I’m taking my second ceramics class and I know enough to know that the clay you get is directly tied to the firing time and temp. I don’t know the specifics because our instructor provides the clay and programs the kiln herself. But I did find this site to be helpful.
I’m trying to decide if I want to get a wheel and kiln at home - I’m not sure I like it enough to make the investment, but I am having fun in the class.