Pauline Quirke, the star of British sitcom Birds Of A Feather, is launching a performing arts school.

The Pauline Quirke Academy (PQA) will encourage talented children to get involved all areas of the performing arts – ‘from dancing and singing to film and television'.

Quirke and husband and manager Steve Sheen are looking for creative professionals to establish franchises for the academy.

‘Whether you're an experienced performer, a school drama teacher or even a writer or trainee actor, if you have experience working within the arts and a desire to work with children and young people, PQA really could be for you,' said Sheen.

PQA will offer teaching, business and marketing support for a maximum start up fee of £2,500. ‘Our team is keen to work with enthusiastic and talented franchisees to launch PQ Academies across the UK ,' Sheen added.

www.pqacademy.com