Bricklayer (Level 2 Standard)

The construction sector is the driving force behind the UK economy, employing three million people and contributing 6.4% of GDP. Not only that, the construction industry is central to delivering the homes, schools, hospitals, energy and transport infrastructure our society demands. A career in the construction industry is like no other. Bricklaying is a core function within the construction sector, particularly the house building sector. The Government has a target to build significantly more new homes over the coming years and therefore the demand for bricklayers has never been higher.

Bricklayers lay bricks, blocks and other types of building components in mortar to construct and repair walls, foundations, partitions, arches and other structures e.g. chimney stacks. They might also refurbish brickwork and masonry on restoration projects. The range of sites and projects that bricklayers will work on include large commercial developments, new builds in housing, alterations, extensions and restorations. A bricklayer may work one-on-one or on larger jobs where their bricklaying group (gang) may work on a particular section of a building alongside other bricklaying gangs as well as other trades.

Applicants aged 16–18 who have not achieved GCSE Maths and English at grade 4 (C) or above must work towards and attempt Functional Skills Level 2 in both subjects as part of their apprenticeship programme.

For applicants aged 19 and over, this requirement is optional and can be removed if both the apprentice and employer agree, with the decision formally documented at enrolment.

• Hands-on Training & College Learning: Apprentices work on active construction sites while attending college for one day a week. They learn to lay bricks, blocks, and mortar under the guidance of skilled tradespeople, gaining practical experience in both new builds and refurbishment projects.

• Wide-Ranging Curriculum: The course covers bricklaying techniques, mortar preparation, damp-proofing, and structural alignment. Apprentices also develop skills in interpreting design plans, using hand and power tools, and applying health and safety standards on-site.

• Specialist Pathways: Apprentices may focus on areas of interest such as heritage restoration, commercial builds, or sustainable construction. Some choose to specialise in ornamental brickwork or modern methods like premanufactured wall systems, depending on employer needs.

• Career-Ready Qualification: Upon completion (typically 24 months), apprentices earn a Level 2 qualification and are ready for roles such as bricklayer, masonry operative, or construction labourer, with progression routes into site supervision, advanced craft roles, or self-employment.

For a comprehensive understanding of this bricklaying programme and what it entails, please click here.

This bricklaying Apprenticeship is taught at our London Road Campus on a day release basis once a week. If you need to complete your functional skills, then this will be covered at College in a block week release. In addition, you will be visited at your workplace regularly by your assessor, to assess your practical skills and knowledge as well as review your progress with your employer.  You will be required to sit an End Point Assessment, towards the final stages of your programme, to ensure you have obtained the skills, knowledge and behaviours required to do your job effectively.

Typically, this brickwork Apprenticeship will take 30 months to complete.

To be an apprentice, you will need an employer who can offer you a specific role relevant to this apprenticeship and release you for your training. Once you have an employer in place, you can apply online. If after reading this fact sheet, you are still undecided about the course most suitable for you, please drop into one of our advice events, ring the Apprenticeship Team on 01743 653444 or email apprenticeships@shrewsbury.ac.uk