What does a bricklaying apprentice do?
Bricklayer apprenticeships give you the chance to lay bricks, blocks and other masonry materials under the guidance of experienced bricklayers. This could include the following:
- Site preparation – clearing the work area, preparing ground
- Material handling – move and organise bricks, blocks, mortar and other materials to the work area
- Mortar mixing – to the correct consistency as this is crucial for the stability of whatever you are building
- Reading plans to understand the layout and specifications of the project
- Measuring and cutting bricks and blocks
- Techniques of laying such as checking alignment using tools like sprit levels and plumb lines
- Using tools including trowels, hammers and cutting equipment
- Repair and maintenance of existing brickwork, including repointing and replacing damaged bricks
In the classroom you will have theory lessons to learn all about
- Health and safety to prevent accidents and injuries
- Building regulations
- Construction techniques
Key skills to be a successful bricklayer apprentice
- Physical strength and stamina – you will be required to lift, bend and work in various weather conditions
- Hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity – precise movements and good control are essential for laying bricks accurately and efficiently
- Attention to detail – bricks must be properly aligned
- Numeracy and mathematical skills – you must be able to calculate measurements, angles, quantities and mix ratios precisely to avoid material waste and ensure structural integrity
- Ability to read an interpret drawings – essential for correct construction
- Knowledge of building codes and safety regulations – including safe use of tools and working at heights
- Teamwork and communication – bricklayers often work in teams and must coordinate with other trades, suppliers and supervisors effectively
- Organisation and time management skills – to plan work, prepare materials and maintain a clean and safe environment at all times
The training lasts for 2 years and you will spend 13 weeks at our bespoke training centre at Catherine St in Aston (B6 5RS) which is a 10 minute walk from Aston train station and close to bus routes.
During the 13 weeks you will have theory and practical lessons to teach the knowledge, skills and behaviours required to become a good bricklayer and you will also develop your maths and English capability.
You will complete a programme of wider learning including topics such as how to stay safe, understanding British values, how to eat healthy on a construction site, internet safety etc.
You will learn about careers in construction and plan your own career path.
Your employer will also spend some time with you on site teaching you knowledge, skills and behaviours, and you will be expected to complete a portfolio of evidence of what you are learning on site.
You will meet with your employer and tutor every 12 weeks during the apprenticeship to review your progress and agree targets to complete your apprenticeship on time.
End Point Assessment
At the end of your training your employer and your tutor will meet with you to agree a time for you to complete your end point assessment where an independent assessor will test you on the following areas
Knowledge test – a multiple choice test of your groundwork knowledge
Skills test – a 2 day practical assessment of your bricklaying skills
Professional discussion – based on your portfolio of evidence
What happens after the apprenticeship?
After the apprenticeship, the apprentice is normally offered a development year where they will be given time to experince different roles and given support to progress into these roles in the future.