Bradford College is one of the best in the country and council chiefs must look to it to help any other failing schools, the Prime Minister will say today.

The college is one of 12 schools or colleges and one university to be accredited with a “kitemark” and become Accredited School Providers (ASPs).

The announcement by Gordon Brown and Schools Secretary Ed Balls will mean Bradford College will be eligible to take over up to two underperforming schools in need of “rapid, sustainable improvement.”

In time Bradford College could also apply to lead three or more schools.

To achieve accreditation, the college had to demonstrate sound governance, a highly effective leadership and management, and have a strong model for managing and improving schools.

Mr Balls said: “This announcement is about putting the best school leaders at the heart of making our school system great.

"The successful schools and organisations announced today are amongst the most outstanding school providers in the country.

“They have a track record in not only running just one excellent school, but the ability to spread this excellence to other schools.

"That’s why we’re giving them this kitemark, and encouraging more to apply.”

Ministers say Bradford Council’s education chiefs would be expected to bring the college in to “drive up standards.”

Bradford College was recently presented with a National Beacon Award for its outstanding contribution to equality and diversity by the Association of Colleges and awarded the Training Quality Standard.

Mr Balls said: “Schools standards have been transformed over the last 13 years, but we will will not be content until every school is succeeding.

“Alongside our investment in teachers, support staff and buildings, reforms like this will ensure every school gives pupils the best possible start in life.”

Today’s announcement of top schools and colleges are the first in the country. Ministers hope more will achieve the standard and help improve struggling schools.