Bricklayer
Level 2 · IntermediateConstruction and the built environment 2 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
The Bricklayer apprenticeship teaches you to lay bricks, blocks and other masonry to construct walls, chimneys, arches and decorative features in domestic and commercial construction. Apprentices develop accuracy, craft skills and the ability to read drawings and set out work. It leads to senior bricklayer, supervisor or self-employed contractor roles.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Brick bonding patterns and coursing techniques
Mixing and applying mortar to the correct specification
Constructing straight walls, corners, piers and openings
Building arches, soldier courses and decorative details
Setting out work using lines, profiles and levels
Reading construction drawings and cutting masonry
Site safety and personal protective equipment requirements
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Set out and establish datum levels for new brickwork
Mix or prepare mortar to the correct consistency
Lay bricks and blocks to line and level
Build corners and lead out courses accurately
Cut bricks and blocks using angle grinders and splitters
Form door and window openings with correct lintels
Keep the work area clean and tidy at all times
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 2 (Intermediate) - roughly GCSE level. Often open with few or no formal qualifications - a strong first step. Some employers ask for a couple of GCSEs.
What’s next: Typically leads on to a Level 3 (Advanced) apprenticeship.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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