Two Bradford schools have been named among the country's elite in the annual report of a school watchdog today.

The report by Her Majesty's Chief Inspector of Schools singles out St Anthony's RC Primary in Clayton and the Sacred Heart Catholic Primary in Ben Rhydding.

They are listed as among the top 32 in Yorkshire and Humber region inspected last year, and among the best 456 across the country. The report is used to highlight good practice and covers schools inspected by Ofsted in the 2001-2 academic year, as well as those who have managed to haul themselves out of Special Measures.

Unveiling the report, David Bell, the chief inspector of schools, said: "I believe these success stories are a testament to both the talent and dedication of the staff who work in these schools and colleges, and the pupils themselves."

In Bradford, schools chiefs paid their own tributes to staff at St Anthony's and Sacred Heart schools.

Councillor David Ward, executive member for education, said: "It's great to see the hard work of pupils and staff at these two schools being recognised by Ofsted.

"This is more evidence that standards in Bradford are on the up, following the positive comments made by Ofsted in its report on education in the district."

Mark Pattison, managing director of Education Bradford, said: "We are delighted these two schools have been commended by Ofsted. We will be keen to use the obvious strengths in these schools to help with our overall strategy of raising standards."

Phil Green, director of education at Bradford Council, added: "I would like to pass on my congratulations to the staff and pupils. We hope now more and more schools will appear on this list each year, as standards continue to improve."

Bradford has two schools on the 'top' list, while neighbours Kirklees and Leeds have seven each. At St Anthony's, Clayton, delighted head teacher Barbara Ford, pictured with pupils, said: "The whole team believes in lifelong learning and strives to maintain and improve the education we provide for the children.

"The team includes the parish of St Anthony's, and the parents."

Special features at the school which they are particularly proud of include a healthy tuck shop, which does a roaring trade in toast and orange juice; and writing lunchboxes and rucksacks taken home by five and six-year-olds which are filled with treasures and incentives to encourage them to write.