IT was definitely a date for Bridget Jones' diary - her Hereford school was saluted in a new national report for moving from 'special measures' to being special.

Bridget is chairman of governors at Brookfield School which, just a year ago, was still branded by an OFSTED verdict on its operation.

But in two terms Brookfield - which takes on some of the toughest teaching challenges in the county - turned itself around.

Last week the school, serving around 240 pupils with statements of special educational need or emotional and behavioural difficulties, was saluted by the Chief Inspector of Schools for its 'significant progress'.

With 'strong leadership', 'dedicated staff' and a 'positive commitment to tackling weaknesses head on' the school can look forward to a bright future, according to the Chief Inspector's annual report 2002/2003.

Bridget paid tribute to the 'enthusiastic and committed support' of fellow governors, parents and the local education authority in bringing Brookfield back from the brink.

l Mordiford Primary School is getting used to accolades. The Chief Inspector's report hails the 'high standard' of education on offer, citing an outstanding OFSTED report as evidence.

Its head, Julie Bourdon-Pierre, said the school's success was about making everybody feel valued and empowered.

"Sustaining improvement is a journey that never ends," she said.