Bricklaying
Why Study Bricklaying ?
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You’ll gain a strong foundation in bricklaying. You focus on hands-on training, allowing you to develop tangible skills that are directly applicable on construction sites. This practical approach not only enhances learning but also prepares you for real-world tasks.
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If you enjoy working with your hands and seeing the tangible results of your labor, bricklaying is super rewarding. You’re literally building something that lasts — walls, fireplaces, arches, buildings!
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Bricklayers are always in demand in the construction industry. Whether it's building houses, commercial buildings, or restoring heritage sites, skilled bricklayers are essential — meaning steady work opportunities.
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Benefit from networking opportunities, employer partnerships, site visits to live building projects, masterclasses run by industry professionals and exclusive work placements which often lead to job and apprenticeship offers with leading construction companies
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This course teaches you the essential skills employers want, including:
Workplace health and safety
Reading quantities and plans
Communicating effectively on-site
By the end, you’ll be ready to take on an apprenticeship or entry-level job in construction.
Prepare for success
Learn more about your course.
Get ahead of the game and feel confident about what’s coming next. Get a feel for your course by trying the activity below.
Recommended YouTube Videos
How to lay bricks for a beginner Watch here
The Basic Bricklaying Skills Watch here
The Bricklayers Channel Watch here
The Truth About Cavity Wall Ventilation Watch here
Discover where your course can take you
Not sure what jobs your course could lead to?
Explore career options linked to the subject you’ve applied for. From real-world job roles to industry insights, you’ll see how your studies at New City College can help you build a successful future.
" Studying Bricklaying at Rainham has been a great experience. The tutors really know their stuff, and the practical workshops have given me the confidence to work on real sites. I feel ready to start my career in the industry.”
Top tips
Get hands-on as much as you can
Bricklaying is all about practical skills, the more you build, the better you’ll get. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes in college or on-site. Every wall you lay teaches you something new.
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Ask questions
Bricklaying isn’t just bricks and mortar, it's also teamwork. Being able to talk clearly with site supervisors, other trades, or even clients will set you apart. Listen well, ask questions, and learn from others.
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Show up on time, every time
In construction, reliability is everything. Turning up early, being ready to work, and staying focused makes a big impression. It shows you're serious — and people will remember that when it’s time to offer apprenticeships or jobs.
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FAQs
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Bricklaying is the job of building walls and other structures using bricks and mortar. A bricklayer carefully places each brick in the right position, making sure everything is straight and strong. They use tools to spread mortar (a type of cement) between the bricks to hold them together. Bricklaying is an important skill in construction and helps create buildings, houses, and even garden walls. It takes practice, patience, and good attention to detail.
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You can expect to study topics including:
Health and Safety Information
Quantities
Communication with others
Building methods and construction technology
Basic block laying skills
Basic cavity walling
Building basic masonry structures up to damp proof course level
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Absolutely. On successful completion of the Level 1 course you will progress onto the Level 2 Bricklaying course. Alternatively you may wish to undertake an apprenticeship programme.

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New City College has been rated Outstanding by Ofsted (March 2025) — the highest grade possible.
Inspectors praised our inclusive culture, exceptional teaching, strong student support, and inspirational leadership. We’re proud to be the largest college in the UK to achieve this top rating — and even prouder of what it means for our students.
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