Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Bricklaying
The Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Bricklaying is a competence-based construction NVQ awarded by GQA (a CITB-approved centre). Assessed entirely in your workplace via remote e-portfolio — no exams, nationwide. It costs £950 fixed with no VAT, typically takes 6–10 weeks with assessment carried out remotely or on site from your normal work — no exams, no classroom.
Qualification Overview
The Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Bricklaying is a competence-based construction NVQ awarded by GQA (a CITB-approved centre). Assessed entirely in your workplace via remote e-portfolio — no exams, nationwide.
Qualification Structure
The Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Bricklaying is built from mandatory and optional units. You complete all mandatory units, plus optional units chosen to match your pathway.
Mandatory units Required — all 8
You must complete all 8 mandatory units.
| Unit no. | Unit title | Level | Credit |
|---|---|---|---|
| A/503/1170 | Conforming to General Health, Safety and Welfare in the Workplace | 1 | 2 |
| R/503/2924 | Confirming the Occupational Method of Work in the Workplace | 3 | 11 |
| Y/650/1392 | Developing and Maintaining Good Occupational Working Relationships in the Workplace | 3 | 8 |
| A/503/2772 | Confirming Work Activities and Resources for an Occupational Work Area in the Workplace | 3 | 10 |
| D/650/0296 | Setting out to form Masonry Structures in the Workplace | 2 | 23 |
| T/650/0293 | Erecting Masonry Cladding in the Workplace | 2 | 24 |
| A/650/0295 | Erecting Masonry Structures in the Workplace | 2 | 31 |
| T/650/1391 | Erecting Masonry to form Architectural and Decorative Structures in the Workplace | 3 | 35 |
Optional units Choose to suit your pathway
Select and complete the optional units chosen with your assessor to match the tasks you carry out on site.
| Unit no. | Unit title | Level | Credit |
|---|---|---|---|
| H/650/0298 | Erect Thin Joint Masonry Structures in the Workplace | 2 | 24 |
| Y/650/0294 | Repairing and Maintaining Masonry Structures in the Workplace | 3 | 25 |
| R/650/0292 | Installing Drainage in the Workplace | 2 | 19 |
| F/650/0297 | Installing and Forming Specialist Masonry Elements in the Workplace | 3 | 21 |
Qualification facts
- Qualification number (QAN): 610/0501/0
- Assessment method: Portfolio of Evidence (workplace observation, witness testimony, professional discussion and knowledge questions)
Available pathway
This qualification is delivered as GQA Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Trowel Occupations (Construction) — a single competence-based NVQ with a choice of specialist pathways. You qualify in the pathway that matches the work you already do on site, assessed by remote e-portfolio. Available pathways include Advanced Bricklayer, Advanced Mason, Complex Trowel Occupations.
- Advanced Bricklayer
- Advanced Mason
- Complex Trowel Occupations
Popular routes include advanced bricklayer, advanced masonry, complex trowel work. Tell us your trade and we’ll confirm the right pathway and CSCS card outcome (Gold CSCS Advanced Craft).
Entry requirements
You work at advanced craft level, or you carry some responsibility for the standard of other people’s work, depending on the pathway you take.
To start Level 3 qualification you need:
- A relevant job to be assessed in. This is a competence qualification, so you must have access to real work of the right type while you are registered. No workplace, no evidence.
- Proof of identity — a passport, driving licence or similar, as the awarding body requires.
- A National Insurance number, so we can obtain your Unique Learner Number.
- Enough English to explain your work to your assessor and to talk through your evidence.
- A device with a camera — a phone is fine. Evidence is photos and short videos of your own work, uploaded to your e-portfolio.
You do not need: any prior qualification, any classroom attendance, or to sit an exam. Assessment is entirely in your workplace via a remote e-portfolio, nationwide.
Tell us about any support need, disability or learning difficulty when you enrol and we will arrange reasonable adjustments — it does not affect whether you can take the qualification.
The awarding body sets the final entry criteria for each qualification. If you are not sure whether your current role gives you the right evidence, ask us before you book — we would rather tell you honestly than register you for something you cannot complete.
What card does this NVQ lead to?
Leads to the Gold CSCS Advanced Craft card
On completion you can apply for the Gold CSCS Advanced Craft card, recognising advanced trade competence.
Your NVQ pathway
- Level 2 Skilled
- Level 3 Advanced
- Level 4 Supervisor
- Level 5 Senior Supervisor
- Level 6 Manager
Your current qualification is highlighted. Progress up the pathway as your career develops.
How the e-portfolio assessment works
- Enrol and be assigned a dedicated occupational assessor.
- Gather workplace evidence — photos, videos, witness statements — via our online portal.
- Complete a professional discussion and observations against the 610/0501/0 standards.
- Certification, then apply to CSCS for your card.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Bricklaying NVQ take?
Most learners complete in 6–10 weeks, depending on how quickly workplace evidence is gathered.
Are there any exams?
No. This is a competence-based qualification assessed through workplace evidence, observation and professional discussion.
Is funding available?
CITB-registered employers can claim an achievement grant. See our funding guide for details.
Choose your pathway
This qualification is assessed against your actual job role — pick the pathway page that matches yours:

