Hastings School

🌿 Year 12 Biologists Take Learning Outside 🌿

Our Year 12 Biology students are already looking ahead—diving into Year 13 content with enthusiasm and drive.
As part of their ecological studies, the group visited Parque Pinar del Rey to complete essential fieldwork and bring classroom theory to life.

Using quadrats and transects, they investigated species distribution and abundance across different habitats—gathering real-world data and building key practical skills. 🔍📊

This hands-on experience not only reinforced their understanding of core ecological concepts, but also gave them the chance to work collaboratively and connect with the natural world. 🌱✨

Cognita Schools Group

🔬 Building Curious Investigators 🔥

In every science lesson, we aim to do more than teach facts—we build curiosity, critical thinking, and a love for discovery.

Here, our students are learning how to investigate the energy content of food, combining theory with real-world experimentation. With careful observation, questions, and analysis, they’re developing the skills of true young scientists. 🧠📊

Because science isn’t just about what we know—it’s about how we explore. ✨

Cognita Schools Group

🎓 Year 12 Super-Curricular Experience at IE University 🌍

Our Year 12 students recently took part in an inspiring super-curricular day at IE University, designed to nurture academic curiosity and provide a glimpse into university-level learning in real-world contexts.

Pupils chose from four subject pathways and spent the day engaging with lectures, hands-on activities, and sessions led by academic experts across a range of disciplines.

One group had the unique opportunity to explore coral reef ecosystems through virtual reality—reinforcing what they had learned in a lecture with immersive, practical tasks. This mirrors the kind of learning included in IE’s Bachelor in Environmental Sciences for Sustainability. 🐠💡

We’re incredibly proud of our students for their exemplary behaviour and engagement, and we extend our thanks to Mr López and Mr Beer for helping to strengthen the partnership between Hastings and IE University.

Cognita Schools Group

🚶‍♀️ One Step at a Time 🚶‍♂️
Progress isn’t always dramatic—it’s often made through small, steady steps.

We celebrate every effort, no matter how big or small. Whether a child is learning to read, making a new friend, or trying something new for the first time—each step forward counts. 🌟

Let’s continue encouraging our children to move forward with confidence, kindness, and curiosity. 💙

Cognita Schools Group

🍓 From Field to Fork: A Berry Sweet Learning Experience! 🌱

As part of their current topic on where food comes from, our Year 1 children had a fruitful adventure at Finca Monjarama! 👩‍🌾👨‍🌾

They explored the journey of strawberries—from the soil to their spoons—learning about organic farming and sustainable growing practices. After discovering how these delicious berries are nurtured without chemicals, they had the best reward of all… tasting the strawberries right from the field! 😋🍓

With baskets in hand, our students proudly picked their own strawberries to take home and share with their families. What a fantastic, hands-on way to deepen their understanding of food, farming, and the natural world around us. We love seeing learning come alive outside the classroom! 🌾📚

Cognita Schools Group

🏃‍♂️💥 Action, Laughter, and Team Spirit!

From sprinting across the field to cheering on their teammates, our students know how to make the most of playtime.

These snapshots capture the energy, enthusiasm, and friendship that sport brings to school life—whatever the game may be! 🙌💙

Cognita Schools Group

👩‍🏫 Meet the People Who Make Hastings Special

Anna Brickle – IB Programme Co-ordinator
With a strong background in Physics and international education, Anna brings passion, leadership and global perspective to our IB Diploma Programme. 🌍📚

She’s taught in the UK, Indonesia and Spain—serving in roles from Head of Science to Head of House—and joined Hastings in 2018 to lead the development of our IB offering.

Anna’s experience and vision are helping shape a truly world-class learning journey for our students. 🌟

Cognita Schools Group

🌾🐴 Outdoor Learning at the Farm! 🐮🌻

Last week, our Nursery, Year 1 and Year 2 children went on some truly memorable adventures—to three very different farms! 🌿🚜

From feeding animals to exploring gardens and enjoying tractor rides, our pupils had the chance to connect with nature in meaningful, hands-on ways. These outdoor experiences bring learning to life—supporting curiosity, empathy, and understanding of the world around them. 🌎💚

Our Nursery children had a particularly magical time at El Álamo farm, where they met friendly animals and even enjoyed a pony ride! 🐴 Their smiles said it all—what a wonderful day of discovery, joy and gentle learning.

✨ Learning doesn’t just happen in the classroom—and we’re so proud to provide our students with enriching experiences that stay with them for life.

Cognita Schools Group

🧠💛 Helping Kids Develop Emotional Intelligence 💛🧠

Understanding and managing emotions is just as important as learning to read or count. When children build emotional intelligence, they become more resilient, empathetic, and confident in navigating everyday challenges.

Here are a few gentle ways to support your child’s emotional growth—starting with simple conversations, modelling empathy, and creating a safe space for feelings. ✨

Cognita Schools Group

📖 Quote of the Week
"Learning is not attained by chance; it must be sought for with ardour and diligence."
– Abigail Adams

True learning takes curiosity, perseverance, and dedication. These are the habits we aim to nurture every day — helping students grow with confidence and purpose.

Cognita Schools Group