Start Smart Stay Safe (S4) uses a strengths-based approach to teaching and learning. Strengths-based is about paying attention to the good things (being optimistic) and downplaying the not so good (being negative). Being strengths-based gives feelings of hope as daily challenges are seen as opportunities for growth and learning.

Strengths-based is about paying attention to positive behaviours, skills and characteristics we possess. As we focus on these positive behaviours, instead of a person’s faults or negative behaviours, we encourage and will motivate more of the positive behaviours.

S4 focuses on children’s strengths. The more we focus on what our children are doing correctly, the more likely it is that they will grow into happy, responsible adults. S4 encourages children, schools, and police officers to work together in building a safe and caring community.