bricklayer/ Plasterer
Useful Links
https://www.goconstruct.org/construction-careers/
https://www.apprenticeships.gov.uk/apprentices/bricklayer-or-plasterer
A construction site may need to you to apply for a CSCS card :
https://www.cscs.uk.com/applying-for-cards/
Job Profiles
Bricklayer
https://www.goconstruct.org/construction-careers/what-jobs-are-right-for-me/bricklayer/
Plasterer
https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/job-profiles/plasterer
Main roles & responsibilities
Bricklaying :
Lay bricks and blocks according to design plans, maintaining accuracy and alignment
Prepare mortar mixes and spread them evenly to ensure solid and durable brickwork
Assist in constructing and repairing masonry structures, using specialised tools and equipment
Maintain a clean and organised work area, including cleaning tools and storing equipment properly
Plastering :
Clear work areas and remove rubbish
Apply layers of plaster onto walls, floors and ceilings
Work with commercial and domestic customers, other trades, architects and site managers
Work on a range of different size projects from small scale domestic to big commercial developments
Dry lining
Preparing the work space
Health and Safety rules to follow
Carry in materials to job - Plasterboards, Plaster Bags
Relevant preparation work
Under supervision, undertake all work as directed
Maintain, clean and store tools, equipment and vans
Follow company policies, attend mandatory training for your apprenticeship with Redcar and Cleveland College
Carry out any duty as reasonably requested
How to become a bricklayer / plasterer
College
For Bricklaying:
Some colleges offer part-time, short courses in bricklaying which could be a good way to find out if this job is for you, especially if you have no experience or are thinking of changing career.
B& FC offer coures in this area:
https://www.blackpool.ac.uk/course/cb1fe166
For Plastering :
You can do a college course that will teach you some of the skills needed for the job. Courses include:
Level 1 Award in Construction Skills Plastering
Level 2 Diploma in Plastering
Level 3 Advanced Technical Diploma in Plastering
T Level in On Site Construction
https://www.blackpool.ac.uk/course/cb1fe167
Apprenticeship
An apprenticeship with a construction firm is a good way into the industry.
Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16. As an apprentice, you will be fully employed by your company and expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week. Your time will be split between on-the-job experience and a college or training provider.
Use the find apprenticeship service or other apprenticeship search sites to look for current opportunities :
https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship
https://www.apprenticeships.gov.uk/apprentices/bricklayer-or-plasterer
https://www.blackpool.ac.uk/course/cn00006
Work
If you can get a job as a construction site labourer, your employer may provide training so you can become qualified.
Employers
You could work locally to where you live or choose to travel. Building projects including new housing developments, happen all over the country and almost always require bricklayers and plasterers.
Bricklayers will mainly work on outdoor construction sites, sometimes high up (it helps to have a head for heights!). Plasterers will mainly work indoors in homes, business premises and on construction sites.
^ Please click the button above for Employers in this sector.
Career development & progression
Once you’ve trained as a bricklayer, you could progress to a role as a site supervisor or foreman and earn a higher salary. There are also senior roles as construction managers, or you could start your own business and work as a self-employed subcontractor.
You could specialise in one area of bricklaying such as estimating, training, heritage restoration, or stonemasonry. With a Personal Track Safety (PTS) Card you could work on or near a railway line.