Budding actors, singers, dancers and musicians could soon get some tips from a star of the screen, right on their doorstep.

The Pauline Quirke Academy (PQA) opened in Romford, Essex, in 2007 and is due to open another branch in Dartford next month.

It was set up by the actress, best known for her role in the hit comedy Birds Of A Feather, and offers youngsters the chance to hone their talent in a variety of performing arts.

The actress said: “I started PQA because when I was younger some of my happiest times were spent in drama classes.

“Looking back I can see that the skills I learnt and the friends I made were really where it all started for me, so I wanted to re-create that opportunity for a new generation of young people.

“I am delighted that we are able to bring our academy to the Dartford area, and to allow more students to experience what PQA has to offer.”

Pupils aged between four and 18 will be able to attend three hours of comedy, drama, musical theatre, film and television classes every Saturday morning.

They will also have the opportunity to enjoy West End productions, special lessons with Pauline, and even see their own short film productions screened at the Empire cinema, Leicester Square.

Dartford’s Longfield Academy will play host to a free open day on Saturday, April 16, from 9.45am until 1pm. Free taster sessions will also be available.

Mark Bowman will be principal of the new academy and is keen to help young people fulfil their potential, starting with the open day.

He said: “Our aim is to introduce the ethos behind PQA, to demonstrate what we do and how we achieve our goals, how children will benefit from our classes and, above all, to allow children to get a flavour of the academy.

“Pauline wanted to re-create her experience for children as she absolutely loved her weekend drama school.

"Young people can learn new skills for life, not necessarily just for use within the performing arts.” - Academy principal Mark Bowman.

“She believes that is where other young people can learn new skills for life, not necessarily just for use within the performing arts.”

Children who attend the open day will be divided into age groups and allowed to sample each class, with parents welcome to stay and watch.

Refreshments will be available and PQA staff will answer questions.