Operator Camp Beaumont, which has been attracting youngsters with an interest in showbiz for 25 years, says it has never experienced such demand from fame-hungry children and attributes it to reality TV shows. 'Everyone thinks they can be the next Pop Idol,' said a spokeswoman.

While the camp is centred around having fun, some of the guests have their future careers firmly in mind.

'They do take it seriously,' said the Camp Beaumont spokeswoman. 'Some are from prestigious backgrounds and have already been successful, but we don't keep track of whether they go on to work in the industry. They are assessed through the week and do a modelling show, and they get to keep a video and a photo at the end, which could make the beginning of a portfolio.'

The one-week course held in West Runton, near Norwich, and in Albrighton, Staffordshire, covers cold reading, acting to camera, learning how to audition, catwalk modelling, etiquette and make-up application. Available to six- to 15-year-olds, the course mostly attracts girls.

The course costs £419 per person. A 'Moviemaker' course, which offers training in filming and production is also available and attracts a higher percentage of boys.

Ryanair extend seat sale to 27September 15/09/2004