A worker wearing a hi-viz jacket and safety hat is constructing a wall from blocks using a trowel.

Whether you’re stepping into the bricklaying industry for the first time or looking to refine and develop the expertise you already possess, Able Skills offers a wide range of high-quality bricklaying courses tailored towards all levels of experience. 

All programmes are designed and taught by experts with decades of know-how, both on-site and in the classroom, meaning you’re in the best possible hands whichever course you choose.

"Did the taste of bricklaying course here for a week, enjoyed that and the instruction I received so went back again and did the City and Guilds bricklaying course. Great hands on training and level of instruction here. Overall a fantastic experience." John T. Via Trustpilot

If you're looking for a DIY bricklaying course or first step

Introduction to Bricklaying

Ideal for beginners, this City & Guilds approved five-day course offers a comprehensive, entirely hands-on introduction into the basics of bricklaying—and is the perfect starting point for anyone looking to begin a career in the construction industry.

Upon completion, graduates have the opportunity to progress to the City & Guilds Bricklaying Course or to pursue NVQ Level 2 certification.

If you're building a bricklaying career

Extended Bricklaying Programme

This six-week City & Guilds accredited bricklaying course is designed to take novice bricklayers to an industry-ready level of competency, equipped with the essential skills needed to consistently source and produce work. Placing focus on real-life working situations, students will start with smaller bricklaying work before moving on to more complex processes.

Advanced Bricklaying Course

If you've done the intro course and want to take your training a step further, this City & Guilds assured Advanced Bricklaying Course is geared towards more complex forms of bricklaying.

Ideal for those who already possess basic skills and are looking to further hone their expertise. You’ll learn about different tools and techniques, and build your speed.

City & Guilds Bricklaying Course

For those looking to earn a recognised accreditation in bricklaying, our qualified team can carry out the whole City & Guilds assessment on-site, throughout an intensive three-week training period. 

Should you successfully complete the assessment, you’ll have the opportunity to consider pursuing the City & Guilds Certificate & Training to NVQ Level 2.

NVQ Level 2 Bricklaying Course

This thorough eight-week course covers all the bases required for building site employment, along with the preparation needed to become NVQ Level 2 certified. 

Not only will you receive training which leads to a City & Guilds qualification—and is tailored towards seeking employment—you’ll leave with an extensive understanding of how to gather the evidence needed to achieve your NVQ certification. 

Upon completion, the NVQ Level 2 can be achieved by having your progress monitored within a workplace setting. 

"I just finished my 8 week bricklaying course, I had a great experience and was surprised how quickly I was building structures I could never have imagined building in 8 weeks, this is all thanks to my instructor Simon who is a great teacher who will always answer your questions and help you as much as he can, able skills has a great setup with hands on learning and top tier instructors who are masters in their fields, I would highly recommend this centre" James via Trustpilot

If you already have experience in bricklaying

Experienced Bricklayers who need NVQ

Perfect for those who already have strong knowledge and experience in bricklaying and are looking to gain official accreditation. After a short meeting, we’ll be able to advise and provide you with a pathway to obtaining your bricklaying NVQ, an essential qualification for any construction site worker

Using the Experienced Worker Practical Assessment (EWPA), we can provide a fast-track programme for those with at least five years’ experience. This requires a combination of pre-assessment questions, supplied evidence, practical assessments and a recorded professional discussion. 

Work Based Assessments for Bricklaying NVQ Level 2

As a recognised NVQ Assessment Centre, we’re able to offer those with underpinning qualifications, or who have been working within the bricklaying industry for less than five years, an NVQ on-site assessment. 

Following an initial interview with one of our assessors, an action plan and timetable will be created, outlining periods for you to gather your own evidence and to confirm site visit dates between yourself and the assessor.

Level 2 Bricklaying Diploma 

Aimed at those with a basic understanding of the construction industry, the City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma combines predominantly practical tasks with theory-based assessments, spread over a 10-week period (50 days). 

The Level 2 Bricklaying Diploma is a great entry route for anyone wanting to immediately begin their studies at a slightly higher level. The course has been designed specifically to ensure candidates are industry-ready, and once relevant work is secured, you’ll be able to complete your NVQ Level 2. 


If you’re interested in learning a bit more about any of our bricklaying courses, give us a call on 01322 280 202 or visit the training centre for a look around and a chat.

Editor's note: Originally published 06 September 2021. Updated 25 September 2025.