Bricklaying (Construction) Level 3 Diploma Apprenticeship

Overview

This course will help learners to develop various skills and techniques to allow them to build brickwork and blockwork of all shapes and sizes. Students will learn how to set walls and buildings, following instructions from foremen and architects.

This course offers a valuable opportunity for individuals interested in the art of bricklaying to develop their craftsmanship and technical expertise in constructing and repairing brickwork structures.

The Level 3 Apprenticeship in Bricklaying combines practical training with theoretical study to provide a comprehensive educational experience. Apprentices will work under the guidance of experienced professionals, gaining hands-on experience on construction sites.

They will learn about different types of bricks, mortar mixes, and construction methods, as well as health and safety practices related to bricklaying.

Bricklayers are outdoor workers who work both at height and below ground level. The work is physical, so a good level of fitness is an advantage – however, the modern construction industry’s safety regulations and lightweight materials mean that most people can undertake the work of a bricklayer.

Entry Requirements

To be eligible to enter ApprenticeshipsNI 2021 funded Level 2 / Level 3 apprenticeship provision, a person must meet all of the following criteria:

• Have attained the upper limit of Compulsory School Age:

  • A 16 year old who is entitled to leave school after the statutory leaving date of 30 June, or a 17 year old who leaves school/Further Education (FE) College during the month of June, will be permitted to enter ApprenticeshipsNI 2021 from the first Monday in July.

  • A school leaver/FE College leaver who is 17 years old and who leaves before 1 June can be admitted to ApprenticeshipsNI 2021 at any time after leaving school or College.

  • Have achieved a Level 2 in Brickwork/Bricklaying.

• Be either an existing employee in a new job role that requires a substantial amount of learning and skills development, or a new employee in (or about to take up) a permanent paid employment offer, including a specific start date as detailed on the Delivery Agreement and confirmed by the employer.

• Be employed by a company that has a base in Northern Ireland and is registered as an employer with HMRC and be contracted to work a minimum of 21 hours per week (which includes day release/off-the-job directed training) with one employer. Directed training must be paid as part of the apprentice’s contracted hours.

• Have the potential to successfully complete all the requirements of the appropriate Level 2/Level 3 apprenticeship framework.

• Meet any health requirements (e.g., colour vision) specific to the occupation of their choice.

• Have achieved any necessary entry academic qualifications (e.g., GCSEs) determined by the relevant sector for the apprenticeship and approved by the Department.

• Pass any entry tests specified by the relevant sector/employer and approved by the Department.

• Applicants with a previous level 2 or 3 qualification in the same occupational area may not be eligible for participation in a similar occupational area at the same level. This will require approval by the Department.

Employers may apply their own criteria during recruitment. However, only those potential apprentices who are assessed as capable / committed to achieving the full requirements of an apprenticeship framework will be recruited.

Attendance at Individual or Group Pre-Entry Advice Sessions (IPEAS and GPEAS) may be required. These interviews may take place either on campus, via telephone or video call (Microsoft teams) and will play an important role in the selection of all courses.

What Will I Study?

Modules

• Health, safety and welfare in construction

• Principles of organising, planning and pricing construction work

• Repair and maintain masonry structures

• Constructing radial and battered brickwork

• Carrying out decorative and reinforced brickwork

• Constructing fireplaces and chimneys

How Will I Be Assessed?

Assessment in the Level 3 Apprenticeship is based on a combination of theoretical written job knowledge questions and end of unit multiple choice tests.

Apprentices will demonstrate their competence through workplace observation, witness testimony, practical bricklaying exercises and end of unit synoptical test pieces.

Careers

Upon successful completion of the Level 3 Apprenticeship in Bricklaying, apprentices will have acquired the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue a rewarding career as a bricklayer in the construction industry.

Graduates may choose to work for construction companies, building contractors, or become self-employed bricklayers. They may also have opportunities to progress to supervisory or managerial roles within the construction industry.