Bricklaying
Lay the foundations of a flourishing career
At City of Portsmouth College, our brickwork department isn’t just about laying bricks – it’s about building careers. Learn from industry experts with decades of hands-on experience, train in state-of-the-art facilities designed to mirror real construction sites and master the skills that employers demand.
Whether you’re starting your journey or advancing your trade, we provide the perfect foundation for success in a sector that’s shaping the future of the UK.
BRICKLAYING
Subject overview
What's on offer
Everyone knows the importance of having a roof over your head, and solid foundations beneath your feet. If you want to play your part in making those things a reality, you can start at City of Portsmouth College.
Brickwork qualifications open the door to a whole host of career opportunities in the construction industry, and the skills you gain on a course with us will make you a vital member of any team. Your knowledge of the craft, together with the supplemental knowledge you’ll gain – risk management, communication, teamwork are all things you’ll learn from our experts at our North Harbour Campus, in our fantastic hands-on training facilities that are designed to mirror real construction sites. Build your skills with us.
Subject highlights
- strong partnerships with construction companies give you direct access to the industry
- exclusive talks from leading brands in brickwork, like Ibstock, Stabile and Tilgear
- trips to the Brick Museum and major construction projects, to see the trade in action
- learn through dynamic and memorable experiences beyond the classroom.
Course: Level 1 Diploma in Brickwork
- Course Type: Vocational
- Campus: North Harbour Campus
- Attendance: Full-time
- Course Code: P106176
Course: Level 2 Apprenticeship Standard in Bricklaying
- Course Type: Apprenticeships
- Campus: North Harbour Campus
- Attendance: One day a week
- Course Code: P260799
Course: Level 2 Diploma in Brickwork
- Course Type: Vocational
- Campus: North Harbour Campus
- Attendance: Full-time
- Course Code: P106172
Our facilities
At City of Portsmouth College, you’ll learn your trade in an environment that mirrors the real world of modern construction. We’ve invested in state-of-the-art spaces and tools.
Key facilities include
- sustainability hub – train in cutting-edge methods that support a greener future for construction
- professional-grade workshops – organised to the highest standards of health and safety, just like a real site
- industry-standard tools and equipment – work with the same tools trusted by the professionals
- visual learning boards – track progress and access resources designed for all learning styles
- recycling and reuse training – learn how to minimise waste and embrace sustainable building practices.
Virtual tour
Take a closer look at our learning spaces and stand-out facilities with our interactive 360° virtual tour.
A great way to explore our facilities before booking a visit.
“It’s giving me the skills to go on to site, get a job and set me up for life. It is a good course and it’s like a community here.”Josh Reid
Studying: Level 2 Diploma in Brickwork
School: Cowplain School
Careers within the bricklaying industry
Bricklayer
Bricklayers build houses, repair walls and chimneys, and refurbish decorative stonework.
Main responsibilities:
- Measure work areas and set out foundations based on building plans
- Mix and lay mortar, using hand and power tools to cut, shape and lay bricks
- Build straight, level structures using tools like spirit levels and laser levels
- Repair or repoint older brickwork, and create decorative or architectural features
- Maintain site safety and work with other trades to complete projects
Salary range:
£25,000 - £45,000
Brickwork Technician
Brickwork Technicians are specialists in modern masonry construction.
Main responsibilities:
- Ensure structural integrity, building safety compliance and weather resistance
- Install advanced systems like cavity trays, windposts and fire barriers
- Lay damp proof courses to protect buildings from moisture
- Install insulation boards
- Work closely with bricklayers, carpenters and electricians
Salary range:
£32,000 - £60,000
Heritage Restorer
Heritage Restorers specialise in preserving, repairing and restoring historic buildings.
Main responsibilities:
- Inspect historic brickwork to determine its condition and the restoration methods required
- Repair and replace bricks and stone using traditional techniques and materials
- Mix and apply lime mortars, often using historic pointing styles
- Identify and address complex issues like damp or structural concerns
- Ensure all work meets rigorous conservation and health and safety standards
Salary range:
£34,000 - £60,000
Stonemason
Stonemasons care, shape, lay and fit stonework for construction, conservation and restoration.
Main responsibilities:
- Work with materials including sandstone, limestone, slate, marble and granite
- Cut, carve, dress and polish stone using specialist tools
- Build walls, paths and flooring, following detailed design plans
- Restore or repair stonework on modern buildings, historic sites and monuments
- Create or refurbish architectural features, statues, memorials and decorative pieces
Salary range:
£24,000 - £40,000
Construction Manager
Construction Managers organise and run high quality building projects.
Main responsibilities:
- Plan projects with architects, surveyors and engineers
- Hire and coordinate staff, contractors and materials
- Organise work schedules and track progress, deadlines and budgets
- Check the quality of work and resolve any issues
- Oversee health and safety on site
Salary range:
£27,000 - £75,000
Let’s help you shape your future.
UK's million-plus homebuilding target means brickworkers are in demand
Chairman of the Masonry Association of Great Britain, Keith Aldis, says the target to build 1.5 million new homes by 2029 creates an opportunity for ‘transformative growth’. He believes innovation and sustainability will be key – alongside a major drive to attract new brickworkers. With modern construction methods and sustainable practices built in, City of Portsmouth College courses give a new generation all the tools they need for this exciting challenge.
Frequently asked questions
If you have not achieved a grade 4 or equivalent in GCSE maths or English, you will continue to study these subjects alongside your main Bricklaying course.
Strong numeracy and communication skills are essential in construction, from measuring accurately to understanding technical drawings and working effectively as part of a team. Achieving these qualifications supports both your apprenticeship prospects and long-term career progression.
Our experienced tutors bring decades of industry knowledge into the workshop, combining practical expertise with clear and supportive teaching.
You will train in modern facilities aligned with current construction standards, developing techniques that reflect real site expectations. The course emphasises professionalism, accuracy and teamwork, preparing you for employment or further training in a competitive sector.
With dedication and pride in your craft, you can find your brilliance in a trade built on skill and precision.
After completing your Bricklaying qualification, you may progress to a higher-level course, move into an apprenticeship or enter employment within the construction industry.
Many learners build successful careers on site, working on residential, commercial or infrastructure projects. Your qualification provides a strong foundation for long term development within the trade.
No. All core tools and equipment are provided by the College in our specialist workshops.
This allows you to focus fully on developing your skills before investing in your own equipment as you move into employment.
You will receive a kit list at enrolment outlining any required clothing or personal protective equipment.
Having the correct kit ensures you can work safely and professionally from the start of your course.
Yes. You will be required to wear steel toe cap boots, durable work trousers and a plain black t shirt.
Wearing appropriate workwear reinforces site safety standards and prepares you for real construction environments.
Bricklaying courses combine classroom learning with substantial practical workshop time.
Level 1 and Level 2 programmes are predominantly practical, allowing you to develop core techniques and confidence. At Level 3, there is greater emphasis on theory, planning and technical understanding to prepare you for more advanced responsibilities.
Yes. Our dedicated apprenticeship team can help you explore opportunities and connect with local employers.
Moving into an apprenticeship allows you to earn while you continue developing your skills in a real working environment.
Yes. All your study, including maths and English where required, will take place at our North Harbour Campus.
Training in one location ensures consistency, access to specialist facilities and strong support throughout your programme.
Have a question?
Get in touch and our advice and guidance team will be more
than happy to answer any questions you may have and guide
you in the right direction.
