Course overview
This occupation is found in both the new build and refurbishment sectors of the construction industry. Projects vary in size, scale, and duration, ranging from the repair of a garden wall to new build housing and large-scale commercial projects such as office blocks, hospitals and retail developments. Employers and contractors of bricklayers vary in size from small, local family building companies to major home builders and commercial contractors. Bricklayers sometimes choose to specialise in certain types of projects and go on to become masters in their field. Examples include refurbishment work, new build homes or commercial works. There is growing demand for Bricklayers to help meet the need for new homes.
In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with their immediate team and the site management team, which could include a senior or craft bricklayer providing advice and guidance. They would also often liaise with other construction trades such as site carpenters and roofers who could work for their own organisation or another contractor. Site managers again could work for their own company or the main contractor. In the case of smaller projects such as house extensions, liaison with the client, neighbours and officials such as building control surveyors would be expected.
Course information
You’ll be assessed throughout the duration of your course, with an end-point assessment is carried out by an Independent Assessment Examiner.
English and maths qualifications form a mandatory part of all apprenticeships and must be completed before an apprentice can pass through gateway. The requirements are detailed in the current version of the apprenticeship funding rules.
Apply online at www.stockton.ac.uk/apply
The Bricklaying apprenticeship standard encompasses a comprehensive understanding of health and safety regulations, environmental considerations, and principles of construction. Apprentices learn about safety regulations such as Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (CoSHH), fire safety, manual handling, and working at height, along with environmental impact awareness and sustainability principles. They also gain knowledge of building foundations, walls, roofs, insulation, and cavity wall construction techniques, along with bricklaying standards and regulations.
In terms of skills, apprentices develop the ability to comply with health and safety regulations, use personal protective equipment, interpret drawings and specifications, estimate and select required resources, and maintain a safe working area. They also learn to set out and construct brick and block walls, apply joint finishes, mix mortar, measure and cut bricks and blocks, carry out repairs, protect materials, and communicate effectively using construction terminology.
The apprenticeship emphasizes behaviours such as prioritizing health, safety, and wellbeing, considering environmental impact, taking ownership of assigned work, contributing to an inclusive culture, seeking learning opportunities, and working collaboratively within the team and the wider build team. Apprentices are expected to demonstrate accountability, respect diversity, and actively contribute to achieving team goals while promoting a safe and inclusive work environment.
