Case Study

Refurbishment of Pottery Kiln at The Grove School, Market Drayton

In May 2024, The Grove School in Market Drayton was the proud recipient of a newly refurbished pottery kiln, thanks to the efforts and contributions of local fundraisers with both project and financial support from the PMI Trust Fund. This was made possible by leveraging the fund’s extensive network of contacts within the Ceramics Industry.

The existing kiln at The Grove School had unfortunately failed and was deemed beyond economic repair. Sarah Clarke, the Teacher of Art and Design at the school, emphasized the importance of the kiln in the art and design curriculum, making its replacement a priority. Purchasing a new kiln would have involved a significantly higher cost and long lead time during which pupils would have no means to fire their ceramic artwork.

PMI Trust Fund played a crucial role in sourcing and part-funding the project. By utilizing its connections within the Ceramics Industry, PMI was able to locate a suitable kiln thanks to Oak Ceramics Rugeley and then provide the necessary financial support to cover a significant part of the refurbishment at Newcastle International Kilns, Newcastle u Lyme- more thanks to NIKilns’ Pete Cassidy. This resulted in a much lower total cost and a faster turnaround for the school- 6 months from the initial approach from Grove to commissioning and first use.

The kiln now provides students with the invaluable opportunity to engage in pottery and ceramics, enriching their educational experience and fostering their creative talents.

The successful refurbishment of the pottery kiln at The Grove School is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the PMI Trust Fund and its network within the Ceramics Industry. This initiative not only restored a vital educational resource but also highlighted the importance of community support in enhancing educational facilities and opportunities.