What will you do?
The trade is also known as a mason, and experienced bricklayers often grow into team leader roles on site. You set up the site, prepare the work and mix mortar and filler. You then carry out the masonry, point the joints and place prefab elements.
- Set up the site and prepare the work
- Mix mortar and filler
- Carry out masonry with mortar or glue
- Point the masonry joints
- Place prefab elements
- Tidy the site
- Work safely and with respect for the environment
Skills to develop
- Good physical condition for heavy outdoor work
- Able to read plans and work to exact measurements
- No fear of heights, you regularly work on scaffolding
- Enjoy working in a team on site
Your foundation for this occupation
Learn bonds, setting out and masonry details. Understand how walls, openings and junctions are built together.
From preparation to your first day
Develop the practical skills
Build a practice corner and window opening from drawings. Practise mortar bedding, joint size and checking with line, level and plumb.
Check your work
Check dimensions, alignment and junctions as work rises. Protect fresh masonry according to weather and site instructions.
How can you grow?
Specialise in facing brickwork, renovation or complex bonds and progress to team leadership with setting-out responsibility.
Frequently asked questions
Why does the first course matter so much?
Errors in dimension or level carry into later courses and junctions. Take time over setting out and check corners and openings before building further.