In the construction industry you’re never going to be just another brick in the wall. There are so many roles needed to create modern buildings that unique and special talents are called upon.

This means very often you’ll be the hero of the moment, with your handiwork ensuring the success of projects big and small.

One such role is that of the bricklayer, also known as the brickie. A time-honoured profession, it’s withstood every new innovation in construction. So what do you need to know about being a bricklayer?

It’s hands-on art work
For many of us the idea of a 9-to-5 paper-pushing job is the stuff of nightmares. As a bricklayer, however, you can enjoy practical work. Think of it as a cross between creating art and working out – you will constantly be using your hands to form works that will be on public display for a very long time. Huge job satisfaction comes guaranteed.

It’s a natural high
Most of the time you’ll be working in the great outdoors and often at levels that are far from ground level. So, if you love fresh air and don’t mind working your magic in a hard hat at heights, this is the job for you.

You can maximise talents
The ability to follow plans, good hand-eye co-ordination and natural creativity are all important if you want to create the very best structures in bricks and mortar. Just like playing a sport or a musical instrument, practice makes perfect. Once you’re “in the zone” you can enjoy Zen-like progress.

You can help preserve architecture
While much of your time may be spent helping to build brand new houses, you can also find yourself helping to restore ancient walls and chimney stacks. Many important restoration projects rely on the skills of a professional in brickwork and masonry to bring historic buildings back to life.

Lay the foundation stones
You can start off with just a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card and a salary of £15,000 and easily work your way up the career ladder. Work hard and show an attitude of enthusiasm and willingness to learn, and with experience you could find yourself earning £30,000 – or even promoted to site supervisor.