GORDON BROWN has praised the work of headteachers for “changing the lives of young children”.

The Prime Minister met 150 heads from schools across the country at a Downing Street reception.

The teachers had been chosen to attend in recognition of raising achievement at their schools.

A relaxed Mr Brown shared anecdotes about singer Amy Winehouse as he addressed the headteachers.

He said: “Nobody ever forgets the help they have been given by their teachers, and you are very special people.

“You have transformed your schools and you’ve created a situation from where there was difficulty there is now excellence, where standards are improving.”

He said the headteachers had been “pivotal” in driving up standards and “fostering a positive attitude” in their schools.

Mr Brown got his biggest laugh of the evening when he described attending a concert with former South African president Nelson Mandela during a political visit.

Mr Brown explained that Winehouse, during her set, told the audience: “Nelson Mandela and my husband have got a great deal in common.

“Both of them have spent a lot of time in prison.”