Britain is grappling with its lowest number of bricklayers in over 25 years, with current workforce levels at their smallest since 1998, and a full 30% of those remaining set to retire in the next decade. Since the 2008 financial crash, the construction workforce has shrunk by roughly 20%, while housing demand has surged.

Demographic decline isn’t the only issue. Fewer young people are entering the trade, and Brexit alongside COVID-19 has reduced the inflow of Eastern European bricklayers. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) puts the sector’s total workforce down by nearly 100,000 compared to five years ago.

Why It Matters

• Housing delivery stalled: A landmark report warns this shortage could yet derail plans to build 1.5 million homes over the next five years.
• Rising costs and quality risks: With demand outstripping supply, wages rise, quality fluctuates, and timelines extend, pushing up costs for developers and homeowners alike.
• Unsustainable pipeline: Apprenticeship uptake is faltering, roughly half of construction apprentices don’t finish further weakening the trade pipeline.

Is Bricklaying Still a Good Career?

Despite the challenges facing the industry, bricklaying remains one of the most in-demand and rewarding trades in construction. It’s a hands-on career that combines technical skill, practical experience, and long-term security.

• Strong earning potential: With such a shortage, skilled bricklayers are commanding higher rates across the UK.
• High demand, long-term prospects: With major housing and infrastructure targets set for the rest of the decade, bricklayers will continue to be highly sought after.
• Progression routes: From site work to supervisory roles, NVQs and CSCS cards open the door to career development.
• Visible results: Bricklayers take pride in seeing the real-world impact of their work, from homes and schools to hospitals and commercial buildings.

If you already have bricklaying experience but no formal qualification, now is the ideal time to turn your skills into a recognised credential and unlock better opportunities.

Meeting Industry Demand with Recognised Qualifications

We help workers take the next step in their career, from site experience to recognised qualification and a CSCS Skilled Worker card.

1. Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Trowel Occupations (Bricklaying)

Our NVQ Level 2 in Trowel Occupations (Bricklaying) is designed for experienced workers looking to gain a formal qualification through on-site assessment, typically completed within 8–14 weeks. It’s a recognised route to gaining the Blue CSCS Skilled Worker Card, helping individuals access higher-skilled roles and meet industry requirements on major construction sites.

 Level 2 NVQ Diploma – Bricklaying

• Earn as you learn: no need to leave site or college, the qualification is assessed through real work activities.
• Funding support available: CITB-registered employers may be able to offset the cost of training through the CITB Skills and Training Fund or their local CITB Employer Network — both designed to support construction businesses in upskilling their workforce.

These schemes offer tailored funding routes based on company size and training needs, with support available for NVQs, upskilling, and specialist trade development.

2. Career Path to a Blue CSCS Card

Once learners gain their NVQ Level 2 and pass the HS&E test, they’re eligible for a Blue CSCS Skilled Worker Card, a must-have credential for on-site work:

• Gateway to opportunity: Holds the key to better-paid, higher-skilled onsite roles
• Boosts credibility: CSCS cards are widely mandated by principal contractors and housebuilders.

Shaping the Future — Why It Matters

Whether you're an employer facing trade shortages or a skilled worker looking to progress, now is the time to act:

• Employers: Access a qualified workforce, meet on-site competency requirements, and make the most of available CITB funding to support training.
• Experienced Workers: Turn your site experience into a recognised qualification and unlock access to the Blue CSCS Skilled Worker Card.
• New to the Trade?: Our NVQ routes are ideal for those already working in bricklaying who want to formalise their skills and progress in the industry.

Call to Action: Build Skills & Build Britain

There’s no time to lose. As plans to deliver 1.5 million homes by 2029 ramp up, the industry needs a fresh surge of qualified bricklayers and specialist tradespeople. Essential Site Skills is here to fill that gap, together, we can:

• Empower workers to retrain and retain critical trade expertise.
• Connect learners with the tools and credentials to succeed on site.
• Support employers to future-proof their workforce and improve delivery standards.

To learn more about our NVQ pathways and how we can support you or your team in achieving a Blue CSCS Skilled Worker Card, get in touch with our team today.

“Skilled hands built this country, and skilled hands will build its future. Be part of the next generation that leaves a lasting mark.”