What's involved

Craft masons build and repair walls, chimney stacks, tunnel linings and decorative stonework like archways. They also refurbish brickwork and masonry on restoration projects.

They measure work areas, mix mortar, shape, trim and lay bricks and set out first rows (courses).  Craft masons check that all courses are straight and also apply damp courses to prevent moisture from passing through the walls.

Skills required

As a craft mason you will 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 will also need to be precise, accurate and be able to follow instructions from architects. It is also very important to have an awareness of how to work safely, especially when working at heights and carrying loads.

Qualifications required

There are no formal requirements although it would help to have GCSE's in English/Welsh and Maths at A*-C (Applications from students with the Foundation/Intermediate Welsh Baccalaureate are also welcomed).

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

There are a wide range of opportunities for Bricklaying and Craft Masonry apprentices to have a structured career path in both new builds and refurbishments.

Bricklaying and Craft Masonry apprentices will be able to progress to:

• Apprenticeship (Level 3) in Bricklaying

After gaining work experience in the chosen occupational area there are also opportunities to progress into occupational work supervision, management or technical support areas.