UCLan graduate to Britain's top potter

Clay has always been a part of Matthew’s life. As the son of two pottery teachers, Matthew first touched wet clay at just 14-weeks old when his parents made a tiny handprint on a family teapot.

Initially, Matthew began training as a pilot but changed course and decided to follow his passion of working with clay. In 2010, Matthew began studying for a BA (Hons) Ceramics degree at UCLan where he worked with a range of methods including studio, industrial and glaze, before specialising in studio ceramics in his final year.

After graduation, Matthew completed a PGCE and secured a role as a Ceramic Artist in Residence and Art Teacher at Giggleswick School in North Yorkshire. In this role, Matthew made and exhibited his own work alongside teaching his students. 

In 2016, Matthew was crowned the winner of TV's The Great Pottery Throw Down. Talking about the show, Matthew said: “I am extremely passionate about the craft and if my involvement maybe helps open it to a new generation, then I am thoroughly committed.”

In 2019, Matthew completed an MA in Product Design at Royal Gordon University and he recently completed his Advance HE (formerly HEA) fellowship.

Currently, Matthew works part-time as a lecturer at Gray’s School of Art on the 3D Design course. Alongside this, Matthew runs his own practice exhibiting work and delivering guest lectures across Europe.

Reflecting on his achievements, Matthew said: “Winning the show was amazing. But going into teaching is a fantastic achievement for me, it's a career for life. I love meeting new people and watching their creativity develop."