Phillip Heath AM - Head of Barker College

Barker College celebrated 50 years of co-education in 2025.

Phillip Heath AM has served as the Head of Barker College since 2014 and is the ninth principal in the school's distinguished history. With a background in teaching and leadership across several prominent schools in Australia and the UK, Heath brought a wealth of experience and a clear vision for innovation and inclusion to Barker.

Heath is known for his deep commitment to educational equity and Indigenous education. Prior to joining Barker, he founded the Gawura Campus for Indigenous students at St Andrew’s Cathedral School. Continuing this mission at Barker, he established three Indigenous campuses: Darkinjung Barker on the Central Coast, Ngarralingayil Barker in Wollombi, and Dhupuma Barker in Arnhem Land. These initiatives reflect his belief in the transformative power of education to uplift communities and create opportunities.

One of Heath’s most notable reforms at Barker was the transition to full coeducation. Starting in 2016 and completed by 2022, the move marked a significant cultural shift for the school and was driven by his belief in creating a more inclusive and contemporary learning environment.

His contributions to education have been nationally recognised. In 2018, Heath was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for his service to education and advocacy for Indigenous students. In 2023, he was named Australian School Principal of the Year, an acknowledgment of his inspiring leadership.

Beyond strategic achievements, Heath is admired for his personal approach to school leadership. He takes time to connect with students individually, even delivering handwritten birthday notes, embodying his belief that leadership is rooted in human connection and care.

Phillip Heath’s tenure at Barker College has redefined what it means to lead with vision, compassion, and purpose in Australian education.