Bricklayer - Intermediate Apprenticeship - Level 2

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 will have its own set of entry requirements. You should understand these before making an application. Individual prior attainment will always be carefully considered when planning an apprenticeship programme.

You will need to be aged 16 years and over to be eligible for an apprenticeship programme. As this is a work-based qualification you must be employed in a relevent 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 the main college number and ask for the apprenticeship team to find out how we could help you.

As an applicant, you will undertake assessment in both maths and English prior to enrolment to ascertain current working levels which will aid the creation of an individual learning plan towards achieving maths and English at level 2 if not already achieved.

If you have passed maths and English GCSE or equivalent you will be required to evidence this with certificates which may result in exemption from undertaking the maths and English functional skill qualification within the apprenticeship framework.

Please note that as an apprentice you are required to demonstrate ongoing improvement in both maths and English even if you are exempt from the tested element.

Study programmes - essential skills for employment

If you're a student between the ages of 16 and 18 (or 19 to 25 with an EHC Plan) we want to make sure you have the best possible chances of landing an awesome job once you finish college.

Students who haven't achieved a grade 4/C in GCSE maths or English to continue studying these subjects while you're here with us.

By doing so, you'll be building a strong foundation of skills that will significantly boost your employability in the future.

Think of it as a chance to supercharge your knowledge and abilities. You'll be equipped with the tools necessary to tackle the world beyond college with confidence. Plus, we'll be right here to support you every step of the way.

In addition, to help you gain essential skills for employment, all students aged 19 and under and studying a full-time course with us will take part in our study programmes.

How will I be assessed?

Blended delivery method including day release at college, work based assessment and online learning including: reflective accounts, witness statements, activity based work books, presentations, professional interview/discussion and work based projects.

What does the course lead to?

Following the successful completion of the intermediate 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

Career opportunities

There isn't currently career information listed for this course.