Job Description

Bricklayers build and repair walls inside and outside of properties, they will make sure that the walls are waterproof, weatherproof and secure. This could be a house, a school, a bridge, a tunnel or other building constructions.

(You might also consider: Builder, Labourer, Painter and Decorator)

Entry Requirements

There are various ways in which you can get into this job role and the entry requirements can vary depending on what you choose to do:

A college course

You can take a college course like a:

Level 1 Certificate in Construction Skills
Level 2 Diploma in Bricklaying
Level 2 Diploma in Trowel Occupations

These courses will teach you some of the skills needed for the job and can help you to find a trainee position with a building company.

You'll usually need:

2 or fewer GCSEs at grades 3 to 1 (D to G), or equivalent, for a level 1 course
2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course

The following local colleges offer courses in Bricklaying/Construction:

Or your local 6th form may offer a relevant course

An Apprenticeship

You could start by doing an intermediate bricklaying apprenticeship.

This will usually take 2 years to complete. You'll do on-the-job training and spend time with a college or training provider.

You'll usually need:

some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship

Work

You could start as a construction site labourer and take training on the job to become a bricklayer. You'll also need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a building site.

Career Path and Progression

With experience, you could become a construction site supervisor, or move into related areas like estimating or apprentice training.

You could also specialise in heritage work, stonemasonry, or set up your own business.

Related careers you may be interested in:

Estimator
Scaffolder
Construction labourer
Stonemason
Steeplejack

Required Skills

Practical person who has the ability to work carefully and accurately and follow technical plans
the ability to work well with others
A good awareness of health and safety as you may sometimes have to work at heights
knowledge of maths
patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations

Salary Range

£15,000 to £35,000

Bricklayer