changing the name of the Diploma in PMC Proficiency to a more brand neutral name; the Diploma in Silver Metal Clay Proficiency.
The projects will remain constant and still cover the previous curriculum.
We will be working primarily with PMC but students will now also handle Art Clay for a couple of projects.
A new Grade 4 option
As you probably know, the Diploma consists of four separate Grades and the 4th currently focuses on good teaching practice. Some of our students want to undertake this in-depth training and gain their Diploma but they already know they don’t want to teach classes. With this in mind, we have developed another option for the Grade 4 of the Diploma, which will focus on Design and Construction.
Design and Construction Grade 4
During this two-day class you will learn about the principles and elements of design. With this information in mind you will construct an advanced project to your own design and take part in a group critique of each person's work. This class will suit students who want to progress to a higher level in their artistic and technical abilities.
There will still be a written test of your silver clay knowledge on both types of Grade 4.
If you have already completed your Diploma and fancy adding Design and Construction to your qualifications simply sign up for our new Grade 4 on line. You will get an additional printed Grade 4 Certificate as well as a second printed Diploma in Silver Metal Clay Proficiency for your wall.
Students currently in the process of studying for their Diploma have the opportunity to achieve one or both of the Grade 4 qualifications.
The Higher Metal Clay Diploma
This is still the most in depth training available anywhere in the world and is the only qualification to encompass different brands of clay. We don’t mind which brand you use-we focus on quality, understanding, good practice and design.
To gain the HMCD you will need to successfully pass
- Grades 1-4 of the Diploma in Silver Metal Clay Proficiency (either Teaching and/or Design Construction Grade 4)
- Art Clay Certification Level 1 and 2
- Introduction to Bronze or Copper Clay (or when it becomes available Steel Clay)
So if you achieve this qualification you will have a thorough understanding of working with PMC, Art Clay and at least one of the non-precious metal clays. You will have an understanding of how to teach classes effectively and/or you will learn basic design principles in order to construct advanced projects. Your metal clay knowledge will also be verified by our written test to prove you know your stuff!
Study with the best.
The school is based near St Austell in Cornwall, UK and all classes run in our well equipped workshop.