Craft Bricklayer (Level 3 Standard)

This apprenticeship is ideal for individuals who enjoy practical, hands-on work, have an eye for detail, and want to master traditional and modern bricklaying techniques. It suits those interested in construction, heritage restoration, or architectural craftsmanship. Learners should be comfortable working outdoors, at heights, and in varied weather conditions. Craft bricklayers develop expertise in building arches, chimneys, and decorative masonry, creating durable, visually striking structures in both new builds and refurbishment projects.

For Level 3 apprenticeships, learners are generally required to have GCSE Maths and English at grade 4 (C) or above prior to enrolment. However, for applicants aged 19 or older, this requirement may be waived at the discretion of the employer and training provider, depending on the role and individual circumstances.

• Hands-on Training & College Learning: Apprentices work on complex construction projects on-site while attending college for one day a week. They learn to refine advanced bricklaying techniques, collaborating with experienced tradespeople on tasks such as decorative masonry, structural detailing, and restoration work.

• Wide-Ranging Curriculum: The course includes advanced brickwork, heritage techniques, curved wall construction, and structural integrity. Apprentices also learn to read technical drawings, manage materials, and apply rigorous health and safety standards on-site.

• Specialist Pathways: Learners may specialise in areas such as ornamental brickwork, conservation masonry, or commercial façade systems depending on employer need and learner interest. Employers may support additional training in lime mortars, stonework, or modern construction technologies.

• Career-Ready Qualification: Upon completion (typically 18 months), apprentices earn a Level 3 qualification and are prepared for roles such as craft bricklayer, masonry specialist, or site technician, with progression into supervisory roles, heritage restoration, or self-employment.

For a comprehensive understanding of this 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. 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 Apprenticeship will take 18 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