Bricklaying Apprenticeship – Corey

Level 2 Bricklaying Apprenticeship

Working alongside his dad at EL Brickwork, Corey Richardson has turned his childhood ambition into a career through his Level 2 Bricklaying Apprenticeship at North Notts College. Combining college learning with practical experience on site, he is developing the skills and confidence to progress in the trade.

Beyond his training, Corey has excelled in the Guild of Bricklayers competitions, winning the Junior Title in 2024 and the Senior Title one year later. He has also been named a finalist for the AoC Student of the Year Awards 2026, representing RNN Group in the Apprentice of the Year category.

Why did you choose to study your course?

“I’ve always wanted to be a bricklayer since I was a little kid. My dad built new houses from the foundations up, and I wanted to follow in his footsteps. When I turned 16, I was old enough to start an apprenticeship, so I joined straight away.

Working with my dad has helped me gain practical experience alongside my course. While I was offered the chance to progress to a Level 3, I feel I already have the core skills needed to work independently in the trade.”

Which skills have you developed during your course?

“My communication skills have improved, and I’ve become more confident. I’ve also learnt about brick bonds, foundations, different wall finishes and jointing styles. 

“Being on site four days a week means I get to see how building standards and regulations work in practice on real jobs, rather than just reading about them.”

How did College support you during your studies?

“College has supported me throughout my apprenticeship. The tutors have pushed me to progress, helped me with my paperwork and encouraged me with my maths and English.

“Mick Cox has always been there for me, as well as the practical tutors who have helped me develop my skills and improve throughout the course.”

What part of the course have you enjoyed the most?

“My favourite part has been the practical work, followed by competitions like SkillsBuild and the Guild of Bricklayers, where I reached the nationals twice.

I also really enjoyed learning from different practical tutors. Everyone has their own way of doing things, so learning from different tutors has helped me understand different techniques and approaches.”

Can you share any challenges you have overcome?

“Paperwork has probably been my biggest challenge. Maths and English have also been difficult, but College has encouraged me to keep working on them.

“With encouragement from my tutors, I’ve kept pushing myself and worked through the areas I found most difficult.”

Do you have any advice for future students?

“Keep improving your skills and listen to people, even if you think they’re wrong. Everyone has different knowledge and experience, and you can learn something from them.

“There’s more than one way to do things. Keep challenging yourself, learn from others and find the approach that works best for you.”

Where do you see yourself in five years?

“I’ll still be working with my dad. He’s planning to retire part-time and leave me in charge, so I want to take on more responsibility in the business.

“I’d also like to bring young apprentices into the business, help them develop their skills and pass on what I’ve learnt.”

Find out more about Apprenticeships and Construction courses at North Notts College.