Effective schools develop strategies to ensure learning is the key focus and the school is a friendly place. They use open communication and focus groups to engage students, staff and parents in the planning process, to review and develop ideas for improvement. Effective schools have practical strategies for managing bullying and difficult students. Peer mediation is an innovative way to develop student leaders, and to help students manage conflict, build confidence and develop negotiation skills. Teachers need to be goal focused and ensure students are connected, happy and motivated to learn.