Romsey School has become a specialist maths and computing school, after government bosses gave the go-ahead for the new status.

It means more computers for classrooms - and by 2007, 70 per cent of teachers will be using state-of-the-art interactive white boards.

It is also hoped the school will attract more maths and IT teachers, as it becomes one of the first in the country to switch specialisms.

Previously, Romsey School shared special status as a language college with nearby Mountbatten School.

But when the government ruled that joint status was no longer an option, the schools followed different paths.

Romsey School, in Greatbridge Road, followed a subject that headteacher Peter Warburton thinks will be at the centre of education in the future.

"We feel that maths and computing are at the heart of the curriculum and this specialism will be supported by parents and pupils alike."