Bricklaying Level 1
Start Date: 2nd September 2026
- Length 1 Year
- Study Full Time
- Location West Lancashire College
More about the course
Our Bricklaying Level 1 course is ideal for school leavers who are looking to build a career in one of the UK's most respected and in-demand construction trades. You'll develop the practical skills and industry knowledge needed to build, repair and maintain a wide range of structures, while gaining experience in essential bricklaying techniques.
Whether you're new to the trade or looking to enhance your skills, this course provides a strong foundation for progression into employment, further training or a Bricklaying apprenticeship. You'll learn in a practical environment that reflects industry standards, helping you develop the confidence and expertise needed to become a skilled tradesperson.
Entry requirements
- 4 GCSEs at Grade 2-9, including English and/or Maths
What will I achieve?
If you successfully complete this course, you will receive a Level 1 qualification in Bricklaying
What will I learn?
- Health, safety and welfare in construction
- Principles of building construction, information and communication
- Carry out bricklaying activities
- Carry out block laying activities
- Carry out cavity walling activities
- Contribute to setting out and building of masonry structures up to damp proof course
What experience will I have?
- Community projects such as The Birchwood Garden, Birch Green Skate Park, VIY and St. James Catholic Primary School
- Hear from industry experts who are passionate about their subject area
- Work experience with local and regional employers such as Keir and Keepmoat
- Trips to industry and trade shows
- Skills competitions, including The Lancashire Colleges' Skills, World Skills UK and NCG Skills
- Links with employers
- Progression to Apprenticeships
How will I be assessed?
- Assessment is an online core unit examination
- Awarding body phase test
- Portfolio of knowledge
Where can I progress?
Upon successful completion of the course, students may wish to progress onto our Bricklaying Level 2 course.
Course costs
If you are 16-18 years old, you do not have to pay course tuition fees*.
If you need information on any financial support that may be available to you with fees or study costs on this course, please contact our Student Services team who can offer advice and assistance on accessing any financial support that may be available.
*This is subject to attendance.
Contact our team
Meet our Bricklaying students and tutors
Lee Moorhouse
Head of Curriculum for Advanced Construction and EngineeringWith 34 years of experience in the construction industry and 12 years as a Carpentry and Joinery Lecturer, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my role. I am passionate about supporting learners and helping them develop the skills, confidence, and understanding needed to succeed in their chosen careers. I look forward to continuing to grow and support the department, contributing to its ongoing success while helping to deliver NCG's vision and strategic goals towards 2030. Sharing my industry experience and supporting students to achieve their full potential are among the most rewarding aspects of my role.
Alan Finnetty
Bricklaying LecturerI am a passionate Brickwork lecturer with over 40 years of experience in the construction industry. Throughout my career, I have developed a broad range of knowledge and skills while working on the construction of large residential developments, hospitals, and schools for recognised construction companies. In addition to my industry experience, I have over 15 years of experience in education, teaching and mentoring both 16 to 18-year-old learners and adult students. I hold qualifications in tutoring and assessing Brickwork at Levels 1, 2, and 3, as well as Internal Quality Assurance (IQA) and assessment qualifications. Throughout my career in further education, I have worked with a diverse range of learners, including students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and school groups. I am committed to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment that enables every student to develop their skills, achieve their qualifications, and progress towards a successful career in the construction industry.
Anthony Dickinson
Bricklaying LecturerI have been a lecturer at West Lancashire College for 10 years. Prior to joining the College, I worked in the construction industry for more than 28 years, developing a broad range of specialist knowledge and practical skills that I now bring to the classroom. I am a dedicated and knowledgeable lecturer with a passion for education and a strong commitment to student success. My extensive industry experience enables me to provide valuable insights and real-world applications, helping students develop a deeper understanding of their subject and prepare for careers within the construction sector. I design and deliver curricula that align with both course objectives and the needs of learners. To support active learning and cater to different learning styles, I incorporate a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, interactive discussions, case studies, and hands-on practical activities. I take great pride in helping students develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to achieve their goals and succeed in their chosen careers.
Dylan
Bricklaying Alumni StudentI chose the Bricklaying course at West Lancashire College because it would help me work towards securing an apprenticeship in the industry. It was a fantastic, hands-on course with plenty of practical experience, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Alan was an excellent tutor throughout my time at the College, and I am very grateful for his support, guidance, and dedication to helping students succeed.
Owen
Bricklaying Alumni StudentI completed my Level 2 course in Bricklaying, successfully achieving my practical units in line with construction standards, as well as earning a distinction in my Health and Safety and Principles of Building City & Guilds online exams. The support at West Lancashire College was excellent—my tutor, Alan, was always available to assist me and my classmates with every aspect of the course. I am now hoping to secure an apprenticeship or progress onto the Level 3 Bricklaying course.
Henry
Bricklaying Alumni StudentI decided to study Bricklaying because the course looked interesting in the prospectus. One of the highlights of my time at West Lancashire College was receiving the Rising Star Award at The Lancashire Colleges' Skills Competition. Achieving this recognition was a proud moment for me, and it was made possible by the fantastic support, guidance, and encouragement I received from my tutor, Alan. The course helped me develop my practical skills, confidence, and understanding of the construction industry, preparing me for future opportunities within the sector.
Leon
Bricklaying Alumni StudentI chose Bricklaying because there is a shortage of skilled workers in the trade, and I recognised the strong career opportunities it could offer. I particularly enjoyed the practical aspects of the course, which allowed me to develop my skills and gain valuable hands-on experience. Another highlight was the two-week industry placement in Vienna, where I gained insight into the construction industry in a different environment and further developed my confidence, knowledge, and practical abilities.
Samuel
Bricklaying Alumni StudentI had always enjoyed Bricklaying, so I knew it was the right course for me and that I wanted to build a career in the trade. The course allowed me to develop my practical skills, knowledge, and confidence while gaining valuable hands-on experience. One of the highlights of my time at West Lancashire College was the two-week industry placement in Vienna, which was an amazing experience and gave me the opportunity to broaden my horizons while learning in a different environment.
Construction at West Lancashire College
Upcoming events
November Open Event
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Thursday 19th November 2026
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Monday 1st February 2027
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April Open Event
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Thursday 29th April 2027
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