School Leaver

Start Date: Duration: Level: Study mode: Course Location: Course Type:
September 1 Year Level 1 Full-Time City Campus Full-time Vocational Apply Enquire

What’s it all about?

Ready to launch your career in bricklaying? Our Level 1 course offers a solid foundation in the skills and knowledge essential for success in the construction field. Through a combination of practical workshops and theoretical studies, you'll master the basics of bricklaying techniques, from measuring and cutting to the detailed art of laying bricks. This hands-on programme is designed to not only build your skills but also to inspire confidence in your abilities to work on various construction projects.

Whether you aspire to contribute to large-scale developments or focus on bespoke building projects, you'll find this programme thoroughly prepares you for further studies in bricklaying or related fields. Learn from experienced professionals and gain the skills that employers are actively seeking, all in an environment that celebrates your passion for building and construction. Let’s build your future together with expertise and craftsmanship at the forefront.

No formal entry requirements.

Study level Cost Additional fees
16-18 Free You will need to provide your own stationery and you will be given the opportunity to take part in trips and visits. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is a necessity in all practical workshop sessions, and you need to provide your own PPE, however you will be directed to a supplier that the college uses. More information will be provided on enrolment.

You will be taught using a range of teaching techniques including, workshop activities, classroom sessions, working as part of a team, using IT, tutorials, and development of other skills, such as interview skills and letter writing.

Throughout the course you will be assessed on your bricklaying skills in the workshop and knowledge tests will take place in the classroom periodically throughout the year to ensure learning is taking place and linking practical to theory.

Achieving a Grade 4 or above in GCSE Maths and English is important, but if you're not there yet, don’t worry! We provide supportive classes to help you meet these essential criteria. These subjects form the backbone of your educational toolkit, opening doors to further studies and exciting apprenticeships. Our sessions in Maths and English will equip you with the skills needed to thrive academically and professionally.

At Level 1, our courses are designed to lay a solid foundation without the requirement of a work placement, allowing you to focus fully on mastering the fundamentals of your chosen field. As you progress to Level 2 and Level 3, we encourage you to enhance your learning experience and boost your career prospects through targeted work placements. These opportunities are crafted to complement your studies and provide practical, hands-on experience in a real-world setting, preparing you to excel in a career you are passionate about.

At Sunderland College our commitment to your future goes beyond the classroom. We are dedicated to providing you with real-world experiences and industry insights that will prepare you not just to enter, but to excel in your chosen field. Here’s how we connect you with the industry:

• Networking Events: Build your professional network early. Our placement and careers fairs are your chance to meet and impress potential employers. These events are designed to help you forge significant industry connections that can enhance your career prospects. Attend talks, engage in discussions, and explore apprenticeship opportunities with employers who are eager to meet fresh talent.
• Expert Insights: Stay ahead of the curve with talks from specialist speakers. These industry leaders share the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the field, giving you the inside track on what to expect and how to thrive.
• Skills Competitions: Showcase your abilities in our exciting skills competitions. Held throughout the academic year, these competitions are not just about winning – they are about learning, growing, and pushing your limits. They offer a fun, competitive environment to enhance what you learn in class and develop essential industry skills.

The aim of the course is to prepare students to enter the industry in their chosen craft. It has been specifically developed for delivery in a training environment, using simulated conditions, and the practical and knowledge tests are based on the learner showing what they can do as an individual through the completion of all the requirements of the qualification.

- Constructing half-brick walling
- Introduction to health and safety in construction
- Constructing block walling
- Constructing half-brick return corners
- Constructing cavity walls in brickwork and blockwork
- Constructing one brick walls

What’s next?

Upon completion of this diploma, students are excellently positioned to advance their studies with a Level 2 qualification or to step directly into apprenticeships. This course paves the way to thriving careers in construction, where skills in bricklaying are in high demand.

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93% of our students have progressed to employment, university or further study

(*Destination data, all students, 2023-24)

Why choose Sunderland College?

Rated Outstanding in all areas by Ofsted

NSS, 2024

94% Overall pass rate for T Levels

2022-23

Top performing college group in the North East for student achievement

NARTS, 16-18 Students, 2024

We have International award winning Immersive Spaces at both Bede and City Campus