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The Emma Bridgewater Factory Tour & Pottery Experience offers visitors an inspiring opportunity to explore one of Britain's most celebrated pottery manufacturers. Located in the heart of Stoke-on-Trent, the historic home of British ceramics, this immersive workshop combines an informative factory tour with a creative pottery decorating session. Whether you are an experienced ceramic artist or someone looking for a memorable day out, this experience provides an authentic introduction to traditional pottery craftsmanship. Emma Bridgewater has earned an outstanding reputation for producing beautifully handcrafted pottery that celebrates everyday British life. During this experience, visitors gain exclusive access to the working factory, where skilled craftspeople demonstrate every stage of pottery production—from molding clay to hand decorating and firing. Unlike traditional exhibitions, this workshop encourages active participation, allowing attendees to decorate their own pottery piece under expert guidance. Every participant leaves with greater appreciation for British craftsmanship and a unique keepsake created by their own hands. Why Attend This Workshop? The event combines education, creativity, and entertainment into a memorable experience suitable for individuals, families, and groups. Participants enjoy: A professionally guided factory tour Live demonstrations of pottery production Hands-on decorating session Professional decorating advice Opportunity to create personalized ceramics Access to the famous Emma Bridgewater café Excellent photography opportunities Learning about British manufacturing heritage This experience provides an enjoyable balance between learning and creativity while supporting one of the UK's most iconic pottery brands. Explore a Working Pottery Factory One of the biggest attractions is the guided walk through the operational Victorian pottery factory. Visitors witness: Clay Preparation Learn how raw clay is transformed into pottery using traditional manufacturing methods. Moulding Process Watch experienced workers shape mugs, bowls, plates, teapots, and serving dishes. Drying & Finishing Understand the careful preparation before decoration begins. Hand Decorating Observe skilled decorators applying the famous spongeware patterns that have made Emma Bridgewater internationally recognized. Quality Inspection Every product undergoes strict quality checks before reaching customers worldwide. These demonstrations provide a fascinating insight into British craftsmanship that has remained largely unchanged for generations. Pottery Decorating Workshop Following the factory tour, participants enter the vibrant Decorating Studio. This creative session includes: Choosing Your Pottery Select from a range of pottery pieces available within the workshop allowance. Learning Decorating Techniques Expert instructors explain: Sponge printing Brush techniques Pattern placement Color combinations Traditional finishing methods Create Your Own Design Participants are encouraged to develop unique artwork inspired by Emma Bridgewater's famous collections or their own imagination. Professional Glazing After decorating, the pottery is professionally glazed and fired before collection or delivery. The workshop welcomes complete beginners while also providing inspiration for experienced artists. Experience British Heritage Emma Bridgewater represents one of Britain's finest examples of traditional manufacturing. Visitors learn about: Company History The story behind one of Britain's most successful pottery brands. Sustainable Manufacturing Modern production techniques combined with traditional craftsmanship. Skilled Workforce Meet artisans responsible for maintaining exceptional product quality. Handmade Excellence Understand why handcrafted ceramics remain highly valued worldwide. Factory Café Experience Visitors can also enjoy refreshments within the welcoming factory café. Available options include: Traditional Afternoon Tea Vegetarian options Vegan choices Gluten-free menus Fresh cakes Hot beverages Breakfast experiences on selected bookings The café serves meals using Emma Bridgewater pottery, creating a complete brand experience. Who Should Attend? This workshop is ideal for: Art Lovers Explore traditional ceramic decoration. Families A memorable educational activity suitable for older children and adults. Tourists Experience one of Stoke-on-Trent's most famous attractions. Creative Hobbyists Learn new artistic techniques. Students Gain practical understanding of ceramic manufacturing. Learning Outcomes By the end of the workshop, participants will: Understand pottery manufacturing Appreciate British ceramic heritage Learn decorating techniques Design their own pottery Experience traditional craftsmanship Gain creative confidence Discover the importance of handmade production Benefits of Attending Attendees receive numerous benefits including: Educational factory access Practical decorating experience Professional instruction Handmade souvenir Unique photography opportunities Local cultural experience Memorable family activity Creative inspiration Event Schedule Time Activity 10:00 Registration & Welcome 10:15 Factory Tour Begins 11:30 Production Demonstrations 12:15 Lunch / Café Break 13:00 Pottery Decorating Workshop 14:45 Workshop Wrap-Up 15:00 Event Ends Schedule represents a typical experience and may vary depending on booking. Why Stoke-on-Trent? Known as the "World Capital of Ceramics," Stoke-on-Trent has produced pottery for centuries. Visitors can combine this workshop with exploration of: Historic pottery heritage Local museums Artisan studios Shopping opportunities Cultural attractions The city's rich industrial history makes it the perfect destination for anyone interested in British craftsmanship. Booking Information Advance booking is recommended due to limited workshop capacity. Comfortable clothing is advised, and participants should arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start time. The experience is suitable for beginners and includes expert guidance throughout the decorating session. Factory tours operate on selected weekdays, and pottery pieces are professionally glazed and fired after the workshop for later collection or delivery. Summary The Emma Bridgewater Factory Tour & Pottery Experience offers an engaging combination of history, craftsmanship, creativity, and hands-on learning. Visitors gain exclusive access to a working pottery factory while creating their own unique ceramic keepsake under expert guidance. Whether you're passionate about ceramics, interested in British manufacturing, or simply looking for an unforgettable day out, this workshop delivers an authentic and rewarding experience. Final Thoughts The Emma Bridgewater Factory Tour & Pottery Experience stands out as one of the UK's premier creative visitor attractions. From witnessing skilled artisans at work to decorating your own pottery masterpiece, every aspect of the event celebrates British craftsmanship and artistic tradition. Participants leave not only with a beautifully decorated ceramic piece but also with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the heritage of Stoke-on-Trent's world-famous pottery industry. FAQs 1. Is prior pottery experience required? No. The workshop is designed for beginners as well as experienced artists. 2. Is the workshop suitable for families? Yes. It is suitable for families, although factory tours have age restrictions for very young children. 3. Will I take my pottery home immediately? Decorated pottery is professionally glazed and fired before collection or delivery. 4. Is the event wheelchair accessible? Visitors should contact the organizer before booking for specific accessibility requirements. 5. Do I need to book in advance? Yes. Advance booking is strongly recommended because spaces are limited.

The Demystifying the JLDHE Publication Journey webinar is an upcoming professional learning event designed for individuals working in learning development and higher education who want to better understand the process of academic publication. Scheduled for 29 July 2026 from 11:00 to 12:00 BST, the online event offers an accessible opportunity to explore how ideas, professional experiences, research findings and learning development practices can be shaped into scholarly publications. Academic writing and publishing can sometimes appear complicated, particularly for professionals who have extensive practical experience but limited experience with journal submissions. The publication process can involve developing an idea, understanding a journal’s scope, preparing a manuscript, responding to feedback and navigating revisions. This event is intended to help make that journey clearer and more approachable for members of the learning development community. Organised by the Association for Learning Development in Higher Education, the webinar reflects the organisation’s wider role in supporting professional development, research, collaboration and knowledge exchange across the higher education sector. ALDinHE provides opportunities for learning developers to share ideas, access resources, engage with communities and contribute to the development of the profession. Understanding the Purpose of the JLDHE Publication Journey The Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education, commonly associated with the JLDHE, provides an important scholarly platform for conversations connected to learning development and higher education practice. For many professionals, publishing can provide a way to share insights beyond their own institution and contribute to wider discussions about teaching, academic skills, student learning and professional practice. The webinar is particularly relevant to those who have an idea for an article but are uncertain about the next step. A professional may have developed an innovative teaching approach, completed a research project, evaluated a learning intervention or reflected on a significant development in their practice. However, transforming that experience into a structured scholarly contribution can require guidance. This event can help participants understand how to move from an initial idea towards a potential publication. Rather than viewing academic publishing as a process reserved only for experienced researchers, the session can encourage learning development professionals to recognise the scholarly value of their own work and experiences. Supporting Learning Developers Through Scholarly Writing Learning developers work across a wide range of areas, including academic literacy, study skills, assessment support, student transition, digital learning, inclusive education and academic development. Their day-to-day practice often produces valuable observations and insights that can contribute to wider professional knowledge. However, busy workloads can make it difficult to find time for academic writing. Many professionals may also be unsure whether their ideas are suitable for publication or how to position a practical experience within an academic discussion. A focused webinar can help address these concerns by explaining the publication journey in a clear and accessible way. The session may be especially useful for early-career learning developers, practitioners beginning to explore research and colleagues who are considering submitting their first article. It can also benefit experienced professionals who want to refine their approach to publication or better understand current expectations in scholarly communication. From Professional Experience to a Publishable Academic Contribution One of the most important aspects of academic publishing is recognising that valuable research and scholarship can begin with a question arising from professional practice. A learning developer might notice a recurring challenge among students, evaluate a new teaching method or identify an emerging issue affecting academic skills provision. The next step is to explore how that observation can be developed into a focused argument. A strong publication generally requires clarity about the central issue, the evidence supporting the discussion and the contribution the article intends to make. Understanding this progression can help writers move from a broad idea to a manageable and meaningful article. The JLDHE publication journey may therefore be useful for professionals who have accumulated notes, project findings, teaching reflections or research material but have not yet converted those materials into a submission. By understanding the stages involved, participants can approach writing with greater confidence and direction. Why Publication Matters Across Higher Education Academic publishing contributes to the sharing of knowledge across institutions and professional communities. When learning development professionals publish their findings and experiences, their work can help colleagues understand new approaches, identify effective practices and reflect on challenges affecting students and universities. Publication can also contribute to professional recognition. Sharing scholarly work demonstrates a commitment to inquiry, reflection and the development of the profession. For learning developers, this can be particularly valuable because the field continues to evolve in response to changing student needs, new technologies, evolving approaches to assessment and broader developments in higher education. ALDinHE’s wider activities include supporting research, professional development, communities of practice and the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education, making scholarly communication an important part of its professional community. A Useful Opportunity for New and Experienced Writers The webinar can appeal to a broad audience. New writers may benefit from understanding what happens before and after a manuscript is submitted. Those with previous publication experience may gain useful perspectives on improving their approach or developing future ideas. For participants who have never submitted an article, the event can help remove some of the uncertainty surrounding academic publishing. Questions about journal suitability, article structure, peer review and revision are common, and learning more about the overall process can make future writing projects feel more manageable. The online format also makes the event accessible to participants across the United Kingdom and beyond. Attendees can take part without travelling to a physical venue, making it convenient for university staff and professionals with demanding schedules. Connecting Publication With Professional Development Scholarly writing can be an important part of continuing professional development. It encourages professionals to examine their practice, engage with evidence and communicate ideas to a wider audience. The process can also encourage collaboration between colleagues from different institutions. An event focused on the JLDHE publication journey may help participants consider how their professional interests connect with broader conversations in learning development. A single idea can potentially develop into a research question, a collaborative project, a reflective article or a contribution to a wider scholarly discussion. The event may also encourage attendees to think about the role of publication in their own professional journey. Whether their goal is to share practice, contribute to research or develop a stronger academic profile, understanding the publishing process can be a valuable first step. Building Confidence Through Knowledge Sharing One of the most important benefits of professional events is the opportunity to learn from the experiences of others. Publishing can sometimes feel like an individual activity, but the wider academic community provides opportunities for collaboration, feedback and support. Webinars such as this can help create a more supportive environment by encouraging participants to discuss questions about writing and publishing. Learning developers can gain confidence by understanding that publication is often a process of development rather than a single perfect submission. The event is also consistent with ALDinHE’s broader aim of encouraging knowledge sharing and professional connections across learning development communities. Its events programme includes webinars, communities of practice, professional development sessions and other opportunities for colleagues to exchange ideas. Who Should Attend This ALDinHE Webinar? The event is particularly relevant to learning developers and higher education professionals who are interested in academic writing and scholarly publication. It may also be valuable for academic skills tutors, educational researchers, teaching and learning professionals and university staff who are developing research ideas. Professionals who have recently completed a project or evaluation may find the session useful when considering how to share their findings. Similarly, colleagues who have written conference papers, internal reports or reflective pieces may be able to explore how those materials could be developed further. The event can also be relevant to individuals who want to understand more about the role of the JLDHE and the contribution it makes to learning development scholarship. By attending, participants can gain a clearer understanding of how publication can support both individual professional development and the wider higher education community. Preparing for the Event Participants may benefit from thinking about their own writing or publication questions before attending. For example, they might consider whether they have a research idea, a teaching innovation, a project evaluation or a professional experience that could be developed into a scholarly contribution. Having a specific idea in mind can make the webinar more practical. Participants can compare their own situation with the publication journey discussed during the session and identify the next steps they may need to take. It may also be useful to prepare questions about article development, journal publishing, peer review and scholarly writing. A focused approach can help attendees make the most of the one-hour online session. A Valuable Event for the Learning Development Community The Demystifying the JLDHE Publication Journey webinar provides a timely opportunity for professionals to explore academic publishing in a supportive higher education context. By focusing on the journey from an initial idea to a potential publication, the event can help make scholarly writing more understandable and accessible. For learning developers, publication offers a way to contribute to professional conversations, share evidence-informed practice and help shape the future of learning development. The webinar can therefore serve as a useful starting point for individuals who want to develop their writing, explore research opportunities or understand more about publishing within their field. Taking place online on 29 July 2026, the event offers an accessible opportunity for professionals to connect with current discussions around learning development scholarship. Those interested in academic writing, professional inquiry and higher education research should consider checking the official ALDinHE event information and registration requirements before attending.

The Cashroom Roadshow 2026 arrives in Edinburgh to provide an essential deep-dive into the regulatory environment governing legal finances in Scotland. This in-person event is meticulously designed for Cashroom Managers, solicitors, and legal accounts staff who carry the significant responsibility of managing firm finances while ensuring total compliance with the Law Society of Scotland’s Practice Rules. As the legal landscape becomes increasingly digital and subject to rigorous oversight, staying updated on the nuances of the Accounts Rules is not just a professional benefit—it is a regulatory necessity. The program focuses on the practical application of the Accounts Rules, offering a clear roadmap for record-keeping and the prevention of financial irregularities. Attendees will receive direct guidance from Law Society experts on what to expect during a compliance inspection. The session covers the full lifecycle of cashroom management, from daily bookkeeping entries to the complexities of year-end certification and the reporting of breaches. By attending, professionals will gain a better understanding of how to protect their firm’s reputation and financial integrity. Beyond the technical rules, the roadshow addresses the evolving risks of cyber-fraud and internal vulnerabilities. The speakers will analyze recent trends in financial crime targeting the legal sector, providing actionable strategies to fortify internal controls. This is a rare opportunity to engage in person with the Society’s financial compliance team, allowing for the clarification of specific queries in a collaborative environment. Participants will leave with renewed confidence in their ability to manage a compliant and efficient cashroom, ensuring their practice remains robust against the challenges of 2026.