The short version
- Main routeNVQ Diploma in Trowel Occupations, Level 2
- Leads toBlue Skilled Worker card
- HowAssessed on your own jobs. No classroom.
- You needCurrent work in the trade to show
- TimeOften a few months, depending on your evidence
Laying bricks for years without the paperwork? The trowel occupations NVQ is assessed on your own jobs, so there's no going back to college.
Who it's for
- Bricklayers without a formal qualification
- Self-employed brickies chasing commercial work
- Anyone whose card expired with no qualification behind it
New to the trade? On-site NVQs need real jobs to assess, so they're not for complete beginners. Start with an apprenticeship or college course. See routes for new starters.
Which qualification?
| Qualification | Level | Card it leads to |
|---|---|---|
| NVQ Diploma in Trowel Occupations | 2 | Blue Skilled Worker |
| NVQ Diploma in Trowel Occupations | 3 | Gold Advanced Craft |
Level 3 suits experienced bricklayers doing more complex work like arches, decorative features and setting out whole jobs.
What the assessor wants to see
- Setting out, walls and cavity work, photographed as they go up
- Pointing and finishing
- Drawings or specs you built from
- Witness statements from the site manager or client
Tip: Photograph the setting out, not just the finished wall. It's one of the things assessors most want to see.
How it works
Quick skills check
A short check of your bricklaying experience works out the right level and pathway.
Register
You're registered with the awarding body and given a portfolio to fill.
Build your evidence
Photos, job sheets and witness statements from work you're already doing.
Site visit
The assessor watches you lay on a live job, checking your setting out, how you keep to line and level, and the finish on your pointing.
Discussion
They'll ask about mortar mixes, damp-proof courses, cavity trays and how you'd build features you don't do often.
Certificate
After a quality check, you're qualified.
How long it takes
A brickie working full time on new builds can gather enough evidence quickly. Mixed repair work can take a little longer to cover every unit.
Cost
Expect to pay roughly £800–£1,000 + VAT for a Level 2 or 3 with a private assessment centre. Supervisory and management levels cost more. These are ballpark figures. The price usually covers registration, assessment and the certificate. Some providers offer instalments, and employers may be able to claim a CITB grant.
Getting your card
Level 2 leads to the Blue Skilled Worker card, Level 3 to Gold Advanced Craft. Both need a current CITB health, safety and environment test pass.
Quick answers
Can I qualify if I only lay blocks?
Ask your provider. You'll normally need evidence across the range of units, including brick and block work.
Does repair and extension work count?
Yes. Real jobs of any size can count if they cover the units.
Is Level 3 worth it for a bricklayer?
If you set out whole jobs, run a gang or do decorative work, Level 3 and a Gold card can help you win bigger contracts.
Is there a written exam?
Not for the NVQ itself. It's assessed through evidence, observation and discussion. The CITB HS&E test for your card is separate.