Hauraki School is committed to helping students achieve their potential and this is reflected in our consistent well-above-average national test results. This involves the teaching of a balanced programme with an emphasis on English and Maths but also Science, Social Science, Technology, P.E./Health, Visual Art, Music, Drama, and Dance.
Programmes are carefully planned so they are relevant, meaningful, and children are motivated to learn. Creativity is built into the delivery of these so that students learn how to learn and are equipped with skills they can take through life. They are taught to ask good questions, problem-solve, think critically and creatively, make informed decisions, and be capable, independent and co-operative learners.
Opportunities exist for students to develop leadership skills. House Captains and Deputy Captains are elected annually for each of the four houses North (green), East (yellow), West (red) and South (blue). As well, there are student librarians, road patrols, computer, office and P.E. monitors.
A particularly effective special needs programme exists which is managed by the Assistant Principal, visiting specialists and teacher aides. If there are concerns, students are assessed and appropriate professional help is provided either individually or in small groups but always in a positive and caring environment.
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Students are encouraged to have a strong sense of self-identity by knowing who they are, how they learn best, what their heritage is,and how to be a good citizen. They are given skills to help foster a sense of connectedness, authentic understanding and appreciation of other people as well as their environment. An integral part of this is the explicit teaching of a values programme.
Because individual development of students is important to the staff at Hauraki, special programmes feature which cater for varying learning needs, strengths and interests. Extension programmes are provided for children with special abilities and these are offered over blocks of time normally for Middle and Senior students. The nature of such programmes coincides with identified needs but the emphasis tends to be on literacy and numeracy. There are opportunities for students to take part in competitions within the school and externally as well.
 
The school caters for resident and non-resident students for whom English is a second language or need support in English to enable them to fully participate in classroom programmes. These are provided on a regular basis by a specialist ESOL (English as a Second Language) teacher.
There are many opportunities during the course of the year for teachers and parents to share information on student progress and achievement. Early in Term 1 there is a ‘Meet the Teacher’ evening when teachers outline programmes of work, explain routines, and discuss work and behavioural expectations.
Parent-teacher interviews to discuss children’s progress are held at the end of both Terms 1 and 2. As well, portfolios of work are sent home at the end of Terms 1, 2 and 3 and a written report is provided at the end of the year. Parents are able to make an appointment at any other pre-arranged time through the office or directly with the class teacher. The Principal is also available to meet parents on request.
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