Evidence-based learning.
Close-to-practice research.
Using the rich intellectual resources of the Barker College to facilitate learning and growth through the School and wider community.
Augment, Not Replace: Reframing AI’s Place in the Classroom
There is a growing sense that artificial intelligence is reshaping the conditions under which students learn. Yet, amid the excitement surrounding its capabilities, a more fundamental question remains: what is happening to students’ thinking in the process? A recent report by Lodge and Loble provides a timely opportunity to pause and consider this question more carefully, shifting attention away from the novelty of the technology and towards the cognitive work that sits at the heart of learning.
- Dr Timothy Scott
- 18 March 2026
Keen Kid or Cognitive Innovator?
Earlier this week, my Year 8 History class was practising paragraph writing in preparation for an upcoming assessment. As I moved about the room, a student asked me to review a response he’d written for homework. It was excellent, but it addressed a question I hadn't set or asked him to complete.
- Claire Butler
- 04 March 2026
International Mother Language Day
Saturday was International Mother Language Day. Established by UNESCO in 1999 and formally recognised by the UN General Assembly in 2008, International Mother Language Day promotes awareness of linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism. For UNESCO, such awareness contributes to global citizenship, enabling learners to play an active role in both local and global arenas as they address shared challenges and work towards a more just, peaceful, tolerant, inclusive, secure and sustainable world.
- Dr Timothy Scott
- 24 February 2026
Anticipating 2026
And with Friday's first full school assembly at Barker, there can be no doubt that the 2026 school year has begun. It is a moment that draws all teachers back into the life of the school and, for the Barker Institute, into deeper engagement with those at the heart of our work: students and teachers. For the Barker Institute, it brings a sense of purpose and attentiveness to the year ahead. There is much to look forward to, but also much to hold with care: the responsibility to listen well, to ask good questions, and to ensure that our research continues to serve learning and teaching in thoughtful, ethical and meaningful ways.
- Dr Timothy Scott
- 02 February 2026
The Confident Parent Course - Cohort 3
- Term 1 2026 - 2, 9, 16 and 23 March
- 7:00 - 8:30pm
- The Piazza, Kurrajong Building, Barker College Junior School
The flagship offering of the Parent Institute. A free, four-week course where parents grow, discuss and connect around parenthood.
Year 7 Study Habits – An interactive seminar for parents and Year 7 students to attend together (2026)
- Tuesday 21 April 2026
- 6:30 - 7:45 pm
- Leslie Hall
Year 7 is an opportunity to develop effective study and learning habits. The Barker Institute will be hosting a workshop bringing parents and students together, that they may be on the same page and pursue study success as a team, using the best available information as a guide.
Nurturing Respectful Relationships in the Senior School Years
- Monday 11 May
- 7:00 - 8:30 pm
- The Piazza, Kurrajong Building, Barker College Junior School
Together, we can help our young people build respectful relationships, make wise decisions, and step into adulthood with confidence, clarity, and strong character. Parents are invited to learn expert tips for meaningful conversations with their children.
The Confident Parent Course - Cohort 4
- Term 3 2026 - 3, 10, 17 and 24 March
- 7:00 - 8:30pm
- The Piazza, Kurrajong Building, Barker College Junior School
The flagship offering of the Parent Institute. A free, four-week course where parents grow, discuss and connect around parenthood.
Research Agenda 2026-2027
Our annually published document identifies high-level priority domains bringing together our rich intellectual resources to facilitate learning and growth throughout the school, and the local and global community.