Many minority ethnic pupils struggle in mainstream schools. Concern about these children’s chronic underachievement led to this study of the 2,700 Saturday or supplementary1 schools set up by their parents and communities. Usually free and run by volunteers, the schools aim to preserve a community’s heritage and raise the attainment of its children. Not only are they succeeding, but their success is having a positive impact on their children’s achievements in mainstream schools. So what is their secret?