At Hastings Central we have fantastic learning environments throughout the school, with all learners enjoying teachers who work collaboratively to ensure learning is targeted, flexible and responsive to the needs and interests of the learner. Connection and belonging are the lifeblood of our school and we are working together to create a whanau-like context within our school so that students have the best chance of progress and success with their learning. This is in line with the research of Russell Bishops, "Relationships First: Teaching to the North-East" philosophy.

Our curriculum is built on our learners employing our school values, which essentially are key foundational skills, through meaningful inquiry and problem solving. Teacher also work hard at integrating learning into their programme to help promote engagement and to make learning more meaningful.

Hastings Central School cherishes each child’s natural curiosity and enthusiasm for learning, as well as their desire to co-operate with others through work and during play. Learning is structured to capture the learners’ inquisitiveness, to use their interests as starting points to lead them to the wonders of exploration and discovery. By fostering self-motivation in this way, learners become inventive and independent thinkers who are confident in their ability to learn and to master challenges. ​​​​​​​

We are a very multicultural school and we embrace the diversity of our community and what each child and their whānau bring to our school. Currently we have three Cultural Performance groups including Kapa Haka, Pasifika and Diwali. We invite all volunteers to help us in these areas as we love expertise and help!