A school for future rock stars is opening in Brighton - but wannabe Pop Idols need not apply.

The Brighton Institute of Modern Music is rounding up a host of big names from the world of music to pass on their tips for success.

But Gareth Gates and Will Young, who are touring the country ahead of the final of TV show Pop Idol tomorrow, will not be offered a place.

Managing director Bruce Dickinson, who played lead guitar with Nineties metal group Little Angels, said: "Even though we're all working in the music industry, what they are doing and what we're about is completely different. This is a place for real musicians who want to control their careers."

The team running the school has worked in music for up to 20 years, playing, promoting and managing stars such as David Bowie, Prince, Michael Jackson, The Who, U2, Guns 'n' Roses and Shakin' Stevens.

Between them they have sold more than six million records and notched up more than 50 Top 40 hits.

A building in appropriately-named Rock Place, Brighton, is being converted into the college, with six teaching studios and an 800sqft performance studio.

Future stars from across the UK are signing up to perfect guitar, bass, drumming and song-writing skills.

The first batch of full-time students will enrol in September with part-time courses starting in May. Qualifications available include a degree in professional musicianship.

Yesterday, Mark Richardson and Ace, two members of award-winning group Skunk Anansie, were due to visit Varndean College in Brighton to talk to potential recruits.

The team is running a summer school in association with metal magazine Kerrangg! to give musicians a taste of the courses.

Mr Dickinson said: "We are a school for people dedicated to making a career in music.

"It will be run by musicians for musicians. We know what it is like to be a new artist trying to get into the music industry. It can be tough but we are here to help."

For more information, visit the school's web site at www.bimm.co.uk or contact the team on 01273 626666.