NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Bricklaying

What is the NVQ Level 3 Bricklaying?

The NVQ Level 3 in Bricklaying is a nationally recognised qualification designed for experienced bricklayers ready to take the next step in their career.

This advanced, work-based diploma proves your ability to plan, manage, and carry out complex bricklaying work to a high standard, emphasising safety, consistency, and leadership on site.

There are no exams or classroom sessions. You’ll complete the NVQ through practical evidence gathered from your day-to-day role. It’s the recognised route to the CSCS Gold Skilled Worker Card and can help you progress into supervisory or specialist roles in the construction industry.

Who Should Take the Bricklaying NVQ Level 3?

This NVQ is designed for experienced bricklayers who already take responsibility for complex tasks on-site - whether that’s supervising others, solving technical issues, or ensuring work meets quality standards.

If you’ve already completed your Level 2 or gained significant experience on-site, this qualification helps you prove your capabilities at a more advanced level. It’s ideal for those looking to move into supervisory roles or formalise the senior responsibilities they already carry out on-site.

What's Covered in the NVQ Level 3 Bricklaying Course?

This qualification is made up of 7 mandatory units and at least 1 optional unit, all assessed through the work you already do on-site. The mandatory units cover advanced bricklaying techniques, safety, planning, and work coordination, while the optional units let you tailor the NVQ to your role, such as decorative brickwork, drainage, or masonry repair.

Throughout the course, you’ll develop both your technical skills and your ability to lead or work independently on-site.

You’ll learn how to:

• ✓ Set out and build complex masonry structures
• ✓ Construct decorative and architectural features (e.g. arches, chimney stacks, curved walls)
• ✓ Manage quality and safety when working with materials, tools, and site layouts
• ✓ Plan work sequences, labour, and materials for bricklaying tasks
• ✓ Interpret detailed site drawings and specifications
• ✓ Communicate effectively with other trades on-site
• ✓ Repair and maintain masonry structures to a high standard
• ✓ Follow building regulations and environmental guidance

How Long Will it Take to Complete this NVQ?

There’s no fixed schedule for this Level 3 qualification - you’ll complete it by gathering evidence while working on-site. You can progress at your own pace, fitting the NVQ around your existing workload.

Most learners complete everything in as little as 4 to 5 weeks - some even sooner. If you need more time, you’ll have up to 12 months to finish. The more consistently you submit evidence and stay in touch with your assessor, the faster you’ll get qualified.

How Do You Complete this Level 3 NVQ?

To complete the NVQ Level 3 in Bricklaying, you’ll need to gather evidence from your day-to-day work on-site. Once you’ve enrolled, your assessor will schedule an induction to walk you through how everything works.

At your induction, you’ll:

• ✓ Get access to your online learner dashboard
• ✓ Learn how to upload and organise your site-based evidence
• ✓ Be guided through the full NVQ process, step by step

After that, you’re free to complete the qualification at your own pace. Your assessor will stay in touch throughout, offering support, checking your progress, and making sure everything stays on track.

How is this Qualification Assessed?

This NVQ is assessed through the practical work you carry out on-site. You’ll put together a portfolio of evidence that demonstrates your competence in advanced bricklaying tasks.

Your evidence portfolio may include:

• Short written responses to show your understanding of key techniques
• Photos or videos of your bricklaying work completed on-site
• Supporting documents such as site diaries, material records, or health and safety paperwork
• A witness statement from a supervisor or experienced colleague confirming your capabilities

Your assessor will review this portfolio to confirm you meet the standards required at Level 3.

Entry Requirements for the Level 3 NVQ in Bricklaying

To enrol on this course, you must already be working as a bricklayer on an active construction site. This qualification is aimed at experienced professionals who are involved in setting out, managing brickwork tasks, interpreting technical drawings, and maintaining quality on site.

You’ll need ongoing access to live projects where you’re performing skilled work — this is essential for gathering the evidence required to complete the NVQ.

What Qualification Will You Receive?

Once completed, you’ll be awarded the Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Trowel Occupations (Construction) – Bricklaying. This is a nationally recognised qualification that confirms your ability to carry out advanced bricklaying work to industry standards.

Successful learners can use this qualification to apply for the CSCS Gold Skilled Worker Card — a key credential for senior bricklaying roles across the UK construction sector.

Progression After the Level 3 NVQ Bricklaying

Completing this NVQ demonstrates that you're working at an advanced level in your trade, often taking the lead on complex jobs or overseeing others on-site. It’s ideal for those looking to move into supervisory, team leader, or specialist masonry roles.

If you want to advance your career, you may consider progressing into site supervision or management via the Level 4 NVQ in Construction Site Supervision or related qualifications in occupational work supervision.

What Are the Benefits of the NVQ Level 3 in Bricklaying?

Completing the Level 3 NVQ in Bricklaying offers a range of professional benefits for experienced tradespeople looking to advance their careers:

• ✓ CSCS Gold Card Eligibility – This qualification meets the requirements for the CSCS Gold Skilled Worker Card, helping you stand out for advanced roles across UK construction sites.
• ✓ No Exams or Classroom Learning – You’ll be assessed entirely through your on-site work, with no written tests or off-the-job training.
• ✓ Recognised Qualification – The Level 3 NVQ is nationally accredited and proves your ability to complete complex bricklaying tasks to industry standards.
• ✓ Career Progression – A strong asset for bricklayers aiming for team leader, supervisor, or specialist masonry roles.
• ✓ Work Around Your Job – Fit the NVQ around your current projects — most learners finish in just 4–5 weeks.
• ✓ One-to-One Assessor Support – Get personalised guidance throughout, ensuring your portfolio stays on track from start to finish.
• ✓ Pathway to Higher Qualifications – Once completed, this NVQ opens the door to supervisory training, such as the Level 4 NVQ in Site Supervision.

Can I Complete the NVQ Level 3 Bricklaying Course Online?

Yes, the entire NVQ is delivered remotely and fits around your day job on-site. You’ll upload photos, documents, and other evidence to our online learner system, while receiving regular guidance and feedback from your assessor throughout the course.

What’s the Cost of the NVQ Level 3 Bricklaying?

The full cost of the NVQ Level 3 in Bricklaying is £899.99. This price includes everything you need to complete the qualification — from access to our online learner platform to one-to-one support from a qualified assessor. You’ll receive step-by-step guidance throughout the course, regular progress check-ins, and a final review of your portfolio before certification is issued.

💡 There are no hidden charges, and we offer flexible, interest-free instalment plans to make payment more manageable.

What Jobs Can the NVQ Level 3 in Bricklaying Lead to?

Completing this NVQ opens the door to more senior roles within the trade. Common positions include:

• ✓ Advanced Bricklayer
• ✓ Brickwork Team Leader
• ✓ Masonry Supervisor
• ✓ Site Foreman
• ✓ Specialist Brickwork Contractor

This qualification shows that you can handle complex bricklaying tasks independently and take on greater responsibility on-site, making you more competitive for higher-paid work.

How Much Can I Earn After Achieving the Bricklaying Level 3 NVQ?

With a Level 3 NVQ and a CSCS Gold Card, experienced bricklayers typically earn between £40,000 and £55,000 per year - and potentially more, depending on the project size, location, and your level of responsibility. Those managing small teams or working on specialist commercial builds often command even higher rates.

How Do I Get the CSCS Gold Card for Bricklayers?

To apply for the CSCS Gold Skilled Worker Card in bricklaying, you’ll need to:

1. Complete the NVQ Level 3 in Bricklaying
2. Pass the CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test for Operatives (within the last 2 years)
3. Apply online through the official CSCS website with your certificate and test result

📌 The CSCS Gold Card is valid for five years and widely recognised across the construction industry as a mark of advanced competence. For more details, see our blog on How to Get a CSCS Gold Card.