The Great Cause

In this special episode of The Great Cause, Phillip Heath AM is joined by four Barker students and Head of Character Education, Peter Gibson to explore what it means to host the 2026 Round Square International Conference.
Together, they reflect on the conference theme, Visions of the Future from an Ancient Land, and discuss how student leadership, service, global friendship and curiosity come to life through the Round Square experience. From behind-the-scenes preparations to the opportunities and responsibilities that come with welcoming delegates from around the world, the conversation offers a unique student perspective on one of the most significant events in Barker's history.
The discussion explores the power of experiences such as service projects, Baraza discussions and shared challenges to foster meaningful connection.
Above all, it is a conversation about hospitality, empathy, courage and the belief that young people can help shape a better future by learning from one another and welcoming the world with open minds and open hearts.
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In this episode of The Great Cause, Head of Barker College, Phillip Heath AM, is joined by Dr Alex Curtis, Head of Choate Rosemary Hall in Wollingford, Connecticut.
With a legacy shaped by remarkable alumni and a history intertwined with the founding of St John’s and the integration of Rosemary Hall, Choate has long been a place where character, leadership and service are deeply connected. It is also the school where a young John F. Kennedy first delivered the words that would later inspire generations: “Ask not what your country can do for you…”
Together, Phillip and Alex explore how this enduring ethos continues to shape Choate’s approach to education today. From its signature programmes to its global outlook, the conversation reflects on how schools can cultivate purpose, leadership and a commitment to contributing beyond self.
This episode offers a compelling look at how tradition and innovation come together to form young people who are not only prepared for the future, but ready to make a meaningful difference in it.
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In this episode of The Great Cause, Phillip Heath AM sits down for a recorded conversation with Sir Richard Taylor, co-founder and creative director of Wētā Workshop, for a fascinating conversation on the nature of creativity and what it takes to build a life in pursuit of excellence.
Reflecting on his early years, Sir Richard shares how curiosity became his greatest superpower, an instinct that fuelled imagination, experimentation and a lifelong passion for making. Together, Phillip and Richard explore the important distinction between excellence and perfection, and how striving for the highest standards need not come at the cost of creativity or joy.
Richard also speaks candidly about the people who shape our journeys, describing how those around us can become the true “life force” behind a meaningful and successful career. From collaboration to character, he outlines the attributes he believes underpin lasting success, and reflects on what he is most proud of across his remarkable career.
The episode concludes with a simple but powerful insight: the importance of keeping the mind creative in the way it thinks, remaining open, curious and willing to see the world differently.
A compelling conversation for anyone interested in creativity, leadership and the pursuit of meaningful work.
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In this episode, our host Phillip Heath AM sits down with renowned clinical psychologist and author Andrew Fuller for a rich, energising conversation about neurodiversity and the future of learning. Andrew unpacks what neurodiversity really means, why personalised education is becoming an expectation rather than an exception, and how understanding the way each young person is “smart” can transform their sense of purpose.
We explore the idea that great education — and great parenting — is ultimately an act of treasure hunting: discovering strengths, uncovering passions, and helping young people find their meaningful contribution to the world. Andrew also shares practical insights on navigating self‑doubt, the vital role families play in shaping confidence, and his top tips for teachers working with neurodiverse students.
A thoughtful, hopeful, and deeply practical conversation for educators, parents, and anyone committed to helping young people thrive.
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In this energising episode of The Great Cause, host and Head of Barker College, Phillip Heath AM sits down with renowned psychologist, author, and educator Andrew Fuller for a conversation that sets the tone for a purposeful and resilient year ahead.
Whether you’re a student stepping into a new chapter, a teacher preparing to inspire, or a parent or guardian supporting someone you love, this episode offers practical wisdom and a refreshing mindset shift. Andrew unpacks what it truly means to show up, opt in, and stay curious — three deceptively simple habits that can transform learning, relationships, and wellbeing.
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