Amanda Spry first enrolled with Hull Training and Adult Education (HTAE) as she was at a crossroads in her life.
A tattoo artist of 16 years and owner of Studio Aces High Tattoo Studio on Newland Avenue, she was lacking in self-confidence whilst juggling a work-life balance as a business owner.
After a client suggested working with clay and recommended a ceramics class at HTAE’s Avenues Adult Education Centre, the then 56 year-old joined a six-week slab‑building course and immediately felt comfortable in the class.
“It was the first time I had worked with clay for years,” Amanda said. “However, from the first session, I felt completely at home.”
That first course sparked something she felt had been missing for a long time and she continued her learning and explored different areas of HTAE’s ceramics courses.
She joined several classes, including beginner sessions and Raku taster days. In 2024, Amanda completed the level 1 NCFE creative crafts ceramics course and, in 2025, she started level 2.
There was a break between the two courses and Amanda said the time away showed her how important creativity had become in her life.
“I was miserable during that break, but I then joined a six-week beginners throwing course and I was asked to join the level 2 course straight away, she added: “I was thrilled to be back.
“The teaching is brilliant and we are always encouraged to experiment by our tutor Lisa Wilson,” she said. “We even have a saying in class – WWLD – What would Lisa do. Lisa has really helped me to develop as an artist.”
Amanda has now been accepted onto a Master of Arts programme for creative graduates, practising artists and creative professionals who want to develop their work further.
It focuses on building an independent creative practice while developing research, critical thinking and project management skills.
When she found out she had been accepted, the moment was emotional.
Amanda left school at 16 with no qualifications and left home soon after. When she was 18, her husband encouraged her to take an O level in art, with her talent immediately obvious.
“When I got an A, I felt validated that I was not stupid,” she said.
She later completed A levels and BTEC courses and began a fine art degree at 27. Life then took her away from education and creativity for many years.
Returning to learning through ceramics helped her reconnect with that part of her life and rebuild her confidence.
“I had a long gap away from being creative. Life just got in the way, I had a family and I was running my tattoo studio,” she added.
“I am so happy to continue my journey as an artist, it’s really helped me to regain my confidence.
“I’m at a place now where my business is established and I have more free time to explore other creative avenues.
Amanda will be almost 60 when she starts her MA. For her, the opportunity means everything.
“It means the world to me that I am doing it,” she said. “I keep joking that I might do a PhD next!”
Amanda’s ceramic tutor, Lisa added: “As soon as Amanda joined us, we could already see her bubbly personality, flair and creativity.
“She emersed herself into the world of ceramics; deciding to take part in our NCFE Ceramics level 1 and level 2 courses which have expanded her experience and knowledge of sculpture, throwing on a pottery wheel, techniques and glazes.
“Amanda’s commitment and passion have led to her creating uniquely expressive, amazing pots and sculptures. Her enjoyment of clay developed into a thirst for more knowledge and exploration for digging and using wild clay.
“We wish her every success on her learning journey and feel privileged to have been a part of its foundation. We are sure that we will be seeing more of Amanda in the future as a working potter in the world of ceramics.”
Amanda’s story shows how returning to learning later in life can open new opportunities and help people rediscover their passion.
If you would like to explore adult learning courses, HTAE offers a wide range of subjects including maths, English, digital skills, art and drawing, ceramics, crafts, creative writing, Spanish, sewing and much more. You can find out more on the HTAE website at Adults – HCC Training