School Leaver

Start Date: Duration: Level: Study mode: Course Location: Course Type:
September 1 Year Level 2 Full-Time City Campus Full-time Vocational Apply Enquire

What’s it all about?

Build your future from the ground up with hands-on experience in a supportive and inspiring environment. You’ll explore how foundations are designed and constructed, how to read and adapt building plans, and gain a deeper understanding of different building materials—including how to make more sustainable choices on site. From laying bricks and blocks to creating insulated cavity walls and internal partitions, every project helps build confidence, precision, and problem-solving skills. You'll also be part of a department recognised nationally for its excellence, where the most dedicated students have opportunities to represent their college at prestigious competitions. If you’re passionate about construction and want to take your skills to the next level, this is the ideal next step.

You will need 2 GCSE's at grade 4-9 including Maths and English. Or a relevant Level 1 qualification.

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.

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.

GCSE Maths and English are vital stepping stones for your academic and professional journey. Achieving a good grade in these subjects not only fulfills most college entry requirements but also equips you with essential skills critical in almost every field. Whether you're calculating percentages in business, crafting compelling arguments, or simply managing daily tasks, these core subjects enhance your problem-solving and communication abilities, setting a solid foundation for your future studies and career success. Start your college course with confidence by securing these key qualifications!

Placement opportunities are an integral part of our curriculum, designed to bridge the gap between academic studies and the professional world. These experiences enable students to apply theoretical knowledge to real workplace challenges, enhancing their academic learning with practical skills. Tailored to complement your studies, placements are offered in a range of industries, from innovative local startups to leading global corporations.
By actively participating in these structured and supportive environments, students not only observe but also contribute meaningfully to the workings of their chosen field. This hands-on approach boosts confidence and provides a competitive advantage in the job market. The insights and experience gained are often transformative, arming students with the necessary tools for a successful and dynamic career. These opportunities are crafted to ensure you emerge as a well-rounded professional, ready to make significant contributions in your future endeavours.

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:

• Placement Opportunities: Dive into your future career with our hands-on placement opportunities. These are not just work experiences, but gateways to potential employment and invaluable learning. They’re a core part of our courses, offering you a chance to apply academic theories in real-world scenarios.
• 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 test(s) are based on the learner showing what they can do as an individual through the completion of all the requirements of the qualification.

The qualification is made up of several units to study:

- Principles of construction
- Building cavity walls
- Building solid walls and piers
- Constructing basic arches
- Setting out buildings

What’s next?

Upon completing this course, students are well-placed to advance their studies with a Level 3 qualification, broadening their expertise and enhancing employability. Alternatively, enter the workforce, ready to take on roles in construction firms or explore entrepreneurial opportunities by starting their own bricklaying business.
This qualification opens doors to a robust and rewarding career, crafting structures with skill and precision. Whether continuing education or stepping straight into the industry, students leave equipped with the tools to build a successful future in bricklaying.

Open Events

Find out everything you need to know about Sunderland College and our exciting range of courses!

Register for our next open event
Student in common room

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

Ofsted, 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

Close menu