Practical Assessments & Portfolio Building

Module 7: Practical Assessments & Portfolio Building 

This module bridges theory and real-world application, ensuring learners demonstrate technical competence and professional documentation for career advancement.

7.1 Workshop Projects (Complex Structures, Decorative Features)

Project Types & Learning Outcomes

1. Advanced Brick Bonding

• Construct double Flemish bond panels with return corners

• Demonstrate raking cut brickwork for tapered reveals

2. Structural Elements

• Build a segmental arch with 1.2m span

• Create a reinforced brick pier with cavity ties

3. Decorative Features

• Craft dentil course detailing

• Install brick corbelling for ornamental projections

Assessment Criteria

• Dimensional Accuracy (±2mm tolerance on critical dimensions)

• Mortar Consistency (Uniform joint width of 10mm ±1mm)

• Tooling Finish (Concave or weatherstruck joints as specified)

Workshop Tip: Use laser levels and story poles to maintain precision in complex geometries.

7.2 On-Site Work Experience (Simulated or Real Projects)

Real-World Application Scenarios

1. New Build Housing

• Construct cavity walls with insulated partial-fill systems

• Install cavity trays and weep holes to NHBC standards

2. Commercial Refurbishment

• Execute brick slip cladding over existing concrete frames

• Implement movement joints in long elevation walls

3. Heritage Restoration

• Perform lime mortar repointing on Grade II listed facades

• Demonstrate brick indenting techniques for conservation

Simulated Site Protocols

• Morning Briefings (Task allocation, risk review)

• Quality Control Checks (Perpendicularity, line and level verification)

• Progress Documentation (Daily site diary with photographic evidence)

Safety Focus: All participants must conduct toolbox talks on working at height when practicing scaffold bricklaying.

7.3 Creating a Professional Portfolio for Accreditation

Portfolio Components

1. Project Documentation

• Before/during/after photos of workshop and site projects

• Annotated construction drawings showing personal contributions

2. Competency Records

• Signed witness statements from assessors/supervisors

• Dated material calculations (e.g., brick quantities for arches)

3. Certification Evidence

• Test certificates (e.g., mortar cube strength results)

• CSCS card and CPD training records

Digital Presentation Standards

• Format: PDF portfolio with hyperlinked sections

• File Naming: "Surname_Project_Date" (e.g., Smith_Arch_Jan2024)

• Accessibility: Include alt-text for images to meet DDA requirements

Pro Tip: Use BIM screenshots for complex projects to showcase technical understanding.

Why This Module is Critical

• NVQ Verification: 80% of Level 3 assessment relies on portfolio evidence

• Career Development: Contractors require portfolios for tendering on projects

• Earning Potential: Accredited bricklayers earn 25% more than non-certified peers

Practical Task:

• Compile a 10-page sample portfolio featuring one workshop and one site project