16-18 Courses, 16-18: Vocational

Bricklaying (Level 2)

Course Overview

Entry requirements

Grade 3 English Language GCSE or L1 Functional Skill English, Grade 3 Maths GCSE or L1 Functional Skill Maths, 4 GCSEs at Grade 3

Course information

The City and Guilds Level 2 Bricklaying course is a practical, one-year, full-time programme for learners aiming for a career in the construction industry as a bricklayer. It builds on the Level 1 qualification and further explores the role of a bricklayer while expanding both knowledge and hands-on skills.

You will develop more complex techniques, including brick and block walling, arch work, pointing, and setting out buildings. Visits to construction sites broaden your understanding of the industry. Assessment includes two online examinations and a portfolio of practical work. The course is designed for students who have achieved Level 1 Bricklaying (or equivalent).

If you have not achieved GCSE grade 4 or above in English and/or Maths, you will study an additional course in the relevant subject. The overall aim is to widen your skills and knowledge to become an employable bricklayer.

Key topics

  • Principles of building (examination)
  • Health and Safety Information (examination)
  • Building solid walling, isolated and attached piers
  • Interpreting working drawings to set out masonry structures
  • Construct cavity walling forming masonry structures
  • Producing thin joint masonry and masonry cladding
  • How you are assessed

    All online examination based units are externally assessed whilst practical units are internally assessed. You will build up a portfolio of evidence which will be internally assessed and verified by the centre and then externally verified by City and Guilds.

  • Why study at NCC?

    • We are Ofsted-rated Outstanding, so you can expect exceptional teaching and support you can trust
    • Expert tutors bring real-world industry experience into every lesson
    • Flexible learning options let you tailor study to your life and ambitions
    • Broad career pathways: from entry level through to professional qualifications
    • One-to-one support with academic advice, wellbeing services and financial guidance
    • Modern, industry-standard facilities: labs, workshops, digital tools and performance spaces
    • Courses co-designed with employers to match local and national job markets
    • Strong employer partnerships offer placements, live projects and networking opportunities
    • A supportive, inclusive community where you can flourish and succeed

    With regeneration projects and trade opportunities booming, New City College is the perfect place to gain the practical skills for a successful career in Construction and Skilled Trades, one of the UK’s fastest-growing industries.

    Through employer partnerships, work placements and apprenticeship pathways, you’ll get real on-the-job experience in trades like engineering, carpentry, motor vehicle, bricklaying, plumbing and electrical installation.

    We’re proud to be one of only 10 Construction Technical Excellence Colleges (CTECs) in the UK, receiving extra investment to deliver cutting-edge training where the industry needs it most. With links to major employers including Vinci, Kier, Mace and SWIFT Brickwork, you’ll leave with the skills, experience and confidence to succeed. And with employers often coming to NCC first to fill vacancies, our students get the inside track on new job opportunities.

Available Campuses

Dates
Start: 01/09/2025
End: 03/07/2026
Start: 01/09/2026
End: 02/07/2027

What Can This Course Lead To

On completion of the Level 2 course you will be guided the Level 3 Bricklaying course. Alternately, you may wish to undertake an apprenticeship programme or consider transferring to the Level 3 Built Environment course (management route).

On successful completion of the Level 2 course you will progress onto the Level 3 Bricklaying course. Or you may wish to undertake an Apprenticeship programme or consider transferring to the Level 3 Built Environment course (management route). Alternatively you could also find work within the industry.

Life At NCC

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Facilities for Students

At New City College we have a range of world-class facilities across our campuses.

Financial Support

There are several ways we can help you cover the cost of your studies.

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