Vocational Brickwork
Vocational • Level 1
Vocational Brickwork
Vocational • Level 1Type of LearningSchool Leaver
Course CodeA3563
Study ModeFull Time
Duration1 year
Awarded ByCity and Guilds
Location ByBurnley College
SHARE COURSE
Have a question? Get in touch!
Or call us on 01282 733373
About the course
Start your journey in brickwork with our Level 1 Introductory course, designed to build confidence, safe working habits, and solid hands-on skills for the construction industry. You will learn how to set out simple walls, lay bricks and blocks accurately, maintain consistent bond and joint profiles, and produce neat finishes. Alongside practical work, we will cover the theory : health and safety, essential building principles, basic materials science, tools and equipment, site communication, and reading simple drawings.
You will: follow health and safety rules and use PPE; select and maintain basic tools; set out work areas and keep good housekeeping; build simple corners and piers to set tolerances; construct small cavity sections with DPC/DPM; carry out pointing and finishing; check plumb, level, line and gauge; fit basic insulation to simple drawings; position lintels for small openings under supervision; and explain weather protection and sustainability.
Evidence comes from observed practical tasks and short knowledge checks mapped to unit outcomes and industry standards. You will receive regular feedback and personalised targets so you know exactly how to improve your speed, accuracy, and finish.
By the end of the course, you will have a portfolio of evidence, improved employability skills, and a clear pathway forward. Typical next steps include a Level 2 Brickwork programme, a construction apprenticeship, or entry-level site roles such as labouring with a progression plan into bricklaying. We will support you with CV guidance, employer talks, and site visits so you can see how your new skills translate into real opportunities.
Type of LearningSchool Leaver
Course CodeA3563
Study ModeFull Time
Duration1 year
Awarded ByCity and Guilds
Location ByBurnley College
Start Date/s
02/09/2026
Entry Requirements
2 GCSEs at Grade 3 or above, or a relevant Entry Level qualification.
Modules
Course Modules
Health, Safety and Welfare in Construction
Introduces essential health and safety practices, including site responsibilities, hazard awareness, and safe working procedures.
Principles of Building Construction, Information and Communication
Covers basic construction methods, terminology, drawings, and the importance of clear communication in the workplace.
Contribute to Setting Out and Building of Masonry Structures up to Damp Proof Course
Provides experience in preparing, setting out, and constructing simple masonry structures up to damp proof course level.
Carrying Out Bricklaying Activities
Develops practical skills in handling tools and materials to construct basic brickwork to required standards.
Carrying Out Blocklaying Activities
Focuses on laying blocks accurately and safely, building confidence in larger masonry work.
Carrying Out Cavity Wall Activities
Introduces the principles and practical skills needed to construct small sections of cavity walling.
Assessment
Students will be assessed on a range of practical skills with a practical end test. Additionally students will sit a range of modular exams linked to each of the theoretical elements of the programme.
Careers & Progression
On successful completion of this course you may progress to
a Level 2 course or to an Apprenticeship in a trade related area. When you have
completed your further studies other courses that are available include Level 3
Construction courses and University study. Careers that this course may lead to
include a range of roles within the Construction industry, or to the of study
professional qualifications that could lead to becoming a site-supervisor, or
could lead to a career in construction management.
Additional Details
Equipment Needed
You will be reqired to provide appropriate safety boots.
Equipment Supplied
The college will provide all essential equipment to support the course, including bricklaying trowels, spirit levels, profiles, line pins, bolsters, hammers, jointing tools, tape measures, mixing equipment, mortar boards.
Enrichment Activities
You will have the opportunity to enter the national
competition Skillbuild. Success may lead to entry into international
competition at Worldskills. You will have the opportunity to visit a range of
manufacturing and industry sites to see the development and use of state of the
art equipment and materials. You will also benefit from a wide range of guest
speakers.
SHARE COURSE
Have a question? Get in touch!
Or call us on 01282 733373
