Course details may be subject to change.
Build the foundations for a successful career in brickwork within the construction industry with this hands-on apprenticeship programme.
Learn how to set out and lay building components to construct and repair walls, foundations, partitions, arches and other structures, such as chimney stacks and fireplaces. You may also work on new builds, alterations, extensions, restorations and large commercial developments.
Entry Criteria
You will hold grade 4 or above in GCSE maths and English, or equivalent.
What are the next steps?
You will meet with a course tutor. You will also carry out a number of tasks which will help us assess your suitability for the course.
Please bring evidence of relevant qualifications and proof of ID, e.g. passport or driving license or birth certificate.
Study Aims
This practical apprenticeship will provide you with the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed for a career in brickwork within the construction industry.
Modules Studied
Knowledge
- Health & Safety - hazards, current regulations and legislation including risk assessments, codes of practice and safe working practices, including asbestos awareness and correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Customer Service - the principles of high-quality customer service and respect and maintaining a valued reputation in a working environment.
- Communication - clear, articulate and in an appropriate manner.
- Buildings – including different eras, types of construction methods, insulation considerations, sustainability, facilities management, fire, moisture and air protection.
- Energy Efficiency - the importance and considerations of thermal qualities, airtightness and ventilation to buildings.
- Materials - types of materials, their uses and their value.
- Alternative Construction Techniques - modern methods of construction, rapid build technology, alternative block, masonry, steel and timber based cladding systems.
- Radial and Battered Brickwork - set out and build brickwork.
- Feature and Reinforced Brickwork - set out and build brickwork.
- Fireplaces and Chimneys - select materials and resources required to set out and build fireplaces and chimneys.
Skills
- Preparation of Materials -determine quality and quantities of building material.
- Safe Working
- including when working at heights and safe use of 'disc cutters' and power cutters.
- Working Area - select appropriate tools, equipment and materials.
- Masonry Structures, Radial & Battered Brickwork and Feature & Reinforced Brickwork - set out and build brickwork.
Behaviours
- Positive & Mature Attitude
- Punctual
- Enthusiastic
- Reliable
- Professional
- Responsible
- Meet deadlines
- Proactive not reactive
- Ethical
- Efficient
- Able to use initiative
- Great attention to detail
- Self-aware
- Tidy
- Great oral and written communication
- Keen to make progress with personal development.
Teaching and Assessment
Knowledge Test 40 multiple choice knowledge questions to ensure you have gained an understanding of bricklaying to put into practice, such as Health & Safety. You will have 1 hour.
Skills Test You will be observed by an independent assessor to demonstrate you have developed the knowledge, skills and behaviours required. You will have 12 hours over the maximum of 2 working days.
Oral Questioning To demonstrate your competence and excellence. You may use evidence from your portfolio to answer.
End Point Assessment
The final assessment for the qualification is an End Point Assessment (EPA) which must be passed to achieve the full qualification.
What else?
You may choose to join the Guild of Bricklayers or the Federation of Master Builders.
You could progress to a relevant Level 3 full-time course or apprenticeship at New College Durham.
