This paper describes a research project alongside two other studies designed to bring about major improvement in school and Pasifika student success. The three studies together illustrate critical components for building success for Pasifika students in large scale, high-quality schools. The paper reports on evidential aspects of Pasifika education in particular bilingual education work that are aimed at long-term changes in Pasifika education to bring greater success through research, practice, collaboration and policy change.