About this course

This one-day professional development course is suitable for bricklayers working within the heritage and construction industry. The aim of the course is to inform your knowledge, and understanding of the materials and tools, and improve your skill and practical techniques in using lime mortar.

The session will cover the Lime Cycle, choosing aggregates, the preparation and aftercare of lime mortar, different mixes, pointing techniques and finishes. Please note a separate four-day course is available for the advanced skill of Tuck Pointing. There will be a consideration of common problems and you will be able to ask your own questions as well as developing your skill at mixing and using lime mortar.

About the tutor

Charles Reilly is a highly experienced craftsman with a passion for repairing heritage brick buildings. As the managing director of Georgian Brickwork Charles leads a small team of specialist bricklayers in Kent. Georgian Brickwork focuses on using traditional methods and materials to repair and restore listed and period properties. Charles started developing his training programme in 2016 to ensure that the knowledge and skills he has are passed on to the next generation of bricklayers.

Who is this course for?

This course is for experienced bricklayers with good trowel skills who want to find out more about using lime mortar rather than cement.

If you are not a bricklayer but want to find out more about Lime Mortar please book a place on Understanding Lime Mortar GB1

How will I be taught?

The course is informal, and learning takes place through discussion, observation, locality tours, and practical opportunities to ‘have a go’. The focus will be on sharing knowledge and developing practical skills. Charles gives individual guided support during the practical sessions. Courses for bricklayers have a maximum of 2/3 students to ensure time for answering individual questions, discussing common problems and sharing tips.

What do I need to bring with me?

We provide

• All tools and training materials
• Tea & Coffee
• H&S equipment such as safety goggles and gloves -but you may bring your own if you prefer.

You need to

• Wear practical comfortable clothes
• Wear protective work boots
• Bring a notepad and pen -if you want to make notes
• Lunch is available to buy from one of The Historic Dockyard eateries. Or you can bring your own lunch and there are outdoor spaces to eat such as the Commissioner’s Garden or the Tennis Court Lawn. For more information visit https://thedockyard.co.uk/plan-your-visit/food-drink/

Travel and Accommodation

The Georgian Brickwork Professional Development Programme is hosted by Heritage Brickwork Training Ltd located in Unit 6 – Craft Workshop The Historic Dockyard Chatham Kent ME4 4TE.  For information about travel options and parking please visit https://thedockyard.co.uk/plan-your-visit/opening-times-directions/

There are lots of places to stay nearby, including

Travelodge Chatham Maritime, Western Ave, Chatham  ME4 4NT

Premier Inn Chatham Blake Ave Gillingham ME7 1GB