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Bricklayer Apprenticeship - Level 2
IMPORTANT
The following information is simply detailing the apprenticeship training course and is not a live vacancy to apply for. Please click the link below to view our current apprenticeship vacancies.
Overview
Bricklayers lay bricks, blocks and other types of building components in mortar to construct and repair walls, foundations, partitions, arches and other structures eg chimney stacks.
The range of sites and projects that bricklayers will work on include: large commercial developments, new builds in housing, alterations, extensions and also refurbish brickwork and masonry on restoration projects.
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.
What will I study
- Health and safety hazards, current regulations and legislation including COSHH/risk assessments and understanding the importance of method statements. Codes of practice and safe working practices, including asbestos awareness and correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
- The principles of high quality customer service. Establishing the needs of others (colleagues, customers and other stakeholders). Respect the working environment including customers’ properties, impact on other trades and the project. Gaining and keeping a valued reputation in industry with clients, colleagues and industry representatives such as suppliers and manufacturers.
- Different communication methods. How to communicate in a clear, articulate and appropriate manner. How to adapt communication style to different situations.
- Different eras, types of construction methods, insulation considerations, sustainability, facilities management, fire, moisture and air protection. Fireplaces and chimneys. Damp proof courses and the use of brick ties. An awareness of the location of trees and services and their impact on foundation types.
- The importance and considerations of thermal qualities, airtightness and ventilation to buildings.
- Types of materials, their uses and their value. Types of bonds and their uses. Concrete and drainage. Cost awareness and environmental considerations/waste awareness e.g. surface water management and recycling.
- Modern methods of construction, rapid build technology, alternative block, masonry, steel and timber based cladding systems.
- Set out and build brickwork, including complex arches and surrounding brickwork, curved on plan, concave and convex brickwork and battered brickwork.
- Set out and build brickwork, including complex decorative features, obtuse/acute angle quoins and reinforced brickwork.
- Select materials and resources required to set out and build fireplaces and chimneys using materials such as hearths, plinths, flue liners, chimney pots and other modern methods.
- Entry requirements
Each apprenticeship programme has its own set of entry requirements. You should understand these before making an application. Individual prior attainment will be carefully considered when planning an apprenticeship programme. You will need to be aged 16 years and over and meet residency criteria to be eligible for an apprenticeship programme.
As this is a work-based qualification you must be employed in a relevant role and have a contract of employment to cover the duration of the apprenticeship programme.
Here at West Nottinghamshire College we have a recruitment team that can help you to find the right opportunity. Call 0800 121 8317 or emailThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to find out how we can support you.As an applicant, you will undertake assessments in both maths and English prior to enrolment to ascertain current working levels and will continue to maintain skills in both subjects throughout your apprenticeship. If you possess maths and English GCSE or equivalent, there is a requirement for this to be evidenced which may result in exemption from undertaking the maths and English functional skill exam alongside the apprenticeship.
- Assessment
In the UK, apprentices are assessed through a combination of on-programme assessment and a final Apprenticeship Assessment (formerly called the EPA). Here’s a clear breakdown of what you can expect:
- On-Programme Assessment (During Your Apprenticeship)
Throughout your apprenticeship you will complete ongoing assessments to show you’re developing the required knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs). These may include:
- Workplace observations
- Your assessor or tutor may watch you carry out tasks in your normal job role.
- Assignments or written tasks
- Some apprenticeships require reports, reflective journals or knowledge-based tasks.
- Professional discussions
- A structured conversation with an assessor about what you’ve learned and how you apply it.
- Portfolio of evidence
- You’ll collect proof of your competence—such as work products, photos, witness statements, or project work.
- Training reviews
- Regular progress reviews with you, your employer and your training provider.
These activities help build your confidence and prepare you for the final assessment.
2. Gateway
When you, your employer and training provider all agree that you’re ready—and you’ve met all mandatory requirements (e.g., maths/English qualifications if needed)—you’ll pass through Gateway.
This simply means you are ready to sit the Apprenticeship Assessment.3. Apprenticeship Assessment (AA)
The Apprenticeship Assessment is carried out by an independent assessment organisation and varies depending on your apprenticeship standard. It may include:- Practical observation
- Demonstrating real work tasks or scenarios.
- Knowledge test
- A multiple-choice or written exam.
- Professional discussion
- A conversation with an independent assessor exploring your role, competence and experience.
- Project or assignment
- Some apprenticeships require a work-based project followed by an interview.
- Portfolio-based interview
Your portfolio supports the discussion but is not assessed on its own.
You will receive a grade—usually Pass, Merit or Distinction, depending on the standard. You should remember that, upon taking your apprenticeship assessment, it is possible at this stage to achieve a Fail grade. If this happens, you will be offered the opportunity to retake the failed element.
4. Completion
Once you pass your Apprenticeship Assessment, you will be awarded:
Your apprenticeship certificate
Any industry qualifications linked to your standard (mandatory elements) - On-Programme Assessment (During Your Apprenticeship)
- Progression
Following the successful completion of this apprenticeship there is the opportunity for further development using other apprenticeship standards, depending on how your role has evolved and the potential to work towards career progression opportunities.
- Careers
- Qualifications gained
Bricklayer - Intermediate Apprenticeship
Disclaimer
Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information on the website is correct, some details may be subject to change. West Nottinghamshire College reserves the right to make amendments to the courses, dates, fees or other details, and to make cancellations or changes if numbers are insufficient. In the unfortunate situation that we have to cancel a course we will refund your fees in full, but we regret we are not able to offer any refund if you withdraw from your course or fail to start, and you will be liable to pay any outstanding fees that may be due.