Level 2 Bricklaying Course Overview

Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Trowel Occupations

Our NVQ Level 2 bricklaying course (or to use its formal name, the Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Trowel Occupations) is designed for people working on-site as bricklayers and looking to prove their skills with a nationally recognised qualification.

This bricklaying course allows you to show competence in setting out, erecting, and maintaining masonry structures while following health and safety requirements.

Completing this qualification proves to employers that you have the knowledge, experience, and ability to work to industry standards. It also opens the door to applying for your Blue CSCS Skilled Worker Card, making it essential if you want to progress in your career.

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  • Recognition of your skills and experience as a working bricklayer.
  • A qualification assessed entirely in your workplace – no exams or classrooms.
  • Pathways and optional units to reflect different areas of trowel occupations.
  • Eligibility to apply for the Blue CSCS Card, proving you are a skilled worker.
  • Flexible assessment, suited to learners with different levels of literacy.

This bricklaying course is aimed at:

  • Individuals already working on-site as bricklayers who want to gain a formal qualification.
  • Employers who want their workforce qualified to meet site requirements and health and safety standards.
  • Construction workers with experience in masonry who want to progress to a NVQ Level 2 in Bricklaying and beyond.

If you are completely new to the trade, the Level 1 Health & Safety in a Construction Environment qualification is a good starting point, alongside gaining site experience, before moving on to this NVQ.

The course is structured around both mandatory and optional units, allowing flexibility depending on the type of bricklaying work you do.

Mandatory Units:

  • Conforming to General Health, Safety and Welfare – understanding and applying safe working practices.
  • Erecting Masonry Structures – building walls, blockwork, and other structural elements.
  • Setting Out Masonry Structures – working from drawings and specifications to mark out work areas.
  • Conforming to Productive Working Practices – teamwork, communication, and site efficiency.
  • Moving, Handling and Storing Resources – safe and effective handling of materials and tools.

Optional Units (learners complete at least one):

  • Erecting Masonry Cladding – constructing external finishes.
  • Erecting Thin Joint Masonry Structures – modern methods of construction using thin joint techniques.
  • Repairing and Maintaining Masonry Structures – working on existing builds, including restoration.
  • Installing Drainage – adding underground drainage systems on-site.
  • Placing and Compacting Concrete – understanding how to lay and level concrete.
  • Installing Specialist Masonry Elements – advanced or decorative masonry tasks.

This flexibility means the NVQ suits bricklayers in a wide range of site roles.

Once you complete the NVQ Level 2 in Bricklaying, you will be eligible to apply for the Blue CSCS Skilled Worker Card. This card is required on most UK construction sites and proves you are trained and competent in your trade.

To get the Blue Card you will need:

The NVQ bricklaying course is assessed entirely in the workplace. There are no written exams. Instead, you build a portfolio of evidence to show your competence.

Evidence may include:

  • On-site observations by your assessor.
  • Photographic or video evidence of your work.
  • Witness testimonies from supervisors.
  • Work diaries, timesheets, or job specifications.
  • Health and safety records.

This method ensures the qualification reflects your real working ability, rather than classroom learning

This NVQ is accredited by GQA Qualifications and recognised throughout the construction industry. It demonstrates that you meet the national standards for bricklaying and trowel occupations.

Employers value this qualification because it shows you can work safely, follow specifications, and deliver quality masonry work.

Once you’ve gained this qualification and your Blue CSCS Card, you’ll have opportunities to progress further:

Level 4 NVQ Diploma in Construction Site Supervision – step into broader site management responsibilities.

Take the next step in your career today. Whether you’re an individual looking to gain your NVQ Level 2 Bricklaying qualification or an employer wanting to upskill your team, Train 4 Growth can help.

Call us on 0161 706 1401 or complete our online enquiry form to find out more and enrol.