Bricklayer

About Bricklayer

Brick laying is a very old profession and ideal for the sort of people who want to be hands on. Bricklaying is the foundation of building houses, and with the government setting larger and larger targets to, meet demands there has never been more need for bricklayers. Bricklaying apprenticeship does not only teach you how to lay bricks but also how to repair walls (plastering), put up partitions, how to build larger commercial blocks etc...

Type of apprenticeships

Bricklayer apprenticeship start are level 2 and only go as high as level 3. Bricklayer apprenticeships tend to be taught at colleges with practical experience taught working in a company. If you do not possess any GCSE in English or mathematics then you can do a level 1 traineeship course, this does not take to long depending on how quickly you learn or progress (6 weeks - 12 months). The company you work with will effectively determine what you will specialise in (i.e. building new buildings, renovating existing buildings etc...)

During the apprenticeship you will be examined in various ways:
- Written exam;
- Multiple choice exam;
- Interviews;
- Practical assessment;
- Portfolio of work done.

Entry Requirements

At least 16 years of age and living in the country you are applying to. Higher apprenticeships will require you to complete the lower apprenticeships or have something of equivalent level (GCSE).

GCSEs that suit this Apprenticeship

Regardless of what GCSEs you do you can always go down various career paths, but certain GCSEs will give you an advantage and some will be required. Below is a list of GCSEs which will help you with accounting apprenticeship:

• English Language and Literature *(required)
• Mathematics *(required)
• Design and technology
• Art

A-levels that suit this Apprenticeship

Bricklaying apprenticeship does not require A-levels as it only goes up to level 3 apprenticeship and not higher.

Duration of Degree

The duration of the apprenticeship course will vary depending on the level you are in, below is a list of various levels and their normal duration:

• Level 1: 6 weeks - 12 months
• Level 2: 2 - 2.5 years
• Level 3: 2 years

Who This Apprenticeship Suits?

Every apprenticeship will be enjoyable and suit different personalities, below is a list of characteristics and personalities which will enjoy a bricklaying apprenticeship:

• Enjoy working hands on
• Enjoy building
• Enjoy being out instead of an office environment

Module /Topics

Bricklaying has many topics that need to be covered, below is a list of the topics that will be in the curriculums of each level.

Level 1: This is more of a training course to help you catch up to the level required to apply for level 2 apprenticeship. This essentially gives you qualification equivalent to GCSE (especially math and english) and develop your computer skills.

Level 2: At this level you will learn Construction techniques;

• How to set out and build fireplaces and chimneys
• Brickwork (cavity walling and block laying)
• Preparation of materials and work area
• Site health and safety
• Efficient communication with colleagues and clients
• Energy Efficiency and materials

Level 3: At this level you will learn more advanced techniques in the construction industry and aim to develop your managerial skills so you can move into more senior roles.

Industry Sectors

Bricklaying allows you too apply to different industries, below is a list of them:

• Residential construction (house, flats etc...)
• Commercial construction (factories, plants, warehouses etc....)
• Infrastructure construction (roads, stations etc...)

Types of Jobs

Bricklaying apprenticeship allows you to apply to a wide variety of roles, below is a list of them:

Level 2:

• Bricklayer

Level 3:

• Foreman
• Sire manager

Work hours and Salary

As a bricklayer graduate you will usually work 30-35 hours a week (level 2) and 37.5-40 hours a week (level 3). The salary you will get will vary on your experience and which sector you go into, below is the average expected salaries:

• Level 2: usual pay minimum wage, which is £5.95 from ages 16-18 years, £6.56 from ages 18-20 years and £8.36 for ages 21 and over. There is also a national living wage at £8.91 for ages 23 and over. Once you area qualified bricklayer you can earn £25,000 - £40,000;
• Level 3: the minimum wage for a 16-18 year old is £5.95. However, since you will have working experience and will be training for managerial role your salary will tend to be much higher £30,000 - £35,000 and once qualified can earn £40,000 - £50,000. The salary earned will be more if you start your own company, but to could also be lower if you do not run the business effectively.