Fulbridge Academy, part of the Four Cs Multi-Academy Trust, welcomed visitors from Ballarat Clarendon College in Australia on 9 July 2025, who flew across the globe to see first-hand the school’s approach to teaching reading, behaviour, and direct instruction.

The visiting team, led by Ballarat Clarendon College’s Deputy Principal, Greg Ashman, who is also Professor in Instructional Design and the author of The Power of Explicit and Direct Instruction and The Truth about Teaching, chose Fulbridge as one of just five UK schools to visit on their research mission to explore best practices in reading, behaviour and teaching.

During their visit, the Australian team explored Fulbridge Academy’s reading curriculum, which aligns with Christopher Such’s evidence-informed approach to reading, as well as its phonics teaching using Sounds-Write. They also saw how explicit and direct instruction methods were being seamlessly integrated into the curriculum.

The visitors spent time observing lessons across the school, experiencing how traditional behaviour management rooted in self-discipline and kindness creates a calm, purposeful learning environment where children rise to high expectations with confidence and joy.

Mr Ben Erskine, Executive Principal of the Four Cs MAT, shared insights into their approach to leadership, behaviour, and teaching and learning, while Fulbridge Academy’s leadership team spoke about curriculum design, assessment, and lesson structures. The school’s Reading and Phonics Lead also explained how a systematic, research-aligned approach helps children learn to read successfully.

Speaking about the visit, Mr Erskine said:

“It was a privilege to welcome colleagues from Ballarat Clarendon College and to showcase the outstanding work happening daily at Fulbridge Academy. Our team and children demonstrated what is possible when high expectations are combined with a nurturing, structured approach to learning.”

The visitors were struck by the exceptional standards of behaviour, the students’ attitude to learning, and the evident happiness of the children as they confidently engaged in their learning across the school.

The visit reflects the growing international recognition of Fulbridge Academy’s commitment to delivering a high-quality, knowledge-rich education underpinned by explicit and direct instruction and a rigorous approach to reading, ensuring every child has the best start in life.