Level 1 Bricklaying Course in Paignton. Classes run at South Devon College, full-time during the day. You'll need a GCSE grade 2 (E) or Level 1 Functional Skills in both Maths and English to enrol. The course takes one year and focuses on the fundamental skills of bricklaying, with plenty of hands-on practical time developing trowel skills. It covers the core knowledge you need to start working toward a career as a bricklayer.
Who this course is for
The level 1 Certificate in Bricklaying is designed for people that are interested in a career in Bricklaying. The course covers the fundamental skills and knowledge required to start you on your journey as a Bricklayer. This is a hands on course with plenty of time spent on practical tasks developing essential trowel skills. On completion of this course there are progression routes into a level 2 Bricklaying course or an Apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
You should have a genuine interest in this subject, You must have a GCSE Grade 2(E) in Maths or L1 functional skills, You must have a GCSE Grade 2(E) in Maths and English
What you will learn
You'll develop core trowel skills used in everyday bricklaying work.
You'll learn how to lay bricks accurately to line and level.
You'll practise building brick and block structures to set specifications.
You'll understand health and safety requirements on construction sites.
You'll gain knowledge of the materials and tools used in bricklaying.
You'll learn how to interpret basic construction drawings and instructions.
How you will learn
Learning is classroom-based and heavily practical. You'll spend most of your time on hands-on tasks in a workshop environment, building and refining your bricklaying technique. Assessment is through practical tasks and skills demonstrations, alongside knowledge-based assessments that test your understanding of materials, safety, and construction principles.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. South Devon College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Bricklayer: how to become a bricklayer starts here, at Level 1.
Bricklayer's labourer: support skilled bricklayers on site while building experience.
Construction operative: general site work across residential and commercial projects.
Groundworker: foundation and groundwork roles that sit alongside bricklaying trades.
What you could study next
Level 2 Certificate or Diploma in Bricklaying: the natural next step, taking your skills further and moving you toward skilled-worker status.
Bricklaying Apprenticeship: combine paid work on site with structured training toward a Level 2 or Level 3 qualification.
Level 3 NVQ in Bricklaying: the qualification experienced bricklayers need to demonstrate occupational competence.