In answer to my own question -

Originally Posted by: SlickString I know there are barre chord lessons but is there a series of lessons on barres with other than the index finger?

The answer is yes, here in these 2 lessons -

http://www.guitartricks.com/lesson.php?input=11787&c_id=5&ch_id=25&s_id=521

http://www.guitartricks.com/lesson.php?input=11906&c_id=5&ch_id=26&s_id=563

In both of them the high e string isn't involved so it doesn't matter if it's being muted while 3rd finger barre technique/strength is practised and developed. Once that's achieved it should be possible to progress to holding the 3rd finger barre and letting the high e string sound out.

That's my plan anyway....