A tuition centre for seven to 19-year-olds has been launched in Blackburn.

The privately-run Institute of Learning and Mentoring is based in Apex House offices in Preston New Road.

Run by former Beardwood High School pupil Dr Bano Murtuja, from Blackburn, and her business partner, Khurram Mughad, 33 from Manchester the centre is dedicated to mentoring young people through their academic, behavioural and career development paths.

It aims to do this by complementing school and college work and providing targeted academic support for Key Stages 2, 3, 4, GCSE and A-level's in English, maths and science.

The centre, which already has 32 students, will also offer personal, social and health education and citizenship programmes.

Students will also be put in touch with mentors across the country who will offer and advice at university level.

The centre will initially have three tutors including Dr Murtuja who will teach groups of four in two hour sessions. They cost £15 a time although ILM hope to offer scholar-ships down the line.

A sister centre is due to open in Manchester later this year.

Dr Murtuja, 28, who has previously lectured at Leeds University said: "We want to hear from everyone across the community."

For more details call 0800 3102060.