It can be very creative work, as bricklayers are often called upon to produce interesting and decorative effects. The trowel occupations also demand practical people who can work quickly and repetitively, often high above the ground.

What's involved

Bricklaying is one of the most recognised construction professions.

What's interesting is how many different materials bricklayers can work with and the different effects they can create. A bricklayer often gets the opportunity to travel around and sometimes work overseas.

Skills required

You'll need a good head for heights and be happy to work outdoors. Bricklaying can also be quite physical so good fitness is important, as well as being able to work in a team.

You'll also need to be precise, accurate and able to follow instructions from architects and engineers. It is also very important to have an awareness of how to work safely, especially when working at heights and carrying loads.

There are no formal requirements although it would help to have Maths and English Standard Grades.

Salary ranges

(This is a guide to the average salary a fully qualified and experienced person might expect to get.)

£17,000 - £28,500

Progression routes

After gaining further experience, there are opportunities to progress into supervisory and management roles, and many bricklayers go on to set up their own companies.

Progression routes

• PDA Construction Crafts (SCQF Level 7)

If you then decide to progress into supervisory, design or management roles there are opportunities to study for:

• Technical, supervisory and  management SVQ qualifications (SCQF Levels 8,9,11)
• HNC Construction or a number of other built environment HNC/HND qualifications (SCQF Levels 7 or 8)
• Degree level qualifications in a number of construction disciplines (SCQF Levels 9 to 12)

Find out more about this role from an apprentice's point of view