This four-day workshop is designed for experienced bricklayers who want to learn the traditional method of creating a gauged arch. The course covers the geometry of an arch, drawing and creating an arch template, techniques for cutting bricks and different mortar mixes. Practical sessions give you time to develop your skills at drawing an arch, cutting bricks and building a finished gauged arch.
Sessions are led by Charles Reilly, a highly experienced craftsman who specialises in repairing heritage brick buildings. Charles is managing director of Georgian Brickwork and developed the Georgian Brickwork professional development programme in 2016 to pass on traditional skills to the next generation of bricklayers. He provides individual guided support during practical work so students can address common problems and learn useful tips.
The course is informal and learning takes place through discussion, observation, locality tours and hands on practice. Courses for bricklayers are kept small, typically two to three students, to ensure time for individual questions and detailed feedback. Participants should bring basic safety equipment such as goggles and gloves if they prefer to use their own, and a notepad and pen if they want to make notes.
The programme is hosted at the Craft Workshop in The Historic Dockyard, Chatham, Kent. Lunch is available to buy from dockyard eateries or you may bring your own and use the outdoor spaces. For those who are not bricklayers but are interested in gauged arches there is an alternative introductory course available.
