BRICKLAYING - LEVEL 2 DIPLOMA (SEPT 2025 START)
The Level 2 Bricklaying Diploma, is designed for those interested in a career as a trades person working with bricks and mortar. This qualification is ideal for those looking to continue the development of their skills and knowledge of bricklaying. You will learn about the construction industry, including the principles of constructing buildings, the types of information used in building design and construction, health, safety and environmental issues faced on construction sites, and how to communicate with others on the job. You will also learn practical skills specific to bricklaying, including building solid walling, isolated and attached piers; interpreting working drawings to set out masonry structures, as well as constructing cavity walling forming masonry structures.
Please note: This course starts in September 2025. You may apply now; however, applications will not be processed until enrolments open in April 2025. A course advisor will reach out once we can proceed with your application.
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
On this course you will study a range of modules including:
Construction Health & Safety
- Health and safety legislation.
- Hazards and risks within the construction industry.
- Risk mitigation.
- Understanding and following method statements.
- Stakeholder responsibilities.
- Policies and procedures and the role of the Health and Safety Executive.
Understanding the Principles of building construction, information and communication
- Identify a range of building materials used with the construction industry
- Knowledge of environmental considerations to improve efficiency
- Knowledge of construction foundations
- Understand the of internal and externals walls, calculating areas, components used in internal and externals walls. Identify materials in mix ratios used in mortar
- Knowledge of different types of floors
- Communication in the workplace
Building solid walling, isolated and attached piers
- Construct one-brick walling and provide decorative features to piers and solid walls.
- Build isolated and attached piers
- Measuring, marking and cutting bricks
- Carry out pointing and joining techniques
Set out masonry structures
- Interpret information to setting out requirements
- Use working drawing to establish the location, shape and size of masonry structures
- Identifying and using the appropriate tools and equipment, hand or mechanical methods.
Build cavity walls
- Erect cavity walls to a specification
- Fix insulation
- Build arches
- Set out positioning of openings in cavity walls
Construction Health & Safety
- Health and safety legislation.
- Hazards and risks within the construction industry.
- Risk mitigation.
- Understanding and following method statements.
- Stakeholder responsibilities.
- Policies and procedures and the role of the Health and Safety Executive.
HOW WILL I BE TAUGHT?
As a Level 2 Diploma learner at Preston College, you will have a dedicated, workspace where you can develop your practical skills. The workshops replicate a live working environment, using Industry grade materials. This provides a real flavour of what life in the construction industry is really like.
We recognise that as an adult learner you may have busy work/personal and financial commitments to balance alongside your studies; as such, we deliver a flexible model that integrates three hours per week of practical study that will be delivered on campus 1 night per week, plus an additional 4-8 hours per week of guided independent on-line study. This approach offers a flexible and convenient way for you to gain the theoretical knowledge alongside your technical skills.
You will have access to a full scheme of work, on-line resources and self-assessments via our learner management service CANVAS. You will receive a full induction on how to navigate this platform together with guidance from your tutor on completing your mandatory on-line modules.
If you prefer to undertake some of your on-line study in college or require some additional learning support, you have access to a weekly tutorial that will help you keep on-track with your studies.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Assessment methods vary from module to module but may include end of module tests, practical assessments and tutor questioning.
To successfully achieve the qualification, a total of 64 credits must be achieved from a selection of mandatory and optional units.
WHAT CAN I DO NEXT?
On successful completion of this Level 2 course, you can progress onto a work-based qualification once you have gained employment in the industry. Upon completion you can apply for a CSCS skills card that will enable you to work on site as a skilled worker in your chosen trade.
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE I NEED TO KNOW?
As our Construction Centre reflects industry working practices, you will be required to purchase and wear suitable Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including work boots and overalls (or old clothing).
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
To join this course you must already hold a Level 1 Bricklaying qualification or have at least two years employment experience in industry as a labourer.
To undertake this course, you must hold a Level 1 Diploma in Bricklaying or have substantial experience in industry. We will assess your skills and experience by asking you to complete additional questions on application, followed by a practical skills assessment for you to demonstrate your industry experience.
You will also be required to be working at a minimum of Entry Level 3 in English. If you do not hold qualifications in this subject, a short assessment may be required.