SHE became a household name in the ITV soap opera Coronation Street as nanny Claire Peacock

Now Julia Haworth has stepped off the famous cobbles into a new role in the classroom to inspire the next generation of actors.

Julia, who played Claire for eight years — finding herself at the centre of some dramatic storylines — is completing a teaching qualification at Bolton College in conjunction with the University of Bolton.

And as part of her practical teacher training she has been leading lectures in TV and film for Bolton College's performing arts students, giving them the opportunity to develop their skills in acting for the camera.

With appearances in over 16 TV series and more than 25 years' experience in the entertainment industry Julia, is well placed to teach the masterclasses.

As well as her long stint on the "Street" which ended in 2011, she more recently played Minnie in The Royals, alongside Elizabeth Hurley.

And in her new role, Julia has helped students to produce their own show reels, and delivered invaluable workshops on both audition technique and the practicalities of life on a TV set.

She has also led workshops on the various careers available within the arts industry.

Julia also assisted acting tutor Kyle Cambray, who used his industry links to secure starring roles for the students in the latest music video of electronic dance duo Solomon Grey, hailed as the ‘”future of Radio 1” in 2013.

Julia said: “As an actor still working professionally within the entertainment industry, the knowledge and skills I am teaching to the Performing Arts students here at Bolton College are 100 per cent up to date, accurate and relevant.

"This is imperative in a rapidly changing industry and in helping the learners with their future employability."

It is not the first time, students have been taught by the stars of the much loved television soap, Julie Hesmondhalgh, Coronation Street’s Hayley Cropper has visited the college to lead acting workshops.

Rachel Eden, curriculum leader of performing arts at Bolton College, said: "The TV and Film Unit is an integral part of our performing arts curriculum.

“So many of our learners want to progress to careers in the TV and film industry, both in front of and behind the camera, so it’s important that our classes reflect this.

“Julia has a wealth of knowledge and experience and it’s been amazing to see our students grow in confidence. One of our learners, Kamran, has even appeared in productions for Sky, Netflix and ITV."