Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Trowel Occupations

The NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Trowel Occupations provides a nationally recognised qualification for those working in the construction and the built environment and specialise in the erection of masonry structures.

Upon completion of the qualification, you will be awarded the NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Trowel Occupations which allows the holder to obtain the Gold Advanced Craft CSCS Card.

The qualification modules will be discussed and agreed upon with each individual candidate to ensure that the qualification will be suited to your job role.

Each candidate will be allocated a qualified assessor to provide support throughout the qualification and provide information, advice and guidance to candidates in order that they can achieve the qualification.

If you require further information or are looking to undertake this qualification, please contact us.

CSCS Cards

Candidates can undertake the CSCS test and obtain the red (Provisional) CSCS card on signing up for various Train 4 Growth qualifications. The red card can usually be obtained within 7 to 14 days and can be used to access the construction sites for a period of 12 months. Upon completion the card is upgraded to the full 5 year CSCS Card.

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This Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Trowel Occupations is designed for experienced bricklayers looking to prove their skills, gain a recognised qualification, and progress in their careers. Often called an advanced bricklaying course, it provides official recognition of your ability to take on more complex brickwork, masonry, and decorative structures on site.

By completing this NVQ Level 3 in bricklaying, you’ll not only demonstrate your competence but also become eligible for the Gold CSCS Card, showing employers you’re a skilled worker at an advanced level.

  • Practical, work-based qualification designed around your real site experience.
  • Covers advanced skills in bricklaying, masonry, and decorative trowel work.
  • Recognition of your expertise with an industry-approved NVQ qualification.
  • Route to the Gold CSCS Skilled Worker Card, boosting your career prospects.
  • Flexible assessment in your workplace – no exams, no classrooms.

This NVQ bricklaying course is ideal for:

  • Experienced bricklayers looking to achieve formal recognition of their skills.
  • Workers aiming to move from a Blue CSCS Card to a Gold CSCS Skilled Worker Card.
  • Employers who want their team leaders or senior bricklayers assessed and qualified.
  • Tradespeople working in trowel occupations who want to progress to supervisory roles.

If you’re newer to the trade, our Level 2 bricklaying course is the ideal starting point to gain the basics before moving on to the Level 3.

The qualification combines mandatory units with optional ones, giving flexibility depending on your role and site experience.

Mandatory Units for Level 3 Bricklaying Course

  • Health, Safety and Welfare – following regulations and keeping safe on site.
  • Confirming Work Activities and Resources – planning and preparing work areas.
  • Occupational Methods of Work – ensuring masonry is set out and carried out to specification.
  • Working Relationships – maintaining good communication and teamwork on site.
  • Setting Out Masonry Structures – marking and preparing areas ready for build.
  • Erecting Masonry Structures and Cladding – building walls, structures, and cladding systems.
  • Architectural and Decorative Masonry – producing complex and decorative finishes.

Optional Units for Level 3 Bricklaying Course (choose based on your role)

  • Erecting thin joint masonry.
  • Repairing and maintaining existing masonry.
  • Installing drainage systems.
  • Specialist masonry elements.

This structure means your NVQ bricklaying qualification is based on what you actually do at work – whether it’s general brickwork, specialist masonry, or restoration.

On completion of this NVQ Level 3 in bricklaying, you’ll be eligible for the Gold CSCS Skilled Worker Card.

The Gold CSCS Card shows employers that you are a highly skilled and experienced bricklayer who can work to advanced standards. It can also open doors to higher pay, more responsibility, and progression into supervisory roles.

  • Course Length: Most learners complete within 6–12 months, depending on site opportunities and experience.
  • Study Mode: 100% work-based assessment. No need to attend college.
  • Assessment: Portfolio of evidence, site observations, and professional discussions with your assessor.

Evidence is collected from your normal day-to-day work, including:

  • Site observations by your assessor.
  • Photographic and video evidence of completed brickwork.
  • Work diaries, timesheets, and job specs.
  • Witness testimonies from supervisors.
  • Health and safety records.

No written exams – everything is based on what you already do on site.

This NVQ Level 3 in bricklaying is fully accredited by GQA Qualifications and recognised across the construction industry.

Completing the qualification shows you meet industry standards in trowel occupations and demonstrates advanced competence to employers and clients.

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

We can arrange for funded qualifications in many areas and qualification at Level 3 and above. Please contact us if you are looking for a funded qualification.

You may be able to claim up to £600 through the CITB grants and funding scheme, however, you will need to submit your own claim upon completion of the qualification.

The CITB grants and funding scheme is not a partnership scheme whereby we can access funding on your behalf. Find out more here.

Ready to take the next step in your career? Contact Train 4 Growth today to enrol on the NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Trowel Occupations (Construction).

Call us on 0161 706 1401 or fill out our online enquiry form to get started.