PROPOSALS to establish a ‘children’s university’ to boost after-school opportunities for hundreds of students in Burnley are being discussed.

The borough council, the University of Central Lancashire and primary and secondary leaders are involved in talks for the extra-curricular initiative.

One similar venture is already operational in Blackburn, working with youngsters from around 10 schools.

The possible activities on offer could range from trips out to the likes of the Museum of Science and Industry in Manchester or Gulliver’s World in Warrington to involvement in drama workshops, sports, cooking, martial arts, and arts and crafts.

Council chief executive Pam Smith is co-ordinating the effort and is attempting to gauge interest among primary schools and working on a possible business plan with the Children’s University Trust.

Cllr Mark Townsend, in a report to full council, said: “The Children’s University (CU) Trust is a charitable trust which provides children up to 14-year-olds with exciting and innovative learning activities and experiences outside normal school hours.

“If successful, the children’s university will contribute to the efforts of this council to raise the aspirations of our young people early in their life.”

The concept has been up and running in Blackburn, based at Wensley Fold Primary Academy, since 2010.

Council bosses are also in further discussions with UCLan and Burnley College to develop openings for older students.

Degree-level apprenticeships in digital and technology solutions look set to be on offer at the Princess Way campus from September.

A total of 25 firms are said to have expressed an interest in recruiting an apprentice to work on the programme.

Cllr Sue Graham, regeneration cabinet member, said: “The team is also working with UCLan to develop employer interest in three other degree apprenticeships, also to be taught from Burnley.”