Want to build the blocks for your career in construction? This pre-apprenticeship will equip you with the skills employers are looking for in an apprentice bricklayer/blocklayer.
Bricklaying is an important and in-demand trade, being vital to the construction industry as the foundation for residential and commercial developments. In this course you’ll learn how to use bricklaying tools and equipment to construct and repair brick and block walls.
Complete this course to give yourself the best chance of getting an apprenticeship and a head start in an outdoors trade such as bricklaying, carpentry or labouring.
Learn in specialist facilities
The Mandurah, Rockingham and Thornlie campuses feature modern workshops with tools and equipment you will find on any work site. Students complete this pre-apprenticeship in an environment that reflects current industry practices and simulates a real-life workplace.
- constructing and repairing walls, arches, foundations, and partitions
- mixing and placing concrete
- interpreting plans
- measuring and calculating the right amount of materials for the job
- erecting, using and dismantling scaffolding
- basic levelling procedures
- workplace health and safety
In order to make an informed choice about the suitability of this course, you must take into account the essential skills and knowledge required to undertake this study.
- good team work skills and the ability to work independently
- enjoyment of practical work and working in varied weather conditions outdoors
- an eye for detail and good hand-eye coordination
- high stamina and fitness levels
- ability to accurately follow plans, instructions and work to deadlines
- confidence in working from heights
This qualification is directly aligned with priority industry areas where the jobs are today, and into the future. As part of the state government Lower fees, local skills initiative, from 1 January 2020 through to 31 December 2025 you'll only pay half the course fees, capped for each year at $1,200; or $400 (plus resource fee) if you're aged 15—24 or eligible for a concession. Find out more
| School Leaver | Non-School Leaver | AQF |
|---|---|---|
| OLNA or NAPLAN 9 Band 8 | C Grades in Year 10 English and Maths or equivalent | Certificate I or Certificate II |
Attendance in class
This course is equivalent to 3 days per week when studied full time across one semester.
At-home study
As well as the in-class component, you will need to complete approximately 4 hours of additional study each week outside of class hours, including private study, assignment preparation, and research.
You will need to have the basic technical requirements for at-home study. If you don’t have access to a computer and WiFi at home, we recommend using our library computers during library hours.
Work placement
150 hours of work placement is mandatory for completion of this course. SM TAFE will arrange a suitable work placement within industry for you. This will involve your attendance at a workplace/worksite 1-2 days per week during the program or in a block of weeks at the end of the program depending on the host employer and availability.
Uniforms and workwear requirements:
Full PPE is required for the work placement (Hi-vis drill shirt and trousers, approved safety boots). Must have Construction White Card to enter any construction worksite. This accreditation will be achieved in the course.
What you need for your first day of class
On your first day you should bring your SM TAFE confirmation enrolment receipt, your student ID, stationery (pen, pencil, exercise book, eraser, ruler and calculator) and wear enclosed footwear.
In addition, the following uniform is required to be worn at all classes:
- PPE/Uniform – steel cap boots (no volleys permitted) and a T-shirt (singlets and thongs are not permissible).
One of the units of this course will be to obtain a white card which is a requirement to work onsite in the construction industry.
Please note this list should be used as a guide only as job titles and qualification requirements may vary between organisations.
Work placement is mandatory for completion of this course. SM TAFE will arrange a suitable work placement within industry for you which will involve your attendance at a workplace.
To access free career planning and job search assistance, visit the Jobs and Skills Centres page.
Select your preferred campus and apply
Click on your preferred campus and study mode below to get started with your application.