Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and He will make straight your paths.”
Proverbs 3:5-6
Middle School Handbook
Honor Non Honores
Mission
An Anglican community inspiring every learner every experience every day
Vision
To be a leader in Christian education that is characterised by a global vision that inspires hope
Values
Commitment
Compassion
Courage
Integrity
Respect
We acknowledge the Dharug, Darkinjung, Wonnarua and Yolŋu peoples who are the traditional custodians of the land on which Barker College, Darkinjung Barker, Ngarralingayil Barker and Dhupuma Barker stand. We pay respect to the Elders past, present and emerging of the Dharug, Darkinjung, Wonnarua and Yolŋu nations and extend that respect to other Indigenous people within the Barker College community.
Introduction
The Middle School presents you with a diverse range of opportunities to grow.
Your potential is only limited by your effort and we seek to guide and motivate you to thrive.
I encourage all students to embrace the myriad of experiences available in the Middle School. Try new things, challenge yourself and be prepared to push yourself outside of your comfort zone, both in the academic and cocurricular spheres.
I am confident that the challenges you face can be overcome with a positive attitude, determination, grace and appropriate doses of good humour.
My wish is that your journey through the Middle School is a meaningful, rewarding and fun experience.
Tim Eastman Head of Middle School
Wellbeing
Barker College makes particular provision for the academic care of students and their parents/guardians with respect to the personal development and academic progress of each student. Opportunity is made during the ten day cycle to develop various aspects of pastoral care.
Middle School House System
All students in the Middle School are placed in one of 16 Houses under the care of a Head of House. Each Head of House is assisted by Connect Group Leaders who are assigned to care for a particular year group of students. Students in Year 9 can apply and be appointed to House Leadership positions. Heads of House are the first point of contact in the School for students and parents/ guardians for all matters. They are responsible for supervising and reporting on the progress of the students in their House.
Middle School Seniors
Seniors are students appointed from Year 9 who have a position of responsibility and who lead key areas within the Middle School including academic life, Crusaders, Wellbeing, Performing Arts, Music, Sport, Round Square and Social Justice. Middle School Seniors work with the House Leaders and form the Student Leadership team.
Reporting to Parents/Guardians
In the Middle School staff undertake progressive reporting which provides regular feedback in Canvas. This feedback is directed at the student and aims to move the learner forward. Learner Agency feedback is also provided to students and parents in Terms 1 and 3 through Canvas. At the end of each semester a formal report is made available to parents/guardians via the My Barker portal indicating their academic progress throughout the semester.
A parent-teacher interview evening is provided for all students in Years 7 – 9. Year 9 students are also provided with a Certificate of Attainment at the completion of their final year in Middle School, summarising their achievements and personal contribution to the life of the Middle School.
Senior Staff
In addition to the Head of House, there are other senior teachers who administer sections of the Middle School and who are available to provide specialist advice.
They are: The Head of Middle School; Deans of Middle School; The School Psychologists; The Dean of Careers and External Programs; The Director of Studies; The Deputy Heads. Where appropriate, students may be referred to these senior staff for advice, support, disciplinary action or counselling.
Student Services Staff
The Student Services staff monitor attendance, lost property and uniform, and assist in maintaining an orderly environment for learning.
Counselling and Careers
The School Psychologists are available to speak to all students and parents/guardians. They may approach the Psychologists directly for any assistance and advice, or may be referred to them by the student’s Head of House. The Dean of Careers and External Programs is available to assist students in the Middle School. The Director of Studies administers the timetable, students’ academic course choices and NESA entries.
Barker Values
The Barker College Middle School is a place where young people are prepared for active and responsible participation in the community. Barker is a place where each member of the community is affirmed, valued and challenged. Five core values are identified as central to these principles. Members of the Middle School community should strive to be aware of and adhere to these values at all times.
• Commitment
• Compassion
• Courage
• Integrity
• Respect
General Information
Travel to School
Classes start at 8.30am. Students are responsible for their lateness and for the disturbance of lessons caused by late arrival. They should therefore arrive at School no later than 10 minutes before the commencement of class.
Middle School latecomers should report to the Student Services staff office, sign in, and have their diary stamped before proceeding to class. Students will not be allowed to enter class without diaries being stamped.
If a student is at School but arrives late to class, after the roll has been marked, they will be marked absent unless they sign in with one of the Student Services staff. In this instance they will be marked as “late unexplained” and a note or email is required to explain this lateness.
The public judges the School by the behaviour of its students on trains, buses and in public places. Students are expected to be guided by considerations of safety and common sense.
Students should cross roads only at pedestrian crossings or at the traffic lights.
Students going to and from School must ensure their behaviour is exemplary when in and around shopping centres or shops. Students may not eat or drink whilst in the street, walking through shopping centres or on public transport. If they wish to eat they must sit in an appropriate area.
Government Opal Card
Students moving from the Junior School to the Middle School must reapply for a new Opal Card.
New passes must be applied for if you change your address.
All students that are new to Barker College should apply for their School Opal Card via: https://apps.transport.nsw.gov.au/ssts/home#/
After applying online, your card will be posted to your residential address.
Lost & Stolen Opal Cards
To order a replacement Opal card please visit: apps.transport.nsw.gov.au/ssts/ reportPass#
Barker Buses
The School provides Barker buses to and from the Northern Beaches, Narrabeen, Terrey Hills, Balgowlah, St Ives, Northbridge, Cammeray and Arcadia. Further details can be found on our website including application for termly passes.
Absence from School
All students are expected to attend all day, every School day of the year except:
• Where illness prevents attendance
• Where leave has been granted by the Head of Barker College, Deputy Head or Head of Middle School.
In the event of a student feeling unwell, they must report to the School nurse in the School Health Centre.
The nurse may give permission on grounds of health for absence from class and for students to return home. Students selected for a School or House team must play for that team unless they are ill. If unable to play for any special reason, they must apply to the Director of Sport - Operations in good time for exemption.
Requests for leave for one or two days should be made in advance in writing to the Head of Middle School. These requests should be emailed to the Personal Assistant to the Head of Middle School at JMcAndrew@barker.nsw.edu.au.
Requests for leave of absence for more than a few days, should be addressed to the Deputy Head Student Experience via an email to the Personal Assistant to the Deputy Head at studentexperienceoffice@barker.nsw.edu.
au
If the leave involves overseas travel, in order to meet legislative requirements, please attach in this email the completed Application for Extended Leave form found on the School Portal.
NB: additional documentation may be required to support this type of leave request.
If a student is absent then parents/guardians are asked, if possible, to email the School before 9.30am to absent@barker.nsw.edu.
au Alternatively you may wait until you receive a text message to your mobile phone, from the Student Service staff office around 10.30 am, requesting acknowledgement and explanation of your child’s absence. Either an email or a reply to the text message will serve as an absent notification for our records.
If an email or text message has not been received by the School, then we will require a note from parents/guardians stating your
child’s name, year, House, date of absence and reason for absence. This letter should be sent to the Student Services staff on returning to School at absent@barker.nsw.edu.au.
Students are expected to remain at school until all co-curricular obligations are completed unless leave has been granted by the member of staff responsible for the activity.
Students may not leave the School grounds during school hours without the express permission of the Head of Middle School or the Deputy Head.
Textbooks
Student textbooks will be available in digital and/or hard copy format, dependent on subject. Students will also need exercise books and other stationery items. The 2025 textbook list will be available in Term 4, 2024 for purchase through our textbook supplier, Box of Books, for delivery to your preferred address.
General Information
Mobile Devices and Property
Students must show regard for other students’ property as well as their own.
All property must be properly marked with the student’s name. Lost property is managed by Student Services staff and is held in theh Student Service Hub. Students’ belongings should not be left at the School overnight. Books and bags should be locked in lockers and not in classrooms or outside where they will be subject to the effects of heat or rain.
Mobile computing devices should be used in accordance with the Barker Technology Acceptable Use Agreement and the Student Code of Behaviour contained in the School Diary. Students accept full responsibility for the safety and security of any mobile computing devices. (Teachers may allow the use of mobile devices in classes when they deem it appropriate. Students must respect the teacher’s instructions and use any device appropriately).
Care of and Access to School Facilities
Students are expected to treat school property with respect and care.
There may be no eating, drinking nor unwrapping of food in classrooms, in the Chapel, Leslie Hall, Rosewood Centre or the Aquatic Centre.
Chewing gum is not permitted.
Possession of knives, fireworks and water pistols at school is not permitted.
Liquid paper correction fluid is not permitted at school.
Except under the direction of a member of staff, classrooms must not be used before school, at recess, at lunchtime or after school. Specialist classrooms may be entered only when staff are present. Furniture should not be moved from its original location
without the permission of a member of staff concerned.
The Library may be used only at times stated and quietness must be observed entering or leaving, as well as inside the Library.
Students may not enter the Rosewood Centre court areas without the permission of an authorised sports teacher. Equipment may only be used in the presence of a supervising member of staff.
Students may not enter the Aquatic Centre unless the Aquatic Centre Head Coach, or a member of staff appointed by the Head Coach to be responsible for their safety and control, is present. Behaviour in the Aquatic Centre must be guided by considerations of safety. No running or ‘chasing’ is allowed. Common sense and decency must prevail. Any practice which is harmful, dangerous or unhygienic must not occur. Students have access to the pools only at designated times. These are notified clearly at the pool entrance.
Students may not enter the Changing Rooms (except when participating in sports), the Maintenance Areas, the Staff Hub, Staff Offices and the Tuckshop.
Sports fields may only be used for organised team practices or games under the direction of a member of staff. Ball games are not permitted above Bowman Field. Lawns are not to be used as thoroughfares.
At lunchtime Bowman Field and the courts in the Rosewood Centre are available for ball games.
The Leslie Hall must not be entered without the permission of a member of staff.
The McCaskill Music Centre may only be entered by students authorised to do so. Pianos and musical equipment may only be used by students authorised to do so by the Music Department.
Homework and Study
Homework and Study form an integral part of every student’s school day at Barker.
All students in the Middle and Senior Schools are expected to complete homework assignments on five evenings a week in normal term time. Each subject area has a practical philosophy of the homework tasks that are set at each year level.
Teachers will set homework according to the guidelines of the subject areas. Students are expected to undertake and complete homework tasks as set, as well as regular revision.
Some students will be able to work faster and so should have extra time for wide reading. Other students will need a little longer to complete set tasks. Parents/guardians should monitor this and help their child manage their study time as efficiently as possible.
Academic support is offered on a number of levels, individual, small group and inclass support. In addition to this support, a structured homework program, Focus On, is also available to all Middle School students to access four afternoons a week. Read more about these programs on page 21 and 22.
Examinations
All secondary students undertake written examinations.
Students are not permitted to absent themselves for home study days prior to exams, except where official study leave is granted. Staff give valuable advice and revision guidance up to the last period before exams.
Cheating is regarded as a very serious offence. Any student believed to have cheated will receive zero marks for the paper and will be issued with consequences.
Expected Student Behaviour
Student Code of Conduct
In order to live out the Barker Values of Commitment, Compassion, Courage, Integrity and Respect, it is expected that all students will:
• Uphold the Christian values and ethos of the school
• Endeavour to gain the maximum benefit from lessons and enable other students to do the same without interruption or distraction
• Work diligently and consistently
• Speak and behave in a way that is polite, respectful and kind
• Uphold the safety of everyone in the Barker community both inside and outside the classroom, including online and off campus
• Respect the property of other students, staff and the school
• Be correctly equipped to participate fully in lessons and use all equipment appropriately
• Arrive at lessons and other scheduled activities on time
• Participate in the life of the school and keep all commitments
• Follow the directions of staff members
• Wear uniform correctly and completely
• Behave in a way that brings credit to the school in all circumstances and contexts
Routines for the Classroom
Employing routines for students as they enter, participate in and leave the classroom is a proactive measure that facilitates positive student behaviour and maximises learning opportunities. These routines provide order, predictability and consistency for teachers and students across the different environments they will encounter during the school day. They enable students to know what to expect and what is expected of them. They ensure smoother transitions between classes and activities, which minimises disruption and frees the teacher to focus on more effective instruction. They equip students with self-management skills and reinforce positive interpersonal communication.
Red Awards
With these provisions in mind, this system is termed ‘The Red Awards’ and is linked to the Barker Values of Commitment, Compassion, Courage, Integrity and Respect. The system is to be applied across the Secondary School to ensure consistency and equity for all students. A ‘Red’ may be given to students inside and outside the classroom, for example in the playground, in co-curricular settings, at the Grange and at events in the broader Barker community.
A ‘Red’ is awarded by a staff member to a student who displays a Barker Value. For example, a student who completes a task in class beyond ordinary expectations may be awarded a Red for Commitment. A student who cleans an area of the playground without being asked or seeking praise may be awarded a Red for Integrity.
Staff members are able to issue a maximum of 10 Reds per term to ensure they are given only in acknowledgement of extraordinary displays of the Barker Values and to prevent the indifference that comes from over-use. Student leaders may also make recommendations for other students to receive Reds in line with their porfolios to ensure the system is embedded into our practice and culture.
Staff members will enter the Red in the student information system and provide further information detailing reasons for the award. Reds will be collated within the student information system and will be visible to Heads of House, parents and students.
The system will be cumulative as follows:
10 Reds = Bronze Award
3 Bronze Awards = Silver Award
3 Silver Awards = Gold Award
It is also possible for a student to be given an automatic Bronze, Silver or Gold Award without the preliminary accrual of Reds for one outstanding contribution to the school that demonstrates exemplary character. The Bronze Award will be presented by the Dean at a House meeting or Assembly. The Silver Award will be presented by the Head of School at an Assembly. The Gold Award will be presented by the Head of Barker College at Celebration. Students who receive the Gold Award will be given Colours, embroidered on the blazer.
It is expected that a student will be eligible to receive a Gold Award in their final years of school. This ensures that the Red System remains purposeful and relevant to Senior School students.
Promoting Positive Relationships
Expected student behaviour
Employing routines for students as they enter, participate in and leave the classroom is a proactive measure that facilitates positive student behaviour and maximises learning opportunities.
Middle School
• Students line up prior to entry to the classroom where appropriate
• Students enter the room in an orderly and considerate manner
• Students stand behind their desk for a greeting until the teacher asks them to be seated
• Laptop is closed until the teacher asks for its use
• Students rise upon entry of a visiting staff member to the classroom
• Students are engaged, productive and respectful until the teacher indicates the lesson has concluded
• Students thank the teacher at the conclusion of the lesson
• Mobile phone placed in locker for the duration of the school day
Supporting positive student behaviour
A flexible Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) best addresses the behavioural wellbeing of all Barker students and supports positive behaviour.
The Universal level of a tiered approach provides a foundation of proactive and preventative practices. When implemented with fidelity, this foundation will address the needs of most students.
Additional tiers of support (for students at risk through to students with significant needs) are in place in recognition that at times, some students will require more frequent and intensive levels of support or intervention to address behaviour concerns. Support at these levels is often accompanied by and documented within the individual personalised planning process.
Building relationships with the students is the foundation of a teacher’s approach in the classroom. Investing in this enables teachers to understand what each student brings to the classroom before the first sentence of any lesson is spoken.
It is important not to assume that students will instinctively absorb positive learning behaviours from teachers who implicity express them. Instead, students need to have these behaviours explicitly modelled and explicitly taught in the curriculum and in formal distinct programs – in ways that are appropriate to the age and context of the students. Classroom teachers have a significant role to play in this but it is imperative that the whole school climate supports teachers in this endeavour.
Responding to unacceptable student behaviour
Responses to unacceptable behaviour should be informed by restorative practices. That is, teachers should facilitate opportunities to build healthy relationships and a positive learning culture by encouraging students to take responsibility for their behaviour, reflect on their actions and be equipped with strategies to make better decisions. The teacher-student relationship is central in this approach as teachers actively seek to prevent harm, encourage growth in character and understanding, and enable restoration of relationships.
Restorative questions:
• What happened?
• What were you thinking about at the time?
• Who has been affected by what happened?
• In what way have they been affected?
• What do you need to do to make things right?
• What could you do differently next time?
The following levels of action are guidelines rather than prescriptive procedures intended as a remedial and corrective process. They outline examples of misdemeanours that may be considered minor through to extreme and what sanctions may apply in these circumstances. These misdemeanours are of equal severity whether they are committed at school or online. However, there is flexibility within these levels of action, dependent on the particular context of the misdemeanour and the needs of the student involved.
It is important to note that the aim of the sanction is to enable the student to reflect on and revise their behaviour, leading to restoration of relationships and reengagement with the school community.
Teachers are able to apply sanctions when a student’s behaviour lies in Levels One, Two or Three. Teachers should refer an incident to the relevant Dean or Head of School if a student’s behaviour lies in Level Four.
Level One - Minor
Sanction Examples of misdemeanour Study Hall* failure to complete work as set by the class teacher
Uniform detention failure to adhere to uniform standards
Clean up detention incidental swearing minor disruption to class lateness to class without reason littering chewing gum
*Study Hall is a lunchtime session for students who have not completed their homework. If students are allocated a Study Hall by their class teacher, the following day they are required to attend a Study Hall session from 12:40pm to 1:10pm where they complete the outstanding work (or other academic work if it has since been completed). Students must then show this work to their class teacher after they have completed the Study Hall.
Level Two - Moderate
Sanction Examples of misdemeanour
Friday detention misuse of laptop persistent swearing persistent or significant disruption to class persistent or significant lateness to class without reason
absence from co-curricular sport or activity without reason failure to serve Level one sanction
Promoting Positive Relationships
Level Three - Serious
Sanction Examples of misdemeanour
Manners detention OR directed swearing
Saturday community service directed swearing persistent or significant disrespect shown to students or staff
inappropriate sexualised comments truancy
lying or cheating failure to serve Level Two sanction
Level Four - Extreme
Sanction Examples of misdemeanour
Stages of Behaviour AND physical violence
Internal suspension OR vandalism
External suspension smoking or vaping use of drugs or alcohol theft
repeated truancy bullying or sexual harassment of other students
Expulsion at the discretion of the Head of Barker College
Fairness and Review
Those who make decisions at Barker College in relation to serious or unresolved student disciplinary matters will aim to reach a fair decision by way of an objective decisionmaking process that involves an impartial investigation (if required) and the exclusion of real or perceived bias. Expulsion from the school is at the discretion of the Head of Barker College and is a condition of enrolment of every student.
If a student or parent wishes to make a complaint about school processes or actions, or appeal a decision made in a disciplinary matter, they may contact the school in an appropriate manner and expect a response from the school as outlined.
Possession and/or Use of Drugs and Alcohol
The School has an interest in the health, personal wellbeing and legal rights and responsibilities of all students. It recognises that the consumption of drugs can impair individual wellbeing and can also interfere with teaching and learning. In addition, drug use, or any drug related incident, either on School property or at School events, interferes with the social, personal and academic interests of other students and staff.
The School’s response to drug-related incidents may relate to the possession, sale, supply, exchange or negotiation of the substances listed below when on school premises or on any other occasion when staff of the School have responsibility for an individual or group of students.
The School will also take action when it believes that a student’s behaviour is obviously affected by any of the following substances:
• Illicit/Illegal drugs (e.g. cannabis/marijuana, cocaine, ecstasy)
• Unsanctioned drugs (e.g. tobacco, alcohol, steroids)
• Inappropriately used prescription/pharmacy/ over the counter medicines (e.g. Ritalin, dexamphetamine, pseudoephedrine, tranquilisers)
• Inappropriately used inhalants and solvents (e.g. aerosol cans, glue)
The School reserves the right to exclude, without warning, students who violate these regulations.
In accordance with the above, the School has a broader program to address student drug use and the attendant problems. This program comprises:
1. A curriculum designed to prevent drugrelated problems.
2. Information to staff and parents/guardians that will help prevent, identify and intervene in drug-related issues.
3. Support within the School, and referral to outside professionals, for students who have problematic drug use or involvement.
4. Fair, but firm, action to be taken in incidents involving any of the substances above.
The School discipline policy on drug-related incidents is formulated from the National School Drug Education Strategy. The School’s approach is one of Harm Minimisation and involves the following components:
1. Demand Reduction encouraging abstinence, dissuading experimentation and providing information.
2. Supply Reduction working to reduce the availability of illicit and unsanctioned drugs within the School.
3. Harm Reduction providing information to reduce the harm that drug taking behaviours can cause.
Behaviour in Regard to Other Students - Bullying
What is Bullying and Harassment?
Bullying is the repeated, wilful, conscious desire to hurt, threaten, isolate, exclude or embarrass someone. Bullying can occur face to face, through written means, by mobile phones, messages and computers. Bullying does not only refer to those occasions when actual physical pain is inflicted.
Bullying
The School’s procedure on Bullying and Harassment states that:
1. Staff and students at Barker support a climate of respect and care for others. Barker College thus actively promotes respect for and tolerance of individual differences.
2. At Barker College bullying in all its forms - physical, emotional and verbal, is totally unacceptable. The School is committed to minimising all forms of harassment.
3. The School has systems of pastoral care, reporting and discipline, which react immediately to cases of bullying when they arise.
4. While recognising that the School’s first priority is to support victims of bullying, the School will also provide support for the bully.
What to do if you are being bullied
• Tell someone. This person may be your parent/guardian, a prefect or any member of staff or another adult.
• If you think someone else is being bullied, tell someone. Tell your parents/guardians, a Head of House (HOH) or a teacher.
• If bullying occurs at School, during School functions, or on the way to or from School, you should contact your class teacher or HOH as soon as possible.
Uniform and Appearance
School uniform is an important factor in the promotion of positive behaviours. Uniform is not just an identifier; it is a normaliser. There is no competition, no expectation to look different, no pressure to fit a particular social norm. Instead, the uniform creates a level playing field for students. In addition, a deep sense of pride, respect and self-discipline come from wearing a uniform correctly. All staff have a responsibility to promote the appropriate wearing of the uniform and correct students when they fail to do this.
Uniform Standards
The following uniform standards apply to all students in the Junior School, Middle School and Senior School and are expected to be enforced by all staff members both within and outside of the school.
Students are expected to wear the uniform neatly and appropriately as seen in the accompanying photographs. If a student fails to do this consistently, any staff member may issue them with a uniform detention monitored by the Student Services Team. This involves the student reporting to a member of the SST every morning and afternoon for five days with correct uniform.
Uniform
• Tie and top button done up
• Shirt tucked in
• Shoes clean and polished
• Trousers to the ankle
• Skirt length to the knee
• Regulation school socks
• Blazer as outer garment off campus in Terms Two and Three
• Jumper not to be worn as outer garment off campus at any time
• Items of sports uniform and school uniform not to be worn together
• Full school uniform worn to every class (except PDHPE) and worn home after sports training
• Full school uniform including blazer worn to all school activities held in the evening, including parent-teacher interviews, plays etc.
• Sport uniform may be worn off campus before or after school sport training
• Barker bag or backpack only, to be left in locker during the school day
Jewellery
• Bracelets, necklaces and rings are not permitted for any student
• Nose studs and plastic studs are not permitted for any student
• Girls may wear one pair of studs or sleepers in the earlobes
• Jewellery worn for religious or health reasons must be approved by the Head of Middle or Senior School
Hair
• Conservative cut, style and colour
• Neat presentation
• No unnatural colour eg blue, green or pink
• For boys: above the collar, not over eyes or ears, clean-shaven
• For girls: above the collar or tied back using neutral, blue or red hair tie/ribbon
Makeup
• No foundation
• No eye make-up, including eyeshadow, eyeliner, mascara and fake eyelashes
• No nail polish or fake nails
• No blush or coloured lipstick
• Students who wear makeup will be sent to the SST or Deans to have it removed
Middle School Girls
Compulsory Items
Twin striped dress
Suggest a minimum of 2 dresses are purchased
White ankle socksthese are not Barker branded and therefore do not need to be purchased through the Plume Store.
Navy tights will be worn with the dress during Term 2 and 3
Blazerworn in Terms 2 and 3
One only
PE Uniformnavy PE shorts and red PE shirt
Red tracksuit top and pants - one set
Suggest 2 of each House shirt for PE lessons and training
Girls’ Optional Uniform Items – not essential
Red jumper or cardigan or sleeveless vestThese will be worn through to Year 12
Striped skirt with long sleeve white shirt and Middle School tie in Term 2 and 3
Navy tights worn with the skirt
Middle School Boys Compulsory Items
Charcoal long pantsThese will be worn through to Year 12
Suggest minimum 2 pairs of pants
Short sleeve white shirt with BC - new style.
The shirts are the same through to Year 12.
Suggest minimum of 3 shirts.
Boys’ Optional Uniform Items - not essential
Navy jumper or sleeveless vestThese will be worn through to Year 12
Long sleeve white shirt with BCworn Terms 2 and 3 only with long pants.
The shirts are the same through to Year 12.
Navy long pants to be worn with long sleeve white shirt and Middle School tieTerms 2 and 3
Scarf
Navy shorts - Terms 1 and 4 only with white shirt and tie
Blazerworn in Terms 2 and 3
One only
Middle School tie
Suggest 2 are purchased
Barker striped grey socks - will also be worn through Senior School
PE Uniformnavy PE shorts and red PE shirt
Red tracksuit top and pants - one set
Suggest 2 of each House shirt for PE lessons and training
Charcoal shortsworn in Terms 1 and 4
Scarf
Middle School
Girls’ Compulsory
Uniform
Middle School
Boys’ Compulsory
Uniform
Optional Items
Short Sleeve Shirt
Tie
Striped grey Socks
Unisex Blazer
Unisex Blazer
Twin Striped Dress
Charcoal Long Pants
Knitwear
Long Sleeve ShirT
Charcoal Shorts
Girls’ red knitwear
Vest, pullover and cardigan
Vest and pullover
Short Sleeve Shirt
Navy Long panTS or shorts
Striped skirt
Sport Uniform
Travelling to and from sporting matches
In summer, students may travel to and from matches in their full sports uniform.
In winter, students may travel to and from matches in their full sports uniform provided they wear their full School tracksuit.
Tennis players may wear either their blazer or tracksuit with their sports uniform.
Students attending after match functions must wear their blazer.
During the football and rugby seasons at home and away games, all Junior, Middle and Senior school students must wear either full School uniform or full School sports uniform, including the tracksuit after 1.00pm if they are not acting as a reserve in a particular game.
Collection of students after sport training
From time to time it may be necessary to conduct sports training off-campus. Students may be collected from the outside venue by a parent/guardian, or make their way directly home, if the Director of Sport - Operations has been advised in advance.
Sports Specific Uniform Requirements
All Sports
Tracksuit: Barker tracksuit with BC insignia
Sports Bag: Navy haversack. No other sports bag may be used.
House Sports
House Polo: As per allocated House
House Shorts: Navy microfibre sport shorts with BC insignia. Please note: Only the Barker sports cap and cricket hat may be worn with sports uniform.
PDHPE
Sports Polo: Red with BC insignia
Shorts: Navy microfibre sport shorts with BC insignia
Sport Socks: White ankle
Sports Shoes: No specified colour
Cap: BC insignia
Hooded Jumper: BC insignia - optional me Stor
Plume Store
All uniform items can be purchased at the school uniform shop known as the Plume Store
Location: 25 Clarke Road, entry from Marillian Ave
Telephone: 9053 2876
Email: plumestore@noone.com.au
Term Trading Hours
Monday to Friday: 9.00am - 4.30pm
Online Store
Parents can shop online if that is more convenient. www.noone.com.au/school/barker-college/shop
Payment: Cash or Credit Card
Technology
Barker College recognizes that access to technology in school gives students opportunities to learn, engage, communicate, and develop skills that will prepare them for work, life, and citizenship. The School is committed to helping students develop 21stcentury skills to enable them to be successful learners, confident and creative individuals, and active and informed citizens. The School also recognises the significant benefits that technology can provide across all areas of learning.
All students are provided with a Barker Google Apps for Education and Office 365 account which provides students with email, online storage, and the collaborative functionality of both platforms. Students are also provided with access to Campion MyConnect for their digital textbooks, Adobe Creative Cloud and other specialist software to support their learning in different subjects.
Student Technology
Middle School students will have their own school supplied laptop as part of the 1:1 laptop program. Students will supply the laptop of their choice from Year 10 as part of the BYOT program. The School believes that this approach provides the best possible learning experiences for students by initially providing a common foundation for students to develop their technology skills and understandings when they start in Middle School, and then allowing students the ability to choose the device that best supports their learning as they progress with their learning in the Senior School.
Students who forget their laptop or have technical issues can borrow a laptop from iCentral at any time.
Classrooms Connections
All classrooms at Barker are equipped with audio-visual presentation tools for teachers and students, with wireless, USB-C and HDMI connections to support a wide variety of devices including Windows, Mac, iOS and Android devices.
Specialist Labs
Barker College is equipped with the latest technology computer labs to subject specific industry-level facilities to best prepare our students for life after school. Examples of specialist technology areas are:
• Music: where Macs are connected to musical keyboards for composition and performance.
• Design & Technology and Visual Arts: where high performance Windows workstations are connected to a variety of sophisticated tools such as CNC routers, lathes, scanners, laser cutters and 3D printers.
• Computing Sciences and iSTEAM: where high performance Windows workstations are used for software development, coding, 3D printing and modelling
• Science: where scientific microscopes, probes and data gathering devices are utilised.
ICT Support for Students
The Barker College ICT Department is open Monday to Friday from 7.30am to 5.30pm during school term time and from 8am to 4pm on Saturday and during school holidays. The department is only closed for public holidays and from Christmas Eve to the start of the first full working week in January.
ICT support for all members of the School community is based at iCentral, which is located in the Secondary School Library. iCentral can also be contacted via phone on (02) 8438 7775 or via email at icentral@barker.nsw.edu.au
Barker College Library
The Barker College Library provides a welcoming space for students to engage in independent study, cocurricular activities, or to socialise with their peers. The Library has an extensive collection of print and digital resources to support student learning and various spaces students can use for study and/or collaborating on group tasks and assignments.
The Library subscribes to a number of online databases to support students and teachers. These are accessible through the myBarker portal and are an excellent first point of
call when undertaking any research task. Any student requiring research assistance can speak with the Teacher Librarians for individual research support. Teachers may also schedule research sessions for their class.
Middle School students also participate in Book Bites wide reading program. During these lessons, students are introduced to new literature, different genres and encouraged to engage in reading for pleasure. All students have access to the Library catalogue via myBarker to help them locate resources. They also have access to eBooks and audiobooks. The Teacher Librarians are always willing to offer suggestions and/or take recommendations to enhance the collection.
Students can access the Library from 7:30am Monday to Friday. The Library closes at 5:00pm Monday to Thursday and at 4:00pm on Friday.
Technology
Academic and Individual Learning Centre
The Individual Learning Centre aims to cater for students with specific learning needs to assist them with their learning difficulties and to maximise their opportunities to access curriculum and achieve their ultimate potential. Support programs are conducted both in and out of School class time.
Academic support is offered on a number of levels, individual, small group and in-class support. For students who are finding the pace of work a little challenging or who have difficulties in one specific subject, enrichment workshops are conducted during lunch and after school with additional explicit instruction in the key learning area. For students who have difficulty grasping the more complex skills and concepts required by Secondary English and/or Mathematics, Learning Support staff provide assistance during class time in a co-teaching role with the regular class teacher. For those ‘at risk’ students with specific learning difficulties, individual programs of study are also designed to assist them to overcome their challenges and achieve mastery.
Additional enrichment activities such as Study Skills and Essay Writing Workshops are conducted to assist students develop more independent learning skills through greater awareness of metacognitive strategies, learning styles, and the importance of keeping a focus on goals and establishing regular work routines.
The Individual Learning Centre aims for a collaborative support model, which involves parents/guardians, students, teachers, Heads of Houses and the School Counsellors. Parents/guardians concerned about their child’s progress in any subject should consult their Head of House who will refer the student on to the School Counsellors and/or the Head of the Learning Support Department.
Focus On
Focus On is a structured homework program. Run in the Kefford Building after school throughout school terms, teaching staff are available to help students in various subject areas. The Focus On Program is designed to give students a structured and quiet working environment. Emphasis is also placed on continued organised assignments.
Academic Enrichment Program
Barker believes that all students deserve to enjoy an enriched curriculum experience. Academic enrichment programs are available to all students regardless of academic ability.
Programs are designed to enrich and enliven the curriculum and to support academic development. Barker students are fortunate to have access to a broad range of enrichment programs, many which are delivered through the normal process of teaching and learning. These programs are built into departmental programs of study and are accessed through classroom teaching and learning.
Our students are enriched by their participation in a wide range of academic programs including: Academic excursions, subject specific immersion events (Maths Week, Science Week and Languages Day), and other STEAM related events, the Hearts and Minds Philosophy and Rhetoric program and a range of visiting speakers.
Other academic enrichment programs are available to all but may only be accessed by some students. Examples of these programs include: subject specific academic support, Focus On, Public Speaking and Debating, Robotics and lunchtime clubs and associations.
Personal Organisation
Lockers
Each student is allocated a locker for the storage of books and personal property. Lockers are to be kept locked when not in use and in a clean and tidy state at all times. The loss of a combination lock is to be reported to the Student Services staff who will arrange for a replacement lock to be supplied and the student’s account debited.
Bags
The Barker navy blue backpack is the preferred bag for day-to-day use. School bags are to be kept in the locker allocated to each student. Bags are not to be left in locker areas, taken to class or left lying around the School grounds. Students may collect their bags and take them to the Music Centre or the Design Centre if it is for the last period or periods of the day.
The navy drawstring haversack available from Plume Store is used for PDHPE and sports training.
Books
Books not required for a class are to be kept in students’ lockers. Books are not to be left lying loose around the School grounds, locker areas or outside classrooms. Students are not to go to lockers between periods, only at break times.
Mobile Phone Procedures
Students are required to ensure their possession and use of a mobile phone do not detract from their learning or their social interactions. There is to be no gaming, use of social media, taking photos of or filming other students while on campus unless directed by the teacher.
In the Middle School, students must leave their phone in their locker from 8am for the duration of the school day, in order to remove this device as a temptation or distraction.
If a student breaches these procedures, or uses their phone or headphones for purposes other than that determined by the teacher, they will surrender the item and it will be handed to the relevant Dean, who will decide when the student can recover it.
Co-curricular Activities
Sports at Barker
All Year 7, 8 and 9 students are required to participate in regular sports practices and games.
The following sports will be offered to all Year 7 girls:
Term 1: (Summer Season)
Students choose one of the following options:
• AFL
• Basketball
• Cricket
• Dance (Term 1 - Week 1 Term 4 2025)
• Equestrian
• Rugby 7s
• Softball
• Tennis
• Touch Football
• Volleyball
• Water Polo
Term 2 and 3 (Winter Season)
Students choose 1 of the following options:
• Athletics
• Cross Country
• Equestrian
• Football (soccer)
• Golf
• Hockey
• Netball
• Swimming
• Tennis
• Volleyball
Term 4 (Summer Season)
Students choose one of the following options:
• AFL
• Athletics
• Basketball
• Cricket
• Dance (for 2026 season)
• Diving
• Equestrian
• Fencing
• Golf
• Mountain Biking
• Rowing
• Rugby 7s
• Softball
• Surf Life Saving
• Swimming
• Taekwondo
• Tennis
• Touch Football
• Volleyball
• Water Polo
Depending on the spread of students and the take up of various options, there may not be enough female students to run a team in a particular sport. In this instance, individual students and parents will be contacted.
Girls Team sports play in the ISA Association Competition which requires travel for fixtures to regional schools.
It is also possible that some coeducational teams will play in the CAS competition if there is enough demand.
Co-curricular Activities
The following sports will be offered to all Years 7 boys:
Term 1: (Summer Season)
Students choose one of the following options:
• Basketball
• Cricket
• Dance (Term 1 - Week 1 Term 4 2024)
• Equestrian
• Tennis
• Touch Football
• Water Polo
Term 2 and 3 (Winter Season)
Students choose one of the following options:
• Athletics
• AFL
• Cross Country
• Equestrian
• Football (soccer)
• Golf
• Rugby
• Swimming
• Tennis
Term 4 (Summer Season)
Students choose one of the following options:
• Athletics
• Basketball
• Cricket
• Dance (for 2025 season)
• Diving
• Equestrian
• Fencing
• Golf
• Mountain Biking
• Rowing
• Surf Life Saving
• Swimming
• Taekwondo
• Tennis
• Water Polo
General Sports Information
Students are required to attend selection trials as scheduled for their sport and age group. Once selected, teams practise twice each week at times scheduled by the Sports Department.
Teams play Saturday matches and in some cases, Friday afternoon, and all players are expected to attend if selected by the coach. Absence from practices and matches will only be permitted in the case of illness or injury (where a note from a parent/guardian is supplied) or where prior permission is granted for an occasional justifiable alternative activity. Again a note from a parent/guardian must be provided well in advance to both the team coach and also to the Director of Sport - Operations. Approval to miss games is granted rarely, and only then in the most exceptional circumstances. Where students participate in sport outside school, Barker commitments must take priority.
Students must ensure that they are appropriately dressed for both their practices and for their matches. Students must arrive at the time specified by their coach in order to prepare properly for their games.
Snow Sports
Students in Year 7 to 9 are able to represent the School in Snow Sports in addition to their chosen Winter sport. Snow Sports include alpine, cross country and freestyle (mogul) skiing and snowboarding. They compete in teams in the NSW Interschool Skiing Championships in July. All skiers and boarders are encouraged to participate and experience racing, no matter what their level of expertise.
ISA or CAS Pathway
In addition to co-curricular sport, students can participate in the ISA or CAS pathway as part of the Barker team competing at the ISA or CAS Championships for Athletics, Cross Country, Swimming and Diving.
Swimming and Athletics
All Years 7, 8 and 9 students are also expected to participate in the School Swimming and Athletics Championships, which are run concurrently with the House Competitions in those sports. Students may enter all or any events they choose and may be organised into House teams as well.
Swimming and Athletics Teams are selected based of the School Championships and Invitation Carnivals results. The girls sporting Association is ISA and the boys Association is CAS. The School Swimming Team is selected and the Athletics Team is open to all interested students. Once involved in either team, students are expected to attend all training and competitions as scheduled.
House Competition Sport
House sports played each year in a structured Intermural Competition arranged by the Heads of Houses are: Athletics, Basketball, Chess, Cross-Country, Football, Netball, Intermural Team, Oz-Tag, Swimming, Table Tennis, Tennis, Ultimate Frisbee and Volleyball.
School Spirit and Support
Throughout the year, students are encouraged to support their peers and the School’s Senior teams, as much as possible. There are occasional compulsory attendance days, such as the CAS Athletics. There is a great deal of enjoyment, satisfaction, camaraderie, school spirit and sense of community to be gained from supporting other teams. The top teams in the School play high quality, entertaining games and warrant support.
Outdoor Education
Barker College places a high value on Outdoor Education, and on the opportunities that a carefully planned and graded Outdoor Education experience can provide for the personal, spiritual and social development of students. The aim of our Outdoor Education program is to develop character and relationships through unique, challenging and shared experiences in diverse and inspiring environments. The Outdoor Education program at Barker runs from Year 2 to Year 12.
Outdoor activities are introduced to students on each camp in a sequential fashion. Students develop their skills and expertise in areas such as orienteering, abseiling, mountain biking, cooking, first aid, etc. These activities also cover the majority of the expedition training for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme (DEAS), whether students join that activity or not.
Barker is committed to the health, safety and wellbeing of all students during all activities. It is important that you keep the School up to date with any medical concerns or diagnosis for your child along with any medications required. This can be done by completing the Update Medical Details in the parent portal. If your child needs to take prescription medications during the school day, please contact the Health Centre (healthcentre@ barker.nsw.edu.au) to obtain the necessary consent forms and plan the best way for your child to safely receive their medications. For camps and excursions, it is important that regular prescription medications are continued in order for your child to perform and function at their best and get the most out of every experience.
All efforts will be made to maintain the privacy of all students. Relevant information about the student’s identity, medical condition, symptoms and the appropriate response plan will need to be made known only to staff that may be required to administer prescribed medication or provide direct care.
Co-curricular Activities
Year 7 Program
Teen Ranch
Year 7 students attend a three-day camp at Teen Ranch in their House Groups in Term 1. Run by experienced leaders, Teen Ranch plays an important part in each student’s spiritual and social development in a context that enables students to encounter a range of carefully planned and supervised outdoor experiences. The primary aim of this camp is to develop connections and a sense of belonging.
Year 7 Grange Camp
The Grange is located at Mt Victoria and is the School’s Outdoor Education and Environmental Studies Centre. The program at The Grange for each year-group in Middle School provides opportunities for students to develop skills of teamwork, resilience, independence and confidence while gaining more expertise in the outdoors.
Please Note: Camping Equipment. Whilst at The Grange, all students will be issued with an appropriate equipment, including a Barker specified tent and foam bedroll. This is then retained by the students until the end of their Year 10 Program.
Year 8 Program
In the second half of Year 8, once students are nearly 14, they join the Barker College Cadet Unit, and/or the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme at a Bronze Award level. It is a School requirement that students participate in at least one of these activities.
Year 8 Grange Camp
Year 8 students attend a camp at The Grange to extend their personal skills and expertise in the outdoors. Students attend camp with their House groups.
Year 8 Camp
Year 8 students will participate in a cohortwide camp in the Royal National Park in order
to demonstrate the skills they have gained, develop their character and relationships and prepare for more challenging outdoor experiences in Year 9.
Year 9 Program
Year 9 students will be expected to complete their Bronze Level Award in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme and/or their Recruit Training in ‘C’ Company in the Barker College Cadet Unit including a camp.
Year 9 Extended Stay Program
Students in Year 9 can nominate to attend an 18 day extended stay program to Alice Springs. This experience is aimed at both extending our students and also connecting in a real way with Indigenous Australia. Barker students spend time at Hamilton Downs learning skills of a stock camp, hiking the Larapinta Trail and serving the Aboriginal community at Black tank.
Year 9 Grange Camp
Year 9 students who do not participate in the Extended Stay Program, attend a camp at The Grange. A range of more challenging outdoor activities is a feature of the Year 9 Grange Camp program. The students attend The Grange in their House Group.
Year 9 Camp
All Year 9 students will attend a camp at the end of Term 4. Marking the end of Middle School for all students, this camp involves outdoor activities, group challenges, personal reflection and celebration of their journey through the Middle school.
Costs and Charges
The cost of the various Outdoor Activities is included in the Annual Activities Charge included in your termly fees statement. An additional levy applies for Cadets and for Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme participation in Years 8 and 9. The cost of the tent issue in Year 7 will be billed separately.
Co-curricular Activities
Cadets
The Cadet Unit was formed in 1900 and has been an integral part of the School’s program ever since.
The Cadet program plays an important role in Barker's broader outdoor education program. It assists with the development of initiative, self-discipline, self-reliance and resilience. The BCCU is part of the Australian Army Cadets (AAC) which has 17000 members nationally.
In Year 8 students are invited to join the Unit for 10 months, and after this, if they choose, to continue through until their passing-out parade in Year 12.
The training program provides a blend of military skills, outdoor adventure, communal living and personal development. For the Senior Cadets there is a strong emphasis on leadership and people management skills.
The adult officers are drawn from the teaching staff and former students of the School.
Cadets enjoy belonging to an organisation with a proud history and sharing in the traditions of both the Barker College Cadet Unit and the Australian Defence Forces.
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme (Year 8 onwards)
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme is open to students between 14 and 25 years of age who participate at either Bronze (14+years), Silver (15+years) or Gold (16+years) level in a range of activities including Expeditions, Service, Skills and Physical Recreation. Gold Level members also complete a residential experience for five days.
When students join, it is expected that they will complete a Senior First Aid Certificate course. The School runs a number of these each year. Upon completion of the DEAS award, a certificate and badge are awarded, with those successful at the Gold level receiving theirs from either a member of the Royal family or one of their representatives such as the Governor of NSW.
The highlights for many in the Scheme are the expeditions to places like Barrington Tops, The Warrumbungles, Sturt National Park, the Braidwood area and Kanangra-Boyd National Park. Most of these are held in Term Time during weekends; there may also be a vacation camp for a few days.
Conclusion
All these activities foster a love of and respect for the natural environment, encourage the development of a wide range of skills, and a greater understanding of individual ability and strength through cooperative effort and teamwork.
Clubs and Activities
Christian Support Groups (Crusaders)
Christian Discovery groups are organised for students in Years 7, 8 and 9 who are interested in learning more about what it means to follow Jesus. They meet at lunch times.
Chess
Chess at Barker is open to all students irrespective of their playing standard. An internal league functions at lunch times where coaching and practice is available. The School also participates in the CAS and NSW Junior Chess League competitions. Playing opportunities in League Chess exist at the Senior (Years 11 and 12), Intermediate (Years 9 and 10) and Junior (Years 7 and 8) levels. Chess players are also encouraged to play in the open chess tournaments offered by the NSW Junior Chess League and other institutions. Interhouse Chess is also an opportunity for Middle School students to compete for their respective Houses.
Robotics
Barker Robotics provides a rounded educational experience, equipping students with skills that few other high school programs can offer. Teaching communication, teamwork, leadership and initiative, whilst having fun and pursuing their passion whether technical, business or artistic. Students are taken through an engineering process that involves designing, prototyping, constructing and testing their robot so that it can complete the tasks required to be a competitive player. Barker College has competed in regional championships as well as competitions in the US, Canada and China.
Debating
Barker has a long and proud tradition of debating, going back to the origins of the CAS. In Years 7 to 9 there is an extensive program running from Term 1 to Term 3. This program is geared both for those who have already had some experience of debating in Primary School or previous years and equally, at those who would like to learn to debate for the first time. Year 7 and Year 8 are both excellent times to start. Debating is arguably the most valuable long term skill you can acquire at School. It, or public speaking, is something that most people will use in later life. It requires quick thinking, fluent presentation and teamwork.
The first two debating competitions of the year, running concurrently over Terms 1 and 2, are the prestigious ISDA Competition and the newer FED competition. The ISDA is an impressive private school event that runs over seven Friday nights, with the possibility of up to three semi-finals and a grand final. Only one team of four speakers per year is selected and all debates are one hour impromptu debates. The FED is our B team competition, currently against five other schools, and has five rounds, two semi-finals and a grand final.
Late in Term 2 there are a series of social debates that act as preparation for the CAS Competition. These are against a range of schools and provide speakers with extra practise in less competitive conditions. It also gives those who missed out on ISDA selection a chance to make their way into the CAS teams.
The debating season concludes with the CAS Competition in Term 3. This is Barker’s traditional competition. There are two teams per age group for each year.
Clubs and Activities
It is important to read both the Barker Bulletin and consult the Debating notice board on Level 4 of the Kefford Building to keep up with debating events. Each year different and new events occur, including training days at the Universities and special demonstration debates.
Public Speaking
To help students gain confidence and skill in public speaking while they are at school, and in order to lay foundations for their lives when they leave school, Barker offers a comprehensive program of Public Speaking for Middle School students. The program is designed to cater for inexperienced public speakers who wish to improve their communication skills and to gain confidence, and also to offer a range of opportunities for more experienced public speakers to refine their skills.
The Public Speaking program takes place during Term 1, culminating in our internal Public Speaking Evening near the end of Term 1 each year. Here some of the best speakers compete for the school Public Speaking prizes. The competitors are required to deliver a five minute speech on a topic of their choice and to deliver an impromptu speech. After this, a number of lunchtime and after school workshops run over Terms 2 and 3.
Barker students who do well in this Public Speaking Evening go on to represent Barker in various inter-school public speaking competitions, like the Legacy competition. These competitions are of a high standard and, in recent years, Barker students have shown that they are more than capable of delivering excellent speeches in front of experienced adjudicators and large audiences.
All students are welcome to participate in our Public Speaking program and we encourage students from Years 7 to 9 to get involved if they believe they would enjoy and benefit from such a program.
Music Groups
Students involved in Music at Barker College have a strong sense of identity and belonging to what we like to call the “Music Tribe” and they gain exceptional pastoral care and growth through music.
Students in Years 7 and 8 are engaged in classroom Music through an exciting program that offers a range of musical activities and experiences. In Year 9 students can elect to continue their academic study of Music in one of two courses: Contemporary Music Studies or Music Elective.
Many students at Barker enrich their musical journey by undertaking private music tuition. These lessons are taught by experienced and qualified visiting music teachers who visit Barker each day. Private tuition is available on all instruments and voice.
Lessons are organised on a rotating timetable during the school day to reduce disruption to academic classes.
There are many co-curricular music ensembles at Barker involving hundreds of students. All ensembles are graded by ability and age so that the students work together at the appropriate musical level. Rehearsals take place either before or after School. Ensembles perform at many of the major Music events throughout the year, including Symphony Under the Stars, Barker College concerts, Masterpiece Concerts, Sydney Eisteddfod, Band and Orchestra Festivals and Tours.
Some of the musical ensembles include:
• Kurrajong and McCaskill Wind Ensemble
• Wind Orchestra
• Middle School Stage Band
• Middle School Big Band
• Middle School Jazz Orchestra
• Middle School String Orchestras
• Chamber Orchestra
• Symphony Orchestra
• Chamber Choir
• Middle School Choir
• Rock Bands
• Jazz Ensembles
Performing Arts
Every year, Barker stages plays targeting specific year levels. The co-curricular program is a collaborative venture between staff and students with lasting friendships formed. It involves commitment, creativity and energy. The productions also encourage the skilling of students in the various technical roles, e.g. lighting, sound and stage management. In general terms, Middle School students are not involved in Drama productions until Year 9 when Drama may be taken as an elective subject. However, students in Years 7 and 8 can participate in Drama After Hours and there will be other performance opportunities made available to students.
Clubs and Activities
Service Opportunities
An important component of education at Barker is the development of a sense of responsibility and service to the community.
Within the School, students are encouraged to offer their services in a variety of activities such as stage and lighting hands for drama productions, ball-persons for rugby, scorers for cricket matches, assistant coaches for service teams and Library assistants. Outside the School many students serve the community through their participation in church and youth groups, all of which is recognised and applauded by the School.
In monetary terms students are asked to support various charity collections.
All these activities are designed to develop in the young student a concern for others.
Photography
Photography Club is open to all students from Year 7 to Year 12, beginners to advanced. The course covers: camera operation, composition, studio and natural lighting, darkroom and special effects, history and theory, careers in the photographic industry, occupational health and safety, presentation and exhibition of student work. Students will have the opportunity to enter competitions and exhibit their work.
Footprint
Footprint is a student group that aims to blend advocacy, education and participation across a range of environmental and social issues throughout the Barker Community.
In recent years, Footprint has instigated the following sustainability projects across the School:
• 100% biodegradable and compostable food packing has replaced plastic containers in canteens
• Additional bubbler/refill water bottle stations have been installed around the School as part of the Refill not Landfill campaign.
• Waste has been diverted from landfill to recycling through the Great Locker Challenge, weekly office paper recycling rounds (1/2 tonne per week) and pop up stationery reuse stall
In addition, students have attended Social Justice Forums, pledged for parity to commemorate International Women’s Day, as well as actively participating in National Reconciliation week.
Communications
The Barker Bulletin
A weekly bulletin which keeps students and parents/guardians informed of the dayto-day activities of the School from PreKindergarten to Year 12. This newsletter is published each Friday and can be accessed on myBarker.
myBarker and ICT Support
All Barker parents and guardians are provided with myBarker (portal) access my.barker.college. Student timetables, reports and assessment schedules, EdSmart forms, School events, and co-curricular information are available to parents, guardians and students via myBarker. Information is disseminated using this platform so it is important for you to have access.
The ICT Service Desk (iCentral) can be contacted to resolve any access or service difficulties for parents, guardians and students either via email icentral@barker. nsw.edu.au or by telephoning (02) 8438 7775. iCentral is open Monday to Friday from 7.30am to 5.30pm during School term time and 8am to 4pm on Saturday and during during non-term time.
The Year in Review
The Year in Review is published each year, featuring highlights of the School year. It is distributed at Celebration (held in early December each year) and is available online at https://www.barker.college/news-events/ barker-publications and copies are also sent home with students at the commencement of the new School year.
The Barker
A quarterly magazine published for the Barker Community containing news and information about the activities of
the students and staff, the Old Barker Association, The Barker College Parents’ Association and the Barker Foundation.
The Barker is also available online barker. college/news-events/barker-publications
School Events
To view all upcoming events at Barker visit my.barker.college
Social Media
We encourage the Barker Community to follow what is happening at the School via our Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or YouTube channels. Links to these pages can be found on the home page of the Barker website www.barker.college.
Community and Barker Organisations
Parents/Guardians
The involvement of a community in its school is an essential part of a good school. Barker has a long tradition as a ‘family school’.
Parents/Guardians assist the School in the Tuckshop, by assisting with sport, e.g. Scoring and by catering at social occasions. Each year group has a class parent (as arranged through the BCPA) who organises social functions for parents/guardians.
Parents/guardians are assisted in understanding what is happening in the Senior School through the Parent-Teacher interviews, parent/guardian events and weekly bulletin.
The BCPA
The Barker College Parents’ Association was formed in 1926. Ever since that time the BCPA has worked to support the School by fostering friendship and community, and provide funds for numerous projects and countless items of equipment. All Barker parents are automatically members of the BCPA.
The Barker Foundation
Established by the School Council in 1981, The Barker Foundation is a separate notfor-profit entity that raises and invests private contributions to Barker College, while advocating for and advancing the School’s transformative mission and brand.
The Barker Foundation is the agent for our Barker community that inspires tomorrow’s Barker for us all, through progressive ideas and programs, scholarships, inclusivity initiatives, and future learning spaces.
The Directors of the Foundation represent a diverse group of talented current and past parents, some of whom are also old boys and girls of the School, who generously provide their time, skills and knowledge, to assist Barker.
The Council of Barker College (School Council)
The Council of Barker College is established under an ordinance of the Anglican Synod of Sydney. The School Council is made up from members appointed by Synod, the Old Barker Association and by The School Council itself. The Head of Barker College attends meetings but is not a member.
OBA
The Old Barker Association (OBA) is the oldest of Barker’s support groups, and celebrated its Centenary in 2008. Founded as the Old Boys’ Union in 1908, it became the Old Barker Association in 1976 when the first girls from the introduction of coeducation in 1975 graduated.
School Map
Careers & Counselling E:10 Carter House C:10
Centenary Design Centre H:7
Communications C:10
Copeland/Junior School East F:3
David Gamson Centre B:8
Dining Hall B:10
Enrichment Centre F:4
Enrolments Office (Carter House) C:10
Marri Mittigar