New training programmes for the refractories sector launched at The AMRICC Academy
Monday, 16 March 2026
Two training programmes designed to meet the specific needs of the refractories sector have been launched at The AMRICC Centre.
Developed in consultation with industry experts, the courses offer a Foundation and Intermediate level experience and are designed to complement each other as part of a learning journey across a range of sectors including the ceramics, advanced ceramic, metal, glass and cement industries.
The ‘Introduction to Refractories’ programme is delivered through e-learning, with online access available over a 12-month period.
Providing a comprehensive overview of refractory materials, their role in high-temperature industrial processes and the principles behind their design and application, the course gives participants an understanding of the refractory value chain, from raw materials to finished products, and explores the critical factors that influence performance and durability.
The next step in the learning journey is ‘Refractory Materials and Applications Training,’ which is delivered in person at The AMRICC Academy, and Lucideon, in Stone, Staffordshire.
Including live demonstrations of the state-of-the-art facilities within the Refractories Centre of Excellence at Lucideon, the two-day course provides practical experience to complement the theoretical foundation built in the introductory programme.
Subjects covered include refractory material properties, chemistry, and global market trends, as well as manufacturing processes for shaped and unshaped products, application environments and performance challenges.
Refractory testing methods and their purpose are also featured, along with design principles, including thermal and structural considerations, as well as inspection techniques and root cause analysis for refractory failures and best practices for installation, quality control and start-up procedures.
Dr Cathryn Hickey, CEO of The AMRICC Centre, said: “Both of these courses offer an exciting opportunity for the refractories sector to benefit from training that is purpose-built for their industry.”
More details about the two programmes can be found at Introduction to Refractories – Training Course | AMRICC Academy and Refractory Materials & Applications – Training Course | AMRICC Academy
The AMRICC Academy is a new educational hub launched to give scientists and engineers the future skills needed to grasp opportunities in the global, multi-billion-pound ceramics sector.
Its focus is to provide next-generation training and development programmes that address emerging industry challenges and tackle a skills gap in both traditional and advanced ceramics.
The facility is located within The AMRICC Centre, a £10 million development which stands as the physical outcome from the Midlands Industrial Ceramics Group’s (MICG) £18.27 million research programme, funded by Government under UK Research and Innovation’s flagship Strength in Places Fund.
Overall financial sponsor Lucideon, a founding partner of the MICG, has championed The AMRICC Centre, investing millions of pounds and providing access to industry expertise, and being actively involved in the new AMRICC Academy.
To find out more visit Ceramic Industry Training Courses | AMRICC Academy