Te Kura ō Te Pāroa is a Special Character Designated School under Section 156 of the Education Act 1989.

Te Kura ō Te Pāroa ensures Ngāti Awa children are given the opportunity to be educated in the context of their culture and heritage. The special character status ensures future successful participation of Ngāti Awa and all Māori students in their own community, the wider Māori community and in the wide world.

Te Kura ō Te Pāroa offers both mainstream and Te Reo Māori immersion education for all year groups.
Te Reo Māori education at Immersion Level 1 is offered in years 1 – 8.

Te Reo Māori education at Immersion levels 3 and 4 is also offered for years 1-8.

The school culture nurtures and values the unique position of Māori in New Zealand society.
Māori cultural values, karakia and tikanga are an integral part of Te Kura ō Te Pāroa.
All students participate in Performing arts - Kapa Haka is an area of strength for  Te Kura ō Te Pāroa