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Key details

Course area
Construction
Student types
16 - 18 coursesCourses for 19+ students
Course type
Full-time Further Education course
Course level
Level 2
Start date
Tuesday 1st September 2026
Location
Basford 664 Nuthall Road, Nottingham, NG8 6AQ
Course code
Parent course code:C000138 Child course code: Q000816
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Course introduction

This course is perfect if you’ve already got an understanding of bricklaying and want to gain the right skills at the right level to begin your career in the trade.

You’ll learn the safe working practices that are vital for this industry, plus you’ll develop a good understanding of how to interpret building drawings, what quantities of materials are required and how to build to a plan. You’ll learn about cladding, forming masonry structures and about thin joint masonry.

You’ll learn about cavity and solid wall construction.

You can expect lots of hands-on learning in a workshop environment at our dedicated construction centre.

You’ll cover theory as well as practical modules to build your awareness and understanding of the trade and how you can begin a career as a bricklayer. You’ll get lots of support from experienced tutors.

Programme of Study

When you enrol on your chosen course you will be automatically enrolled onto a Programme of Study (PoS), which will include:

  • A vocational qualification
  • English and maths
  • Personal and social development
  • Independent study
  • Work experience

Programme of Study

When you enrol on your chosen course you will be automatically enrolled onto a Programme of Study (PoS), which will include:

  • A vocational qualification
  • English and maths
  • Personal and social development
  • Independent study
  • Work experience

Enrolling in the Programme of Study (PoS) at Nottingham College offers you the chance to acquire both work-specific knowledge and essential skills. If you haven't yet achieved a grade 4 in English and maths, this programme ensures you will study these subjects, enhancing your progression not only within the college but also in future employment. Additionally, the PoS includes a 30-hour work placement related to your course, providing valuable hands-on experience.

The programme incorporates enrichment activities aimed at developing vital industry skills such as problem-solving, communication, teamwork, collaboration, and the ability to follow instructions. These experiences will enhance your CV, making you more attractive to potential employers. You will also participate in personal development sessions covering current and relevant topics like PREVENT, British Values, and keeping safe amongst others. Your personal development tutor will offer one-on-one support for your wellbeing and development, while a personal tutor will set academic targets to ensure you stay on track to achieve your goals.

Social action projects are another integral part of the PoS, allowing you to support local communities and charities. These projects will help you develop "future ready" skills, including professional behaviour and attitude, problem-solving and commitment, communication and collaboration, self-confidence, individuality and respect, and digital literacy. These competencies are crucial for becoming work-ready.

Your timetable will also include independent study periods, where you will engage in activities such as research, revision, improving digital skills, and working on assignments.

Given the practical nature of the course, consistent attendance is crucial to your success and reaching your full academic potential. We expect full attendance in all classes to maximize your learning and development.

By committing to the Programme of Study at Nottingham College, you are setting yourself up for success both academically and professionally.

Students laying bricks in a workshop

You will be encouraged to participate in a 30-hour work placement while you are studying.

Read more

Course information

1 year

Level 2 City & Guilds Diploma in Bricklaying

You’ll need to have successfully completed a Level 1 vocational qualification in Bricklaying.

You must also have a minimum of a GCSE Grade 3 in both English and Maths or Functional Skills Level 1.

For applicants aged 19+, relevant industry experience may be considered.

Assessment will include multiple choice papers, practical assessments and an external online test.

Choose to follow with further study at college on our Level 3 Bricklaying course, onto an Apprenticeship as a bricklayer or perhaps further study in a different trade.

Students aged 16-18 don't have to pay tuition fees.

If you are aged 19 or over you may still be eligible for funding. Check out our Financial Help pages to find out more!

If you are an EU/EEA or Swiss National, please visit our EU Settled Status scheme page for more information.

Meet Joe & learn how his experience in construction at Basford is building his skills
Basford campus tour with student rep Makai
Meet Jess and learn why she is studying a joinery course at our Basford campus

Careers related to this course

Bricklayers

Potential Earnings

£34,804.47

Average Earnings

£22,458.61

Source: Office for National Statistics' Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE).

Pathways

Building and Construction

People in these occupations manage building projects, inspect structures, and carry out various construction trades: masonry, carpentry, plumbing, electrical installation, etc.

Skills

Mathematics

Using mathematics to solve problems.

Active Listening

Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Speaking

Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Learning Strategies

Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.

Critical Thinking

Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
View more about this career

Economic data for careers is provided by Lightcast and also available through our Career Coach app. Job postings, employment and earnings information is represented at the regional level for the East Midlands.

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