CITY dignitaries heard how technology status has transformed a Worcester high school as it celebrated its official opening as a specialist site.

Teachers at Elgar Technology College now have personal laptop computers, students have extra computers and rooms have been refurbished since it won specialist status.

MP Mike Foster officially opened the new technology college at the ceremony last night.

Elgar High was announced as a winner of technology status in June this year.

"This is the culmination of three years of planning and a lot of hard work," said deputy head Julia Cook.

"But at the end it's paid off and will make a big difference to young people in this area. It will enable us to do much more within Elgar and the community."

The Bilford Road school is opening up its doors to the local community with lifelong learning opportunities available.

Mike Foster told the teachers, governors and guests that Elgar was leading the way.

"The school has worked tremendously hard to achieve this," he said.

"I've had phonecalls from schools across the county wanting to know the secret of its success.

"We want more specialist schools. We only want winners and that term applies to Elgar Technology College."

The Mayor of Worcester, Councillor David Clark, headteachers of other schools, representatives of Worcestershire County Council, and business sponsors were also present.

"I'm delighted to be here," said Julien Kramer, director of education at Worcestershire County Council.

"I think it reflects all the hard work that takes place in this school and the confidence the Government has in this school's leadership."

Mr Kramer said the council's local education directorate was backing further specialist bids.

"This is part of the strategic plan for the whole authority," he said.

"Right from the start I sat down with the heads so people didn't waste their time bidding against each other.

"It's not just about the extra funding it's about giving children better opportunities."