Laying bricks, blocks and other types of building components in mortar to construct and repair walls.
This occupation is found in both the new build and refurbishment sectors of the construction industry. Projects vary in size, scale, and duration, ranging from the repair of a garden wall to new build housing and large-scale commercial projects such as office blocks, hospitals and retail developments. Employers and contractors of bricklayers vary in size from small, local family building companies to major home builders and commercial contractors. Bricklayers sometimes choose to specialise in certain types of projects and go on to become masters in their field. Examples include refurbishment work, new build homes or commercial works. There is growing demand for Bricklayers to help meet the need for new homes.
The broad purpose of the occupation is to lay bricks and blocks, sometimes utilising modern methods of construction and premanufactured elements to construct walls. Bricklayers carry out simple setting out, prepare mortar and use a trowel to lay bricks, mortar and apply damp-proof materials to complete the project to specification and required design. Bricklayers use spirit levels and plumb lines to check building alignment and use hammers and chisels to shape and trim bricks and blocks. Bricklayers typically work outdoors on construction sites, in most weathers and at height.
In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with their immediate team and the site management team, which could include a senior or craft bricklayer providing advice and guidance. They would also often liaise with other construction trades such as site carpenters and roofers who could work for their own organisation or another contractor. Site managers again could work for their own company or the main contractor. In the case of smaller projects such as house extensions, liaison with the client, neighbours and officials such as building control surveyors would be expected.
An employee in this occupation will be responsible for creating a high-quality product which meets standards, specifications and design plans. They are expected to do this with due regard to all safety aspects involved with working on a construction site, ensuring the health, safety and wellbeing of themselves and others at all times. With sustainable construction at the forefront of all projects, it is expected they would give consideration to the environment and sustainability of materials, waste awareness and recycling.
This is a summary of the key things that you – the apprentice and your employer need to know about your end-point assessment (EPA). You and your employer should read the EPA plan for the full details. It has information on assessment method requirements, roles and responsibilities, and re-sits and re-takes.
An EPA is an assessment at the end of your apprenticeship. It will assess you against the knowledge, skills, and behaviours (KSBs) in the occupational standard. Your training will cover the KSBs. The EPA is your opportunity to show an independent assessor how well you can carry out the occupation you have been trained for.
Your employer will choose an end-point assessment organisation (EPAO) to deliver the EPA. Your employer and training provider should tell you what to expect and how to prepare for your EPA.
The length of the training for this apprenticeship is typically 24 months. The EPA period is typically 3 months.
The overall grades available for this apprenticeship are:
When you pass the EPA, you will be awarded your apprenticeship certificate.
The EPA gateway is when the EPAO checks and confirms that you have met any requirements required before you start the EPA. You will only enter the gateway when your employer says you are ready.
The gateway requirements for your EPA are:
Multiple-choice test
You will complete a multiple-choice test. It will be closed book, meaning you will not have access to any books or reference materials.
The test will have 40 multiple-choice questions. You will have 60 minutes to complete it.
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
You will have an interview with an independent assessor. It will last at least 60 minutes. They will ask you at least 10 questions. The questions will be about certain aspects of your occupation. You need to compile a portfolio of evidence before the EPA gateway. You can use it to help answer the questions.
Practical assessment with questions
You will be observed by an independent assessor completing a set of tasks. It will last 12 hours. They will ask you at least 6 questions.
The EPAO will confirm where and when each assessment method will take place.
You should speak to your employer if you have a query that relates to your job.
You should speak to your training provider if you have any questions about your training or EPA before it starts.
You should receive detailed information and support from the EPAO before the EPA starts. You should speak to them if you have any questions about your EPA once it has started.
If you have a disability, a physical or mental health condition or other special considerations, you may be able to have a reasonable adjustment that takes this into account. You should speak to your employer, training provider and EPAO and ask them what support you can get. The EPAO will decide if an adjustment is appropriate.
This occupation is found in both the new build and refurbishment sectors of the construction industry. Projects vary in size, scale, and duration, ranging from the repair of a garden wall to new build housing and large-scale commercial projects such as office blocks, hospitals and retail developments. Employers and contractors of bricklayers vary in size from small, local family building companies to major home builders and commercial contractors. Bricklayers sometimes choose to specialise in certain types of projects and go on to become masters in their field. Examples include refurbishment work, new build homes or commercial works. There is growing demand for Bricklayers to help meet the need for new homes.
The broad purpose of the occupation is to lay bricks and blocks, sometimes utilising modern methods of construction and premanufactured elements to construct walls. Bricklayers carry out simple setting out, prepare mortar and use a trowel to lay bricks, mortar and apply damp-proof materials to complete the project to specification and required design. Bricklayers use spirit levels and plumb lines to check building alignment and use hammers and chisels to shape and trim bricks and blocks. Bricklayers typically work outdoors on construction sites, in most weathers and at height.
In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with their immediate team and the site management team, which could include a senior or craft bricklayer providing advice and guidance. They would also often liaise with other construction trades such as site carpenters and roofers who could work for their own organisation or another contractor. Site managers again could work for their own company or the main contractor. In the case of smaller projects such as house extensions, liaison with the client, neighbours and officials such as building control surveyors would be expected.
An employee in this occupation will be responsible for creating a high-quality product which meets standards, specifications and design plans. They are expected to do this with due regard to all safety aspects involved with working on a construction site, ensuring the health, safety and wellbeing of themselves and others at all times. With sustainable construction at the forefront of all projects, it is expected they would give consideration to the environment and sustainability of materials, waste awareness and recycling.
| Duty | KSBs |
|---|---|
|
Duty 1 work in compliance with occupational health, safety and environmental requirements to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of self and others at all times. Report in a timely manner any non-compliances against the construction programme to the appropriate person. |
|
|
Duty 2 carry out their work conforming to all current and relevant building regulations, quality standards and work instructions. |
K1 K2 K3 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K15 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K30 |
|
Duty 3 work to the construction programme, adapting to changes in schedule and requirements where necessary. |
|
|
Duty 4 prepare the work site including setting out the work and the selection of materials and tools appropriate to the project. |
K2 K3 K4 K6 K8 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 |
|
Duty 5 use the appropriate tools and equipment to construct walls with brick and block to industry standards |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K25 K29 |
|
Duty 6 carry out minor repairs or modifications to masonry |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K6 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K22 K23 K24 |
|
Duty 7 collaborate with stakeholders including clients and other construction trades |
|
|
Duty 8 maintain a clear and safe worksite at all times, disposing of waste appropriately and sustainably |
|
|
Duty 9 carry out continuous professional development to maintain knowledge of current and future developments affecting the role |
|
|
Duty 10 receive, unload, move and lift materials to site for installation following good handling practices preventing injury or damage. |
K1: Awareness of health and safety regulations, standards, and guidance and impact on role. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (CoSHH). Fire safety. Health and Safety at Work Act. Asbestos awareness. Manual handling. signage, fire extinguishers. Safety signage. Situational awareness. Slips, trips, and falls. Working in confined spaces. Working at height. Electrical safety respiratory protective equipment (RPE), dust suppression.
Back to Duty
K2: Safety control equipment and how to use personal protective equipment (PPE).
Back to Duty
K3: Safe systems of work: Site inductions, toolbox talks, risk assessments, method statements and hazard identification in the work area.
Back to Duty
K4: Impact of the sector on the environment: Efficient use of resources. Recycling, reuse, surface water contamination and safe disposal of waste.
Back to Duty
K5: The importance and considerations of the environment and sustainability: Thermal qualities, airtightness and ventilation in buildings.
Back to Duty
K6: Principles of building: Foundations, roofs, walls, cavity step trays, floors, utilities and services, insulation, fire, moisture and air protection, damp proof courses, the use of brick ties and quality of materials.
Back to Duty
K7: Standards and regulations associated with bricklaying activities: British standards, building regulations and warranty provider standards.
Back to Duty
K8: Materials and their characteristics: Bricks and blocks, efflorescence, mortar, damp proof courses (DPC), wall ties, plasticisers, concrete and steel lintels, Rolled Steel Joist (RSJ), fire stopping, insulation, cement and building sand.
Back to Duty
K9: Modern methods of construction: Rapid build technology, precast components, corner profiles, alternative frame and cladding systems, masonry support systems.
Back to Duty
K10: Methods of interpreting and extracting relevant information from drawings and specifications.
Back to Duty
K11: Basic principles of digital design and modelling systems.
Back to Duty
K12: Simple resource estimation techniques: Quantity of bricks and blocks, amount of mortar, quantity of wall ties, DPCs, cavity trays and lintels.
Back to Duty
K13: Hand tool use, maintenance and storage: Levels, measures, hammers, bolsters, brick hammers, trowels, brick jointer, line blocks and pins, scutch, chariot and brick clamps.
Back to Duty
K14: Power tool use and limitations: Disc cutters, mixers and drills.
Back to Duty
K15: Bond types: English bond, flemish bond, garden wall bonds and broken bond.
Back to Duty
K16: Brick solid wall setting out, construction and capping methods.
Back to Duty
K17: Joint finishes: Half round, flush, weather struck and recessed.
Back to Duty
K18: Principles of basic decorative walling and piers: projecting and contrasting brick, isolated and attached pier, banding.
Back to Duty
K19: Principles of the use of expansion joints.
Back to Duty
K20: Mixing Mortar: Ratios, silos, pre-mixed, gauging, hand mixing and mechanical mixing.
Back to Duty
K21: Cavity wall setting out techniques: Bricks and blocks, openings and levels, use of profiles, gauge rods and squares.
Back to Duty
K22: Cavity wall construction using stretcher bond brick and block walling, forming openings, closing cavities. selection and placement of wall ties, insulation, damp proof courses (DPCs), cavity trays, weep holes, lintels and fire stopping.
Back to Duty
K23: Brick on edge and soldier courses: setting out and construction techniques.
Back to Duty
K24: Defects and repair: Construction defects and repair methods.
Back to Duty
K25: Methods of protecting materials and work: Frost, water and construction damage.
Back to Duty
K26: Verbal communication techniques and construction terminology.
Back to Duty
K27: Principles of good team working.
Back to Duty
K28: Inclusion, equity and diversity in the workplace.
Back to Duty
K29: Methods of cutting bricks and blocks using hand tools.
Back to Duty
K30: Brick walls with raking cut: Setting out and construction techniques.
Back to Duty
K31: Well-being: Mental and physical health considerations in self and others and how to access support.
Back to Duty
S1: Comply with health and safety regulations, standards, and guidance.
Back to Duty
S2: Identify and use personal protective equipment (PPE).
Back to Duty
S3: Comply with environmental and sustainability regulations, standards, and guidance. Segregate resources for reuse, recycling and disposal.
Back to Duty
S4: Comply with industry regulations, standards, and guidance.
Back to Duty
S5: Read and interpret information from drawings and specifications.
Back to Duty
S6: Estimate and select required resources: For example, the quantity of bricks and blocks, mortar, wall ties and insulation.
Back to Duty
S7: Prepare and maintain a safe working area.
Back to Duty
S8: Select and use hand tools.
Back to Duty
S9: Maintain and store hand tools.
Back to Duty
S10: Set out brick and block cavity wall to given tolerances, including an opening.
Back to Duty
S11: Construct a stretcher bond brick and block cavity wall with return and opening to given tolerances, including installing a lintel with soldiers, brick and edge sill, closure around opening, insulation, fire stopping, cavity tray, damp proof course (DPC) and weep holes.
Back to Duty
S12: Apply joint finishes: For example, half round, flush, weather struck and recessed.
Back to Duty
S13: Set out and construct a simple brick solid wall with capping.
Back to Duty
S14: Gauge and hand mix mortar to ratio.
Back to Duty
S15: Measure and cut bricks and blocks using hand tools, to given tolerances.
Back to Duty
S16: Carry out a simple repair: For example, replacing damaged bricks.
Back to Duty
S17: Protect materials and finished work.
Back to Duty
S18: Verbally communicate with others, applying construction terminology.
Back to Duty
S19: Follow equity, diversity and inclusion guidance.
Back to Duty
S20: Applies team working principles to their own and the wider build team.
Back to Duty
S21: Identifies well-being support available to self and others.
Back to Duty
S22: Construct a brick wall with raking cut. For example, gable end wall or garden wall with raking cut.
Back to Duty
B1: Put health, safety and wellbeing first.
Back to Duty
B2: Consider the environment when using resources and carrying out processes.
Back to Duty
B3: Take ownership of given work.
Back to Duty
B4: Contribute to an inclusive and diverse culture.
Back to Duty
B5: Seek learning and development opportunities.
Back to Duty
B6: Team-focus to meet team goals including, considering the wider build team.
Back to Duty
English and maths qualifications form a mandatory part of all apprenticeships and must be completed before an apprentice can pass through gateway. The requirements are detailed in the current version of the apprenticeship funding rules.
V1.2
This document explains the requirements for end-point assessment (EPA) for the bricklayer apprenticeship. End-point assessment organisations (EPAOs) must follow this when designing and delivering the EPA.
Bricklayer apprentices, their employers and training providers should read this document.
A full-time bricklayer apprentice typically spends 24 months on-programme (this means in training before the gateway). The apprentice must spend at least 12 months on-programme and complete the required amount of off-the-job training in line with the apprenticeship funding rules.
The apprentice must complete their training and meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA. The EPA will assess occupational competence.
An approved EPAO must conduct the EPA for this apprenticeship. Employers must select an approved EPAO from the register of end-point assessment organisations (RoEPAO).
This EPA has 3 assessment methods.
The grades available for each assessment method are below.
Assessment method 1 - multiple-choice test:
Assessment method 2 - interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:
Assessment method 3 - practical assessment with questions:
The result from each assessment method is combined to decide the overall apprenticeship grade. The following grades are available for the apprenticeship:
|
On-programme - typically 24 months
|
The apprentice must:
|
|---|---|
|
End-point assessment gateway
|
The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice has attained sufficient KSBs to complete the apprenticeship. The apprentice must:
For the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence, the apprentice must submit a portfolio of evidence.
The apprentice must submit the gateway evidence to their EPAO, including any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO. |
|
End-point assessment - typically 3 months
|
The grades available for each assessment method are below
Multiple-choice test:
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:
Practical assessment with questions:
Overall EPA and apprenticeship can be graded:
|
|
Re-sits and re-takes
|
|
The EPA is taken in the EPA period. The EPA period starts when the EPAO confirms the gateway requirements have been met and is typically 3 months.
The EPAO should confirm the gateway requirements have been met and the EPA should start as quickly as possible.
The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice has attained sufficient KSBs to complete the apprenticeship. The employer may take advice from the apprentice's training provider, but the employer must make the decision. The apprentice will then enter the gateway.
The apprentice must meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA.
They must:
Portfolio of evidence requirements:
The apprentice must compile a portfolio of evidence during the on-programme period of the apprenticeship. It should only contain evidence related to the KSBs that will be assessed by this assessment method. It will typically contain 10 discrete pieces of evidence. Evidence must be mapped against the KSBs. Evidence may be used to demonstrate more than one KSB; a qualitative as opposed to quantitative approach is suggested.
Evidence sources may include:
This is not a definitive list; other evidence sources can be included.
The portfolio of evidence should not include reflective accounts or any methods of self-assessment. Any employer contributions should focus on direct observation of performance (for example, witness statements) rather than opinions. The evidence provided should be valid and attributable to the apprentice; the portfolio of evidence should contain a statement from the employer and apprentice confirming this.
The EPAO should not assess the portfolio of evidence directly as it underpins the interview. The independent assessor should review the portfolio of evidence to prepare questions for the interview. They are not required to provide feedback after this review.
The apprentice must submit the gateway evidence to their EPAO, including any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO.
The assessment methods can be delivered in any order.
The result of one assessment method does not need to be known before starting the next.
In the multiple-choice test, the apprentice answers questions in a controlled and invigilated environment. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge mapped to this assessment method.
This assessment method is being used because:
it allows for the efficient testing of knowledge where there is a right or wrong answer
it allows for flexibility in terms of when, where and how it is taken.
The multiple-choice test must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.
The test must be computer based.
The test will consist of 40 multiple-choice questions.
Multiple-choice questions must have four options, including one correct answer.
The apprentice must be given at least 14 days’ notice of the date and time of the test.
The apprentice must have 60 minutes to complete the test.
The test is closed book which means that the apprentice cannot refer to reference books or materials whilst taking the test.
The test must be taken in the presence of an invigilator who is the responsibility of the EPAO. The EPAO must have an invigilation policy setting out how the test must be conducted. It must state the ratio of apprentices to invigilators for the setting and allow the test to take place in a secure way.
The EPAO must verify the apprentice’s identity and ensure invigilation of the apprentice for example, with 360-degree cameras and screen sharing facilities.
The EPAO is responsible for the security of the test including the arrangements for on-line testing. The EPAO must ensure that their security arrangements maintain the validity and reliability of the test.
The test must be marked by an independent assessor or marker employed by the EPAO. They must follow a marking scheme produced by the EPAO. Marking by computer is allowed where question types support this.
A correct answer gets 1 mark.
Any incorrect or missing answers get zero marks.
The EPAO is responsible for overseeing the marking of the test.
The apprentice must take the test in a suitably controlled and invigilated environment that is a quiet room, free from distractions and influence. The EPAO must check the venue is suitable.
The test could take place remotely if the appropriate technology and systems are in place to prevent malpractice.
Question and resource development
The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO
should maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.
The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.
The EPAO must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.
The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the test:
The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.
In the interview, an independent assessor asks the apprentice questions. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their portfolio of evidence.
This assessment method is being used because:
it allows the apprentice to be assessed against KSBs which may not naturally occur during the practical assessment
it is underpinned by a portfolio of evidence, enabling the apprentice to demonstrate the application of skills and behaviours as well as knowledge
it allows for testing of responses where there are a number of potential answers that could not be tested through a multiple-choice test
it is cost-effective.
The interview must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.
An independent assessor must conduct and assess the interview.
The purpose of the independent assessor's questions will be to allow the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method at the highest possible grade.
The EPAO must give an apprentice 14 days' notice of the interview.
The independent assessor must have at least 2 weeks to review the supporting documentation.
The apprentice must have access to their portfolio of evidence during the interview.
The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their portfolio of evidence however, the portfolio of evidence is not directly assessed.
The interview must last for 60 minutes. The independent assessor can increase the time of the interview by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to respond to a question if necessary.
The independent assessor must ask at least 10 questions. The independent assessor must use the questions from the EPAO’s question bank.
The independent assessor must make the grading decision.
The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:
The interview must take place in a suitable venue selected by the EPAO for example, the EPAO’s or employer’s premises.
The interview should take place in a quiet room, free from distractions and influence.
The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO must maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.
The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.
The EPAO must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.
The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:
The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.
In a practical assessment with questions, an independent assessor observes the apprentice completing a task or series of tasks set by the EPAO. The EPAO decides where it takes place. The assessment environment must closely relate to the apprentice’s natural working environment. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
This assessment method is being used because:
The practical assessment with questions must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.
An independent assessor must conduct and assess the practical assessment with questions.
The independent assessor must only observe up to four apprentices at a time to ensure quality and rigour. They must be as unobtrusive as possible.
The EPAO must give an apprentice 14 days' notice of the . practical assessment with questions
The practical assessment with questions must take 12 hours.
The independent assessor can increase the time of the practical assessment with questions by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to complete a task or respond to a question if necessary.
The practical assessment with questions may take place in parts but must be completed over 2 working day. A working day is typically considered to be 7.5 hours long. The reason for this split is to provide sufficient time for the apprentice to complete all elements of the practical task.
The EPAO must manage invigilation of the apprentice during the assessment, to maintain security of the EPA, in line with their malpractice policy. This includes breaks and moving between locations.
The independent assessor must explain to the apprentice the format and timescales of the practical assessment with questions before it starts. This does not count towards the assessment time.
The independent assessor must observe the following during the practical assessment:
Construction of a section of stretcher bond brick and standard block cavity wall (minimum brick face size of 1565mm length and 900mm height) with corner return (minimum brick face size of 665mm length and 900mm height), incorporating:
a minimum opening size of 450mm length and 450mm height with pre-formed cavity closures
partial fill insulation and wall tie retaining clips
fire stopping
damp proof course (DPC)
wall ties
weep holes
a lintel with brick soldier course
cavity tray
brick on edge sill with projection
two applied finishes to the brick mortar joints, one of which must be half-round.
The stretcher bond brick and standard block cavity wall must be compliant with building regulations.
To minimise predictability in future versions of the assessment, a range of different scenarios will be incorporated into the cavity wall assessment. For example, differential window positions, brick face lengths, sill projections, brick jointing finishes and the use of contrasting bricks for brick sills and soldier courses etc.
It is anticipated that a competent bricklayer at this level will be able to handle 25 bricks per hour or 12 standard blocks per hour when carrying out standard cavity wall work or 15 bricks per hour when carrying out brick sills and soldier courses.
Typically, 60 minutes should be allocated within the EPA total time to interpret and extract relevant information from drawings, specifications and work instructions. This time will also enable estimation of resources and initial setting out.
Typically, 60 minutes should be allocated within the EPA total time to allow for the installation of fire stopping, lintel, cavity tray, weep holes, DPC, insulation and pre-formed cavity closures.
KSBs observed, and answers to questions must be documented by the independent assessor. The independent assessor will make all grading decisions in line with specification tolerances and grading descriptors. An additional competent person may be present to mix mortar and move materials as required.
Specification tolerances:
The following must be installed in line with building regulation requirements:
fire stopping
DPC
wall ties
weep holes
lintel
cavity tray
These activities provide the apprentice with the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
The independent assessor must ask questions. The purpose of the questions is to explore aspects of the KSBs not demonstrated in the practical assessment and show depth of understanding.
Questioning can occur during practical assessment. The time for questions asked during the practical assessment is included in the overall assessment time.
Questioning must occur during the practical assessment. The time for questioning is included in the overall assessment time.
The independent assessor must ask at least 6 questions during the practical assessment. To remain as unobtrusive as possible, the independent assessor should ask questions during natural breaks in work rather than disrupting the apprentice’s flow. The independent assessor must use the questions from their EPAO’s question bank or create their own questions in line with the EPAO’s training.
The independent assessor can ask follow-up questions to clarify answers given by the apprentice. These questions are in addition to the above set number of questions for the practical assessment with questions.
The independent assessor must make the grading decision. The independent assessor must assess the practical assessment and responses to questions holistically when deciding the grade.
The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:
The practical assessment with questions must take place in a simulated environment selected by the EPAO for example, the EPAO’s or employer’s premises. The simulated environment must relate to the apprentice’s natural work environment. Equipment and resources needed for the practical assessment with questions must be provided by the EPAO, who can liaise with the employer to provide these.
The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO must maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.
The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.
The EPAO must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of tasks and questions in the case of re-sits and retakes, to minimise predictability.
The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the practical assessment with questions:
The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.
Fail - does not meet pass criteria
|
Theme
KSBs
|
Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors
|
Distinction
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors
|
|---|---|---|
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Walling techniques
K16 K30 S13 S22 |
Describes how they set out and build brick solid walling with cappings in line with drawings and specifications or work instructions. (K16, S13) Describes how they set out and build brick walls with a raking cut in line with drawings and specifications or work instructions. (K30, S22)
|
None. |
|
Defects and repair
K24 S16 |
Describes how they carry out basic construction defect repairs in line with work instructions and explains the possible causes of the constructional defect. (K24, S16) |
Explains the impact to the business of construction related defects. (K24, S16) |
|
Teamwork and Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
K27 K28 S19 S20 B4 B6 |
Describes how they apply team working principles to achieve their own teams’ goals and contribute to the wider team’s project goals. (K27, S20, B6) Describes how they take account of individual needs and follow guidance in relation to equity, diversity, and inclusion in line with regulations. (K28, S19, B4) |
Justifies why equity, diversity and inclusivity legislation is important in the construction industry. (K28, S19) |
|
Environmental and sustainability
K4 S3 B2 |
Describes how they comply with environmental and sustainability legislation and guidance, sort resources for re-use, recycling and disposal. Explains how the construction industry can have a wider impact on the environment through the efficient use of resources, surface water contamination and safe waste disposal. (K4, S3, B2) |
Explains how following sustainability regulations standards, and guidelines reduces the impact on the wider environment. (K4, S3) |
|
Protecting work and materials
K25 S17 |
Explains how they protect finished work and materials from the effects of weather and damage caused by continuing construction. (K25, S17) |
None. |
|
Communication
K26 S18 |
Describes how they use verbal communication techniques and construction terminology which reflects the audience. (K26, S18) |
None.
|
|
CPD and Wellbeing
K31 S21 B5 |
Outlines learning and development they complete and record to support competence in their role. (B5) Describes mental and physical health considerations of themselves and others and identifies sources of support available for themselves and others. (K31, S21) |
None. |
|
Mixing Mortar
K20 S14 |
Explains the use of mechanical mixers, silos and pre-mixed mortar. Describes how they hand mix mortar to ratio using gauging methods in line with specifications or work instructions. (K20, S14) |
Explains the advantages of using mechanical mortar mixing methods and pre-mixed mortar over hand mixing techniques when carrying out bricklaying activities. (K20, S14) |
Fail - does not meet pass criteria
|
Theme
KSBs
|
Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors
|
Distinction
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors
|
|---|---|---|
|
Drawings and Specifications
K10 K12 S5 S6 |
Reads and interprets drawings and specifications as required to support completion of the cavity wall activity in line with instructions. (K10, S5) Estimates and selects the quantity of materials as required for completion of the cavity wall activity. (K12, S6) |
Explains the importance of correctly reading and interpreting drawings and specifications (K10, S5) |
|
Health and Safety
K2 S1 S2 S7 B1 |
Prioritises health and safety and complies with health and safety regulations, standards and guidance. (S1, B1) Selects and uses personal protective equipment in line with organisational requirements and statutory requirements. (K2, S2) Prepares the work area in line with industry guidance and maintains a safe work area throughout the cavity wall activity. (S7) |
Justifies the use of personal protective equipment appropriate to the occupation and the cavity wall activity. (K2, S2) |
|
Tools and materials
K13 S8 S9 |
Selects and uses hand tools as required for the completion of the cavity wall activity. Applies techniques to maintain hand tools and stores in line with industry guidance and organisational requirements. (K13, S8, S9)
|
Justifies why hand tools should be correctly maintained and stored. (K13, S9) |
|
Cavity Wall
K17 K21 K22 K23 K29 S4 S10 S11 S12 S15 B3 |
Applies setting out techniques to set out the cavity wall with return and opening in line with drawings and specification. (K21, S10) Taking ownership of the work, constructs a stretcher bond brick and block cavity wall with attached return and opening in line with building regulations, drawings, specification and specification tolerances. (K22, K23, S4, S11, B3) Applies techniques to measure and cut bricks and standard blocks with hand tools as required for the completion of the cavity wall. Ensures the cuts are carried out in line with specification tolerances. (K29, S15) Applies a minimum of two facing brick joint finishing techniques to the cavity wall brickwork, ensuring full joints in line with drawings and specifications and building regulations. (K17, S12) |
Justifies the importance of accurate setting out and setting out in line with construction drawings. (K21, S10) Explains the advantages of brick jointing methods for external walls. (K17, S12)
|
| Grade | Minimum marks required | Maximum marks required |
|---|---|---|
| Fail | 0 | 24 |
| Pass | 25 | 32 |
| Distinction | 33 | 40 |
Performance in the EPA determines the overall grade of:
An independent assessor must individually grade the: interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence and practical assessment with questions in line with this EPA plan.
The EPAO must combine the individual assessment method grades to determine the overall EPA grade.
If the apprentice fails one assessment method or more, they will be awarded an overall fail.
To achieve an overall pass, the apprentice must achieve at least a pass in all the assessment methods. To achieve an overall EPA merit, the apprentice must gain a distinction in at least two of the assessment methods and a pass in the other. To achieve an overall EPA distinction, the apprentice must gain a distinction in all the assessment methods.
Grades from individual assessment methods must be combined in the following way to determine the grade of the EPA overall.
| Multiple-choice test | Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence | Practical assessment with questions | Overall Grading |
|---|---|---|---|
| Any grade | Any grade | Fail | Fail |
| Any grade | Fail | Any grade | Fail |
| Fail | Any grade | Any grade | Fail |
| Pass | Pass | Pass | Pass |
| Pass | Distinction | Pass | Pass |
| Distinction | Pass | Pass | Pass |
| Pass | Pass | Distinction | Pass |
| Distinction | Distinction | Pass | Merit |
| Pass | Distinction | Distinction | Merit |
| Distinction | Pass | Distinction | Merit |
| Distinction | Distinction | Distinction | Distinction |
If the apprentice fails one or more assessment methods they can take a re-sit or a re-take at their employer’s discretion. The apprentice’s employer needs to agree that a re-sit or re-take is appropriate. A re-sit does not need further learning, whereas a re-take does.
The apprentice should have a supportive action plan to prepare for a re-sit or a re-take.
The employer and EPAO agree the timescale for a re-sit or re-take. A re-sit is typically taken within 3 months of the EPA outcome notification. The timescale for a re-take is dependent on how much re-training is required and is typically taken within 6 months of the EPA outcome notification.
Failed assessment methods must be re-sat or re-taken within a 6-month period from the EPA outcome notification, otherwise the entire EPA will need to be re-sat or re-taken in full.
Re-sits and re-takes are not offered to an apprentice wishing to move from pass to a higher grade.
The apprentice will get a maximum EPA grade of pass for a re-sit or re-take, unless the EPAO determines there are exceptional circumstances.
| Roles | Responsibilities |
|---|---|
|
Apprentice |
As a minimum, the apprentice should:
|
|
Employer |
As a minimum, the apprentice's employer must:
|
|
EPAO |
As a minimum, the EPAO must:
|
|
Independent assessor |
As a minimum, an independent assessor must:
|
|
Training provider |
As a minimum, the training provider must:
|
|
An additional person required during the practical assessment |
As a minimum, the competent person must:
|
|
Marker |
As a minimum, the marker must:
|
|
Invigilator |
As a minimum, the invigilator must:
|
The EPAO must have reasonable adjustments arrangements for the EPA.
This should include:
Adjustments must maintain the validity, reliability and integrity of the EPA as outlined in this EPA plan.
Internal quality assurance refers to how the EPAO ensures valid, consistent and reliable EPA decisions. The EPAO must adhere to the requirements within the roles and responsibilities section:
The EPAO must also:
Affordability of the EPA will be aided by using at least some of the following:
Professional body recognition is not relevant to this occupational apprenticeship.
| Knowledge | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
K1
Awareness of health and safety regulations, standards, and guidance and impact on role. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (CoSHH). Fire safety. Health and Safety at Work Act. Asbestos awareness. Manual handling. signage, fire extinguishers. Safety signage. Situational awareness. Slips, trips, and falls. Working in confined spaces. Working at height. Electrical safety respiratory protective equipment (RPE), dust suppression. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K2
Safety control equipment and how to use personal protective equipment (PPE). Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K3
Safe systems of work: Site inductions, toolbox talks, risk assessments, method statements and hazard identification in the work area. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K4
Impact of the sector on the environment: Efficient use of resources. Recycling, reuse, surface water contamination and safe disposal of waste. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K5
The importance and considerations of the environment and sustainability: Thermal qualities, airtightness and ventilation in buildings. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K6
Principles of building: Foundations, roofs, walls, cavity step trays, floors, utilities and services, insulation, fire, moisture and air protection, damp proof courses, the use of brick ties and quality of materials. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K7
Standards and regulations associated with bricklaying activities: British standards, building regulations and warranty provider standards. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K8
Materials and their characteristics: Bricks and blocks, efflorescence, mortar, damp proof courses (DPC), wall ties, plasticisers, concrete and steel lintels, Rolled Steel Joist (RSJ), fire stopping, insulation, cement and building sand. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K9
Modern methods of construction: Rapid build technology, precast components, corner profiles, alternative frame and cladding systems, masonry support systems. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K10
Methods of interpreting and extracting relevant information from drawings and specifications. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K11
Basic principles of digital design and modelling systems. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K12
Simple resource estimation techniques: Quantity of bricks and blocks, amount of mortar, quantity of wall ties, DPCs, cavity trays and lintels. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K13
Hand tool use, maintenance and storage: Levels, measures, hammers, bolsters, brick hammers, trowels, brick jointer, line blocks and pins, scutch, chariot and brick clamps. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K14
Power tool use and limitations: Disc cutters, mixers and drills. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K15
Bond types: English bond, flemish bond, garden wall bonds and broken bond. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K16
Brick solid wall setting out, construction and capping methods. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K17
Joint finishes: Half round, flush, weather struck and recessed. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K18
Principles of basic decorative walling and piers: projecting and contrasting brick, isolated and attached pier, banding. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K19
Principles of the use of expansion joints. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K20
Mixing Mortar: Ratios, silos, pre-mixed, gauging, hand mixing and mechanical mixing. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K21
Cavity wall setting out techniques: Bricks and blocks, openings and levels, use of profiles, gauge rods and squares. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K22
Cavity wall construction using stretcher bond brick and block walling, forming openings, closing cavities. selection and placement of wall ties, insulation, damp proof courses (DPCs), cavity trays, weep holes, lintels and fire stopping. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K23
Brick on edge and soldier courses: setting out and construction techniques. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K24
Defects and repair: Construction defects and repair methods. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K25
Methods of protecting materials and work: Frost, water and construction damage. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K26
Verbal communication techniques and construction terminology. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K27
Principles of good team working. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K28
Inclusion, equity and diversity in the workplace. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K29
Methods of cutting bricks and blocks using hand tools. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K30
Brick walls with raking cut: Setting out and construction techniques. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K31
Well-being: Mental and physical health considerations in self and others and how to access support. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
| Skill | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
S1
Comply with health and safety regulations, standards, and guidance. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S2
Identify and use personal protective equipment (PPE). Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S3
Comply with environmental and sustainability regulations, standards, and guidance. Segregate resources for reuse, recycling and disposal. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S4
Comply with industry regulations, standards, and guidance. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S5
Read and interpret information from drawings and specifications. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S6
Estimate and select required resources: For example, the quantity of bricks and blocks, mortar, wall ties and insulation. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S7
Prepare and maintain a safe working area. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S8
Select and use hand tools. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S9
Maintain and store hand tools. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S10
Set out brick and block cavity wall to given tolerances, including an opening. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S11
Construct a stretcher bond brick and block cavity wall with return and opening to given tolerances, including installing a lintel with soldiers, brick and edge sill, closure around opening, insulation, fire stopping, cavity tray, damp proof course (DPC) and weep holes. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S12
Apply joint finishes: For example, half round, flush, weather struck and recessed. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S13
Set out and construct a simple brick solid wall with capping. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S14
Gauge and hand mix mortar to ratio. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S15
Measure and cut bricks and blocks using hand tools, to given tolerances. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S16
Carry out a simple repair: For example, replacing damaged bricks. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S17
Protect materials and finished work. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S18
Verbally communicate with others, applying construction terminology. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S19
Follow equity, diversity and inclusion guidance. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S20
Applies team working principles to their own and the wider build team. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S21
Identifies well-being support available to self and others. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S22
Construct a brick wall with raking cut. For example, gable end wall or garden wall with raking cut. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
| Behaviour | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
B1
Put health, safety and wellbeing first. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
B2
Consider the environment when using resources and carrying out processes. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
B3
Take ownership of given work. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
B4
Contribute to an inclusive and diverse culture. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
B5
Seek learning and development opportunities. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
B6
Team-focus to meet team goals including, considering the wider build team. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Walling techniques
K16 K30 S13 S22 |
Brick solid wall setting out, construction and capping methods. (K16) Brick walls with raking cut: Setting out and construction techniques. (K30) |
Set out and construct a simple brick solid wall with capping. (S13) Construct a brick wall with raking cut. For example, gable end wall or garden wall with raking cut. (S22) |
None |
|
Defects and repair
K24 S16 |
Defects and repair: Construction defects and repair methods. (K24) |
Carry out a simple repair: For example, replacing damaged bricks. (S16) |
None |
|
Teamwork and Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
K27 K28 S19 S20 B4 B6 |
Principles of good team working. (K27) Inclusion, equity and diversity in the workplace. (K28) |
Follow equity, diversity and inclusion guidance. (S19) Applies team working principles to their own and the wider build team. (S20) |
Contribute to an inclusive and diverse culture. (B4) Team-focus to meet team goals including, considering the wider build team. (B6) |
|
Environmental and sustainability
K4 S3 B2 |
Impact of the sector on the environment: Efficient use of resources. Recycling, reuse, surface water contamination and safe disposal of waste. (K4) |
Comply with environmental and sustainability regulations, standards, and guidance. Segregate resources for reuse, recycling and disposal. (S3) |
Consider the environment when using resources and carrying out processes. (B2) |
|
Protecting work and materials
K25 S17 |
Methods of protecting materials and work: Frost, water and construction damage. (K25) |
Protect materials and finished work. (S17) |
None |
|
Communication
K26 S18 |
Verbal communication techniques and construction terminology. (K26) |
Verbally communicate with others, applying construction terminology. (S18) |
None |
|
CPD and Wellbeing
K31 S21 B5 |
Well-being: Mental and physical health considerations in self and others and how to access support. (K31) |
Identifies well-being support available to self and others. (S21) |
Seek learning and development opportunities. (B5) |
|
Mixing Mortar
K20 S14 |
Mixing Mortar: Ratios, silos, pre-mixed, gauging, hand mixing and mechanical mixing. (K20) |
Gauge and hand mix mortar to ratio. (S14) |
None |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Drawings and Specifications
K10 K12 S5 S6 |
Methods of interpreting and extracting relevant information from drawings and specifications. (K10) Simple resource estimation techniques: Quantity of bricks and blocks, amount of mortar, quantity of wall ties, DPCs, cavity trays and lintels. (K12) |
Read and interpret information from drawings and specifications. (S5) Estimate and select required resources: For example, the quantity of bricks and blocks, mortar, wall ties and insulation. (S6) |
None |
|
Health and Safety
K2 S1 S2 S7 B1 |
Safety control equipment and how to use personal protective equipment (PPE). (K2) |
Comply with health and safety regulations, standards, and guidance. (S1) Identify and use personal protective equipment (PPE). (S2) Prepare and maintain a safe working area. (S7) |
Put health, safety and wellbeing first. (B1) |
|
Tools and materials
K13 S8 S9 |
Hand tool use, maintenance and storage: Levels, measures, hammers, bolsters, brick hammers, trowels, brick jointer, line blocks and pins, scutch, chariot and brick clamps. (K13) |
Select and use hand tools. (S8) Maintain and store hand tools. (S9) |
None |
|
Cavity Wall
K17 K21 K22 K23 K29 S4 S10 S11 S12 S15 B3 |
Joint finishes: Half round, flush, weather struck and recessed. (K17) Cavity wall setting out techniques: Bricks and blocks, openings and levels, use of profiles, gauge rods and squares. (K21) Cavity wall construction using stretcher bond brick and block walling, forming openings, closing cavities. selection and placement of wall ties, insulation, damp proof courses (DPCs), cavity trays, weep holes, lintels and fire stopping. (K22) Brick on edge and soldier courses: setting out and construction techniques. (K23) Methods of cutting bricks and blocks using hand tools. (K29) |
Comply with industry regulations, standards, and guidance. (S4) Set out brick and block cavity wall to given tolerances, including an opening. (S10) Construct a stretcher bond brick and block cavity wall with return and opening to given tolerances, including installing a lintel with soldiers, brick and edge sill, closure around opening, insulation, fire stopping, cavity tray, damp proof course (DPC) and weep holes. (S11) Apply joint finishes: For example, half round, flush, weather struck and recessed. (S12) Measure and cut bricks and blocks using hand tools, to given tolerances. (S15) |
Take ownership of given work. (B3) |
Contact us about this apprenticeship
| Version | Change detail | Earliest start date | Latest start date | Latest end date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.2 | Standard, End-point assessment and funding band revised | 07/08/2023 | Not set | Not set |
| 1.1 | End-point assessment plan revised | 24/10/2019 | 06/08/2023 | Not set |
| 1.0 | Approved for delivery | 22/06/2018 | 23/10/2019 | Not set |
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