The Bricklaying Diploma programmes have been specifically developed for delivery in a training environment using simulated conditions. Working within our fully equipped training workshops you will work with real materials and on projects you would expect to find in industry. Practical and theory sessions are combined to provide you with an understanding of basic and more advanced bricklaying techniques. Assessment is based on the student showing what they can do as an individual through the completion of all the requirements of the qualification.

Practical sessions are combined with traditional classroom activities and computer-aided learning; these enable production of a portfolio of evidence. Students work towards passing end of unit tests, practical assessments and an online test set by the awarding body. In addition to your main programme, you will study English and maths. You will also engage in GEM and GAP activities to develop your English, maths and employability skills.

All the units of training must be completed by each student. All outcomes must be achieved during the training programme.

Level 1 Bricklaying Diploma units may include:

• Carrying out Blocklaying Activities
• Carrying out Bricklaying Activities
• Carrying out Cavity Walling Activities
• Contribute to Setting Out and Building of Masonry Structures up to Damp Proof Course
• Health, Safety and Welfare in Construction
• Principles of Building Construction, Information and Communication

Developing from the Level 1 programme, Level 2 units and activities include:

• Interpreting Working Drawings to Set Out Masonry Structures
• Producing Thin Joint Masonry and Masonry Cladding (Optional)
• Building Solid Walling, Isolated and Attached Piers
• Construct Cavity Walling Forming Masonry Structures
• Health, Safety and Welfare in Construction
• Principles of Building Construction, Information and Communication

In addition to this there are seven theory units to complete, each of which have an internal knowledge test, plus an end of year exam on all seven units of study.

Level 3 Bricklaying Diploma units may include:

You will learn about several complex topics in practice. These include; obtuse angle work, acute angle work, axed arches, chimneys, fireplaces and flues, curved walls on plan, convex and concave walls, decorative panel work, quetta bond reinforced walling, battered buttress work and, also, motiff projections .

Alongside this you will learn the theory:

• Repair and Maintain Masonry Structures
• Constructing Radial and Battered Brickwork
• Carrying out Decorative and Reinforced Brickwork
• Constructing Fireplaces and Chimneys
• Health, Safety and Welfare in Construction
• Principles of Organising, Planning and Pricing Construction Work

Assessment is based on the student demonstrating competence as an individual through the completion of all the requirements of the qualification. The Qualification comprises: General Core units, occupation specific units, practical assignment, and online testing of knowledge. To gain the Bricklaying Diploma, you must be successful in all units and practical assignments.

Level 1: 3 GCSEs (grades A*-G/9-1), including English and Maths, and an interview.

Level 2: Satisfactory completion of the Level 1 Diploma and via interview/progression board. Candidates must be deemed to have the potential and opportunity to successfully gain the qualification.

Level 3: Satisfactory completion of the Level 2 Diploma or an ICA in Trowel Occupations and via interview candidates must be deemed to have the potential and opportunity to successfully gain the qualification. A progression interview with Course Leader.

Level 1: Employment opportunities as a trainee bricklayer/improver. Further vocational training and assessment leading to NVQ Level 2.

Level 2: Further vocational training and assessment leading to a Bricklaying Diploma Level 3.

Level 3: Site foreman or charge hand, in a gang of bricklayers. Master craftsman. Progression could lead to higher education courses at Colchester Institute, in Site Management.