Level 1
Brickwork, Trade
Level 1
Brickwork, Trade
Build the foundations of a successful career in construction with this practical, hands-on brickwork course. You'll develop essential trade skills, gain experience using professional equipment, and learn from industry experts in facilities designed to replicate real construction environments.
Course Overview
The Brickwork Trade course is an excellent starting point if you are considering a career in construction and want to develop the practical skills employers are looking for. Combining hands-on learning with essential theory, this programme introduces you to the core principles of bricklaying while helping you build confidence in a professional workshop environment.
Based at Weston College's South West Skills Campus, you will train in industry-standard construction workshops using professional tools, equipment, and materials. Our experienced tutors have extensive industry backgrounds and will support you as you learn the techniques, safety requirements, and practical skills used across the construction sector.
This vocational programme is designed to prepare you for progression onto higher-level construction courses, apprenticeships, or employment. Alongside bricklaying skills, you will also develop your understanding of construction mathematics, industry terminology, and workplace expectations, helping you build a strong foundation for your future career.
As part of Weston College's Construction Career Excellence Hub, you will benefit from employer engagement activities, industry visits, guest speakers, and opportunities to learn directly from professionals working within the sector.
What will I study?
This course covers the essential skills and knowledge required to begin a career in bricklaying and construction.
Topics include:
• Health and safety in construction • Using hand tools and bricklaying equipment safely • Understanding different types of bricks and construction materials • Mixing mortar and preparing materials • Laying bricks in straight lines and to gauge • Building simple arches • Constructing brick piers and cavity walls • Basic brickwork structures and features • Reading and interpreting construction drawings • Pointing and finishing techniques • Repairing and maintaining brickwork • Construction mathematics and measurements • Developing professional construction terminology
You will spend a significant amount of time developing practical skills in the workshop environment, helping you gain confidence before progressing to more advanced projects.
How will I be assessed?
Assessment includes a combination of:
• Practical assessments carried out in the workshop • Written assignments and knowledge checks • Theory assessments • Observation of practical skills • Portfolio evidence of completed work
You will be assessed on both your practical ability and your understanding of construction principles and safe working practices.
Additional Information
Throughout your course, you will benefit from:
• Training at Weston College's South West Skills Campus • Access to industry-standard construction workshops • Learning from experienced construction professionals • Membership of the Construction Career Excellence Hub • Employer engagement opportunities • Industry visits and site tours • Guest lectures from construction employers • Career guidance and progression support
Throughout the year, you will have opportunities to meet employers from across the construction sector, gaining valuable insight into career pathways and future opportunities.
You may also visit active construction projects and commercial building sites to see professional bricklayers and construction teams at work. Recent learners have visited the St. Modwen development site to gain first-hand experience of modern construction methods and large-scale building projects.
Entry Requirements
There are no formal entry requirements for this course.
However, we encourage you to achieve the best possible grades in English and maths before starting your programme. Achieving Grade 4 or above in these subjects may provide additional opportunities for work experience and progression.
You should also have:
• An interest in construction and practical work • A willingness to learn new skills • Good attendance and commitment to the programme
What can I do after this course?
Successful completion of this course can lead to further study, apprenticeships, or entry-level opportunities within the construction industry.
You could progress to:
• Brickwork Level 2 qualifications • Construction trade apprenticeships • Specialist bricklaying programmes • Additional construction and built environment courses
Future career pathways may include:
• Apprentice Bricklayer • Bricklayer • Construction Operative • General Builder • Masonry Operative • Property Maintenance Operative • Construction Craftsperson • Site Labourer with progression opportunities
This course provides an excellent foundation for developing the skills needed to become a qualified bricklayer and progress within the construction industry.
What do I do now?
Ready to apply? – Please use the ‘apply now’ button on this page. From here you'll be taken through to our application portal.
Want to learn more? – Visit and see the facilities and chat to staff by signing up for our next open event.
