Primary Times Cheshire & The Wirral - Back to School 2023

Open Events

HELLO READERS!

With summer all wrapped up, we hope you’ve had a relaxing and enjoyable time over the break and are ready for the exciting new school year to come! For those of you starting school for the first time, it is a significant milestone in your child’s (and your) life. It is the beginning of their new independence and while it may seem daunting, in a relatively short time, rest assured that children and their grown-ups adjust well to the new routine!

You’ll receive our magazine regularly throughout the school year – we are a “what’s on and where to go” guide, listing child friendly events and activities, local news updates and great competitions. Primary Times will be popped into your child’s book bag just before each holiday, packed full of fun, family-friendly destinations to help plan the entertainment during school breaks! In this issue, as well as great family days out for autumn and theatre performances to look forward to, you’ll find the latest news from local secondary schools for those of you planning the next steps for your Year 6 children.

Finally, it’s worth visiting our website www.primarytimes.co.uk/cheshire to take advantage of extra competitions and special offers.

We’ll see you again before the October half term, and until then, we wish you all a happy and successful start to the new school year.

4 LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

6

YOUR FAMILY ADVENTURE AWAITS WITH A CAMPERVAN ESCAPADE!

Welcome to the world of campervan getaways! As the summer sun sets and the back-to-school season begins, it’s time to start planning your next extraordinary family escape. Imagine embarking on a thrilling journey, where the road becomes your playground, and every day is filled with endless possibilities. Autumn is the perfect time to explore. Picture yourselves by the campfire, sharing stories under the starlit sky and waking up to the autumnal colours right outside your cosy home on wheels. Plus, there’s more exciting news! Sign up to their newsletter and you’ll be the first to get access to their pre-Black Friday exclusive offer – unlocking amazing discounts on Winter 2023 and 2024 campervan escapades.

Don’t let the adventures end – start planning your next break now! Visit the website W: www.camperholiday.co.uk/contact-us to sign up for the newsletter. T: 01606 614 614 E: admin@camperholiday.co.uk

FIVE FUN FAMILY ACTIVITIES FOR £3 EACH!

After the buzz of the summer holidays, it can be hard to find ways to keep you and the kids active whilst working around busy back-toschool schedules, but Brio Leisure have got you covered! Why not grab a Take 5 pass? For just £15, juniors can choose five activities for as little as £3 each when you pay upfront. Juniors can enjoy swim sessions such as wet ‘n’ wild and casual swimming, off-peak racquet sports and gym workouts for those over 12 and fitness classes for those over 14. The most flexible way to visit Brio Leisure is to pay as you go. Whether you’re looking to check out the gym, take a dip in the pool or join one of over 450 weekly fitness classes, then PAYG puts you in control with no long-term commitment. Perfect! Adults can also enjoy five activities across five weeks for just £25! This includes swimming, spa (where available), fitness classes, off-peak racquets and the gym too. For more information, visit your local centre today or check online. Membership and activity terms and conditions apply. W: www.brioleisure.org/take5

Children’s drama school, Perform, has opened classes in Heswall and West Kirby and are offering every child a free trial class.

Packed with self-esteem boosting activities, Perform weekly classes focus on developing confidence, communication, coordination and concentration. Using a mix of drama, dance and singing, these high-energy classes for all abilities are designed to allow even the most reticent children to shine. Each term, children work on a new production, ending with a magical performance for family and friends. Perform Area Partner, Rochine Williams, told Primary Times, “I’m thrilled to be bringing Perform to the North West! Perform has over 300 classes running each week in London, the South East and South West and we look forward to welcoming children to our new Wirral classes.”

From September, children aged 4-7 will join an adventure based on the story of Phileas Fogg, in Around the World. Meanwhile, 7-12s will take part in a modern rock version of Cinderella, in Cinderella Rocks.

Tuesdays at Heswall Hall, CH60 0AF: 4-5pm for 4-7s and 5.05pm-6.05pm for 7-12s. Wednesdays at Westbourne Hall Community Centre, West Kirby, CH48 4DQ: 4-5pm for 4-7s and 5.05pm-6.05pm for 7-12s. W: www.perform.org.uk

While daylight hours are getting shorter, the fun doesn’t have to stop! There are still some great activities going on, so grab a jumper and head out for a family day out and make the most of the new, picturesque season to come.

DAY OUT WITH THOMAS

Join the East Lancashire Railway for spectacular family fun on a Day Out with Thomas!

On 30th September and 1st October, go and meet Sir Topham Hatt and cheeky station sweepers Rusty and Dusty in Bury before taking a ride with Thomas the Tank Engine himself. Complete your day with Thomas themed games and activities, fun fair rides, balloon modellers, singing, dancing and much more. Tickets must be purchased in advance. To find out more, and to book tickets, visit them online. Thomas and friends will be waiting for you! T: 0333 320 2830 W: www.eastlancsrailway.co.uk

INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION OF CONSERVATIONISTS AT CHESTER ZOO

Chester Zoo is a leading conservation and education charity, committed to empowering the conservationists of tomorrow. With over 27,000 animals, as well as workshops, outreach programmes, activities, toolkits and resources, there’s tons of different ways to connect your pupils with the natural world at the zoo. Chester Zoo’s brand new, purpose built Conservation Education Hub has opened ready for the new school year this September and features three large classroom spaces, an open reception area and a digital studio. If you book and visit in 2023, you’ll also receive a FREE animal adoption for your school! W: www.chesterzoo.org

GANDEYS CIRCUS PRESENTS “THE HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR”

As a very special (trick or) treat for Halloween, Gandeys Circus returns once again with a brand-new action-packed legendary Halloween Spooktacular Big Top show for all the family running in Trentham from 13th-29th October. There are plenty of offers to be had, making this an affordable family day out! All seats are only £9.99 on Friday 13th October (£4 supplement for Ringside); all 6.30pm shows between 23rd-27th October are 2 for the price of 1 (excludes side); Sundays at 12 noon - 1 child goes free with each adult paying full price; Family tickets from £48 for 2 adults/2 children or 1 adult/3 children. Don’t miss out on the spooktacular fun!

W: www.gandeyscircus.com

PREPARE FOR A JAM-PACKED AUTUMN OF SPECTACULAR SPACE ADVENTURES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY AT JODRELL BANK

At Jodrell Bank, discover their First Light Pavilion, stare into space and learn some rocket science, all whilst exploring a UNESCO World Heritage site! Watch ‘We Are Guardians’, one of their NEW spectacular planetarium shows, treat your astronauts to lunch in the cafe, run wild in the woods, or enjoy a picnic under the mighty Lovell telescope. A visit to Jodrell Bank is out of this world, and if you book in advance, you can visit again FREE for 12 months! Boom! Tickets from just £8. W: www.jodrellbank.net

WHAT’S ON WHERE

ONGOING

Stephen Hawking at Work

Explore incredible objects from Professor Stephen Hawking’s office in this new display about the working life and personality of the world-renowned theoretical physicist. Science and Industry Museum, Manchester. W: www.scienceandindustrymuseum.org.uk

Party Time at Brio Leisure

Are you tired of the same old birthday party routine? Look no further than Brio Leisure’s Kids Parties! The team know how to throw an amazing party that your child and their friends will remember for years to come. A variety of packages are on offer and options to fit your needs and budget. With seven centres across Cheshire West and Chester, Brio Leisure is the perfect destination for your child’s next birthday celebration. Check online or contact your local centre for more information. W: www.brioleisure.org/party

Power UP

Play the very best video games from the past five decades from Pong to Pacman, Mario to Minecraft, plus a selection of games created in Manchester. Face off against friends and families in multiplayer showdowns, rediscover your childhood favourites and test out some of the latest virtual reality experiences. Science and Industry Museum. Weekends and school holidays. W: www.scienceandindustrymuseum.org.uk

The New Way To Discover Port Sunlight

Find out the history of this special village at Port Sunlight Museum, experience what life was like over a century ago in the Edwardian Worker’s Cottage, and immerse yourself in the story of soap at the interactive SoapWorks.

W: www.portsunlightvillage.com

Our Fragile Space

A ground-breaking photography exhibition about the reality of space debris. There are now more than 160 million human-made pieces of space waste circling our planet – the vast majority of them in the same low Earth orbit as thousands of satellites that support and enable everyday life on Earth. Photography by Max Alexander. Exhibition in partnership with Discover the bluedot & SKAO. Running until 17th September. Jodrell Bank.

W: www.jodrellbank.net

A Healthy Profit exhibition at Quarry Bank

A Healthy Profit explores what life was like for workers at Quarry Bank, and the conditions they endured. Journey through the different parts of the human body, with interactive displays, and encounter an array of historic medical equipment that would have been used to treat the workers. Open until 19th September.

W: www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Children and War

What is it like to be caught up in war as a child? Evacuees, refugees, targets and combatants share their experiences. Part of the Big Picture Show. An immersive 360-degree thought-provoking multimedia experience. IWM North.

W: www.iwm.org.uk

Corn Exchange Manchester

Make Manchester’s Corn Exchange a one-stop destination for family fun. Kids will love the excitement of Escape Hunt, where games themed around everything from Doctor Who to Vikings are on offer. There are plenty of restaurants and a resident hotel to make the perfect break.

W: www.cornexchangemanchester.co.uk

Sink your teeth into an amazing Shark Experience

When you enter the immersive world of Planet Shark: Predator or Prey at Chester Zoo, you’ll be surrounded by incredible underwater projections featuring stunning footage that tells the story of how important sharks are to our oceans, and the planet. Running until 31st October.

W: www.chesterzoo.org

Five Activities For £3 Each

Tracs Shop and Hire

Tracs (UK) Ltd is based in the heart of Delamere Forest and offers individuals of all ages and ability the opportunity to experience cycling through the scenic forest either on wide open family friendly forest roads or for the more skilled there are miles of uninterrupted single-tracks to discover. Bike hire and an on-site shop are available alongside bike servicing, children’s parties, guided rides and even learn to ride days.

T: 01606 881802

W: www.delamerebikes.co.uk

Experiment

Get hands on and see science brought to life in the free interactive gallery designed for the whole family to enjoy together. Science and Industry Museum, Manchester. W: www.scienceandindustrymuseum.org.uk

Adventure Parc Snowdonia

At the heart of the majestic Conwy Valley in North Wales sits Adventure Parc Snowdonia – a world-class destination for nature-inspired, adrenaline infused travel. From the Ninja assault course and extreme slides to indoor caving, zip-lining and water based fun, it all centres around a world-first 300-metre inland surf lagoon that generates a guaranteed perfect and consistent surf for lessons, sessions paddle boarding, open swimming and more.

W: www.adventureparcsnowdonia.com

The Heritage Trail at Liverpool ONE

The Heritage Trail invites visitors on a journey to explore more than 300 years of Liverpool’s history. Discovering the events, places and people that shaped the maritime powerhouse that is Liverpool. To follow The Heritage Trail, download the Liverpool ONE MyONE app or collect the printed map from the Information Centre on Wall Street.

W: www.liverpool-one.com

Zog Trail at Delamere

Aquester Campervan Getaways

Autumn is the perfect time to explore. Picture yourselves by the campfire, sharing stories under the starlit sky and waking up to the autumnal colours right outside your cosy home on wheels. Start planning your next break now! Visit their website to sign up for the newsletter.

W: www.camperholiday.co.uk/ contact-us

Nature Trail at Liverpool ONE

For all the mini explorers amongst us, Liverpool ONE’s Nature Trail is the perfect excuse to get outdoors and tour Chavasse Park learning about the vast array of resident plants and wildlife. The free trail is self-guided by a map available online or at the Tourist Information Centre on Wall Street and it takes around 60 minutes to complete.

W: www.liverpool-one.com/ nature-trail

SEPTEMBER

Sunday 3rd

Classic & Performance Motor Show

Cheshire will be treated to displays of classic cars, light commercials, motorcycles, kit cars, custom, modern classics, and classic Land Rovers, as well as an exciting auto jumble and a host of trade stands. You can also feast your eyes on retro cars up to the year 2007 and vintage vans, buses, and tractors. Arley Hall and Gardens, Northwich. W: www.arleyhallandgardens.com

Friday 8th

Heritage Open Days in Port Sunlight

Join a fascinating talk and tour of Port Sunlight’s historic Gladstone Theatre, explore Bridge Cottage and step back

We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip…or promise!

Beat the back to school blues. For just £15, juniors can choose five activities for as little as £3 each when you pay upfront. Juniors can enjoy swim sessions such as wet ‘n’ wild and casual swimming, off-peak racquet sports and gym workouts for those over 12 and fitness classes for those over 14. Visit your local centre today or visit www.brioleisure.org/take5

Join family favourite Zog on a fun forest adventure at Delamere Forest. With colourful panels, fun activity pack and an amazing augmented reality Zog app, follow the interactive trail to find out how your little dragons can help care for the forest, others, and themselves. Kids can unleash their imagination and become like Zog by wearing wings and completing exciting challenges to earn golden stars. W: forestryengland.uk/delamere-forest

Fun Dog Show at the Farm

Ten novelty classes including Saddest Eyes, Waggiest Tail and Scruffiest Dog, plus a fun agility course (try it if you’re fit enough!). ‘Show Champion’ trophy to be won and rosettes awarded up to 6th place. W: www.tattonpark.org.uk

Heritage Discovery Day

Chester Cathedral’s Heritage Discovery Day is returning for its third year! Explore the ever-popular theme of Tudors as never before in this free event. Set to include lots of interactive and engaging ways to reimagine our Tudor heritage in the heart of Chester. W: www.chestercathedral.com

Saturday 9th

Heritage Open Days –Creativity Unwrapped

Celebrate the creativity of Macclesfield and it’s heritage at the Heritage Open Day. There will be walking tours, you can meet the Heritage Hunters, find out about the Pattern Book conservation project, and get creative in the classroom. Macclesfield Silk Museum. W: www.thesilkmuseum.co.uk

Sunday 10th

Bark in the Park 2023

This fun event is for members of the public and dog owners and lovers to meet and enter their dogs into competitions. Royton, Oldham.

W: www.visitmanchester.com

Tuesday 12th

We Are Stars

We Are Stars takes you on an exciting journey to discover our cosmic origins through use of amazing animation. Tickets £4/£6, available as an add-on to general admission, suitable for astronauts aged 5+. Show times: 11am and 3pm daily.

W: www.jodrellbank.net

Friday 15th

Bennetts British Superbike Championship

Running on 15th and 16th September. W: www.oultonpark.co.uk

Saturday 16th

Wildlife Connections Festival

Chester Zoo have two jam-packed days filled with wild activities, enthralling performances and amazing speakers that will have you captivated by the wildlife found right on our doorstep. Enjoy live music on stage throughout the day from local artists. All performances, activities and workshops are FREE to watch and take part in! Cold refreshments will be available to purchase at the festival (cash only). Also on 17th September. W: www.chesterzoo.org

Jamboree Weekend

Enjoy an incredible discounted admission price of just £12 per person for a group of 20 or more, plus one free leader place with every nine children. Also on 17th September. Gulliver’s Theme Park. W: www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk

Tuesday 19th

Wirral Grammar School for Girls

Open Evening from 5.30-8pm. Visit their website for more information. W: www.wirralgirlsschool.co.uk

Saturday 23rd & Sunday 24th

The Great British Food Festival

Arley Hall is set to host a delectable gastronomic extravaganza as the Great British Food Festival arrives on 23rd & 24th September. Prepare to tantalise your taste buds with an array of mouthwatering dishes, artisanal delights, and culinary workshops, all while soaking in the stunning surroundings of this historic venue. Join in the weekend of foodie fun, featuring celebrity chefs, live entertainment, and a vibrant marketplace. Don’t miss this ultimate celebration of food and drink! Arley Hall and Gardens, Northwich.

W: www.arleyhallandgardens.com

We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip…or promise!

Manchester Medieval Festival

A unique family-friendly festival in Manchester’s historic medieval quarter returns for its second year. Also on 24th September. Long Millgate, Manchester. W: www.visitmanchester.com

Sunday 24th

The Wizarding Adventure

During this magical interactive experience you’ll take lessons in the basics of broomsticks, practice your potion making, be instructed in incantations and learn to tattle and talk with a tawny owl. A perfect adventure for students age 5-12. This event also takes place on 27th October. East Lancashire Railway. W: www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

Make it! Creative Sunday Drop-Ins

Join in on the first and last Sunday of every month for some hands-on crafting and baking fun! Manchester Jewish Museum, M8 8LW. W: www.visitmanchester.com

Saturday 30th

Harvest Festival

Experience the joy of harvest season at Tatton Park’s Farm. 11am-4pm. Also on 1st October. Tatton Park Farm. W: www.tattonpark.org.uk

Day Out with Thomas

Open Morning

An ideal opportunity for children and their parents to explore the Junior School at The Grange Junior School, Hartford. Take part in some exciting activities and meet the teachers. Please visit the school’s website if you would like to register your interest for the Open Day or book onto an activity day. W: www.grange.org.uk

Chainsaw Carving at Macclesfield Forest

Drop in at any time between 10.30am and 2.30pm to watch Ed carve a native animal out of a piece of timber using a chainsaw. The carving will remain in situ as part of a sculpture trail. W: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk

Saturday 14th

Open Days at King’s School, Chester

Find out more about how wellbeing and academic success go hand-in hand at King’s at this year’s Open Days on 30th September (Senior School & Sixth Form) and 14th October (Infants & Junior School).

W: www.kingschester.co.uk

Fright Fiesta

Festival-style Halloween that’s bursting with colour, costumes, and music. Running until 3rd November. Gulliver’s Theme Park.

W: www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk

Join the East Lancashire Railway for spectacular family fun on a Day Out with Thomas! Meet Sir Topham Hatt and cheeky station sweepers

Rusty and Dusty in Bury before taking a ride with Thomas the Tank Engine himself. Complete your day with Thomas themed games and activities, fun fair rides, balloon modellers, singing, dancing and much more. Also on Sunday 1st October.

OCTOBER

Friday 13th

Gandeys Circus Spooktacular

Gandeys Circus returns once again to Trentham with a brand-new

Tuesday 24th

Holiday Clubs at Chester Zoo

Discover the amazing animals, habitats and the remarkable conservation work taking place all around the world. All this learning happens through a range of fun activities both in and out of the learning centre. A three day holiday club running until Thursday 26th

ABBEY GATE COLLEGE HELPS TO GIVE PUPILS A CLEAR SENSE OF SELF

Abbey Gate College is an independent school for pupils aged 4-18 years, located in the historic Saighton Grange and Aldford Village, nestled in 20 acres of beautiful grounds while offering modern facilities. The College is a unique, inspiring and nurturing place to learn and grow, where the caring and committed teaching and support staff do all that they can to help your child fulfil their potential.

The College is a safe and friendly school community, where they work with each child’s individual interests, passions and strengths; while also encouraging them to try new things, take risks and be creative. The aim of the College is to lead and coach each child during these critical, formative years, so that they may achieve the best they can academically with a clear sense of self and how they can go on to make a positive difference to our world in the future - with courage and with compassion. W: www.abbeygatecollege.co.uk

OPEN MORNING AND ACTIVITY DAYS FOR PRE-SCHOOLERS AT THE GRANGE JUNIOR SCHOOL

The Grange Junior School in Hartford has planned a programme of exciting and engaging themed activity days for pre-schoolers who will be starting school in September 2024. Their fun Autumn Adventures and Stay and Play mornings give families a glimpse of everything that this lovely primary school has to offer children. The school’s annual Open Morning also takes place on 30th September, and this is an ideal opportunity for children and their parents to go and explore the Junior School, take part in some exciting activities and meet the teachers. If you would like to register your interest for the Open Day or book onto an activity day, then visit the school’s website. W: www.grange.org.uk

ALDERLEY EDGE IS AN APPLE DISTINGUISHED SCHOOL INSPIRING CREATIVITY AND INNOVATION

As an Apple Distinguished School, AESG is part of a network of the most innovative schools in the world. Apple Distinguished Schools are centres of leadership and educational excellence that demonstrate Apple’s vision for learning with technology. As a school, AESG integrates Apple products into its teaching and learning so that all pupils get the best possible educational outcomes. From visiting an active volcanic site in Iceland with the power of VR to listening to a workshop on how to use AI to enhance learning, AESG’s use of Apple products inspires creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking; foundational skills for future success. W: www.aesg.co.uk

THE KING’S SCHOOL SHORTLISTED FOR PRESTIGIOUS AWARDS

The King’s School Chester is celebrating after being shortlisted in two categories of the prestigious Independent Schools of the Year Awards. Shortlisted as Independent School of the Year for Partnerships and for Student Wellbeing, Deputy Head Pastoral Claire Sumner is delighted that the school has been recognised for its work within the Chester Schools Together partnership and to the wellbeing of its pupils.

She said: “Student wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do, empowering students to build a toolkit of practical skills and built-in resilience so that they achieve their full potential and are ready when life throws unexpected challenges their way.”

Find out more about how wellbeing and academic success go hand-in hand at King’s at this year’s Open Days on 30th September (Senior School & Sixth Form) and 14th October (Infants & Junior School).

E: admissions@kingschester.co.uk

W: www.kingschester.co.uk

CHILD-CENTRED HOLISTIC EDUCATION AT ST DAVID’S COLLEGE

St David’s College is a mainstream co-educational independent school for children aged 9 to 19 years old. Their award-winning school is set in a 30-acre Tudor Estate, nestled between Snowdonia National Park and the North Wales coastline. Snowdonia is their classroom, their theatre, their playground, and their lifeblood. Their aim is a simple one - to create a unique whole-person education centred on the individual, built on Christian principles, and embedded in a family atmosphere. Taking a ‘whole person’ approach, allows them to find the true gifts of every individual and tailor pupils’ education accordingly. For more information, please get in touch or visit them online.

E: admissions@stdavidscollege.co.uk

W: www.stdavidscollege.co.uk

GIRLS ENCOURAGED TO BE THE BEST VERSION OF THEMSELVES AT WIRRAL GRAMMAR SCHOOL

At Wirral Grammar School for Girls, the focus is very much on the individual. All pupils are encouraged to be the best versions of themselves, whether that is a commitment to academic excellence, helping in the community or challenging themselves through sporting, artistic and musical endeavours. This is an outstanding learning environment (Ofsted, December 2022) where pupils are aspirational, going on to top universities and degree apprenticeships. It is also a place where people are kind and welcoming, behaviour is excellent and no matter who they are, pupils can push themselves to be the best they can be. W: www.wirralgirls.co.uk

YEAR SIX TAKE ON BUSINESS ENTERPRISE CHALLENGE AT FIRS PREP SCHOOL

Children in Year Six at The Firs Prep School in Chester, the leading independent school for boys and girls from 0-11 years old, have been busy with their Business Enterprise challenge this year. Teams of two, three or four Year Six children have created some amazing products, produced detailed business plans, devised a pricing structure, created effective marketing, and have then made their products and sold them. As well as a lot of fun, the business enterprise provides a wonderful learning opportunity for the children. In addition, they raised £549.82 for MacMillan Cancer Support and North Clwyd Animal Rescue. W: www.firsschool.net

TRANSITION WITH QUEEN’S

The Saturday Series is back at The Queen’s School and your daughter is not going to want to miss the next set of activity mornings for girls in Years 4, 5 and 6, designed to ensure a seamless transition to high school. At Queen’s, they believe it is paramount that pupils feel not only prepared but genuinely excited about this important milestone in their educational journey and creating a warm and nurturing environment is their top priority. They understand that a smooth transition involves more than just academic preparation; it encompasses emotional wellbeing and a strong sense of belonging. They want them to feel like valued members of the school family from day one. Their outstanding pastoral care ensures that each student’s happiness is their utmost priority and firmly believe that happy students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Spaces on the activity mornings are limited so register your daughter for Sweet Science, Desert Island Escape and Superstar Sports today to avoid missing out. Register online at W: www.thequeensschool.co.uk/saturday-series or call the Admissions Team on T: 01244 312 078

DISCOVER THE FRIENDLINESS OF QUEEN’S, a place where every young mind is nurtured and girls thrive, learn, and become the very best version of themselves.

Queen’s provides an exceptional educational journey for girls aged 4 to 18. Our small family environment means every girl is known personally and feels seen, heard, and valued, ensuring she flourishes academically, socially, and emotionally.

Come along to our Open Events and see for yourself how we empower girls to explore their passions and ignite their curiosity.

her

The most Fantasmagorical stage musical in the history of everything!

MANCHESTER OPERA HOUSE

www.manchestertheatres.com

Monday 18th –

Saturday 30th September

ANNIE

This ‘glorious revival’ (The Times) stars Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood (Mon-Fri performances) and Jodie Prenger (Saturday performances) as the tyrannical Miss Hannigan!

M&S BANK ARENA

www.mandsbankarena.com

Sunday 17th September

Monday 23 –

Sunday 29 October

A high-flying, fun-filled Truly Scrumptious adventure for the whole family!

ALTRINCHAM GARRICK PLAYHOUSE

www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk

Sunday 24th September

FILM SCREENING: CIRQUE DU SOLEIL – SALTIMBANCO

Experience the sheer power and delight of Saltimbanco on the big screen at Altrincham Garrick Cinema!

Monday 23rd –

Sunday 29th October

CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG

Plan ahead for an October treat. This half term musical is perfect for all generations.

AO ARENA

www.ao-arena.com

Wednesday 18th October

JURASSIC PARK 30TH

ANNIVERSARY CONCERT

This autumn the acclaimed blockbuster will be presented in venues around the country, while the film’s renowned awardwinning John Williams score is performed live by a full orchestra.

THE LOWRY

www.thelowry.com

Sunday 24th September

ANDY AND THE ODD SOCKS – THE DIAL IT UP 11 TOUR

Who are the Odd Socks?

The oddest tale of Britain’s best new band!

Saturday 30th September

OLAF FALAFEL’S SUPER STUPID SHOW

Join comedian and children’s author Olaf Falafel for an hour of kid’s comedy which is now 20% more stupider than ever before.

Sunday 22nd October WILL TELL AND THE BIG BAD BARON

This original show for families introduces a new legendary figure to British drama: the ‘Swiss Robin Hood’ Wilhelm Tell, who refused to bow to a tyrant and famously had to shoot an apple off his child’s head with a crossbow as a punishment.

Tuesday 24th –Sunday 29th October THE SMEDS AND THE SMOOS

Soar into space with this exciting adaptation of the award-winning book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.

We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip…or promise!

BLIPPI – THE WONDERFUL WORLD TOUR

The return of the vivacious, energetic, and educational antics of global sensation Blippi.

Sunday 29th October

JURASSIC PARK 30th ANNIVERSARY CONCERT

In celebration of the triple Oscar winning Jurassic Park’s 30th anniversary. Giving audiences the chance to see the sci-fi classic like never before, the 1993 Stephen Spielberg hit will be shown in HD on big screens, accompanied by the Hallé Orchestra, one of the UK’s top symphonic ensembles, performing John Williams’ iconic score live on stage.

ROYAL LIVERPOOL PHILHARMONIC

Hope Street, Liverpool www.liverpoolphil.com

Sunday 22nd October

FAMILY CONCERT: FAMILY FILM FAVOURITES

Join the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and host Alasdair Malloy for a celebration of soundtracks from some of the best-loved family films of all time. From Star Wars to Harry Potter, Encanto to Frozen.

STORYHOUSE THEATRE

Chester 01244 409 113

Thursday 28th September

– Sunday 1st October

THE WIZARD OF OZ BY CASTAWAY THEATRE

Featuring the well-known tale of Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion and the iconic music from the original film, this is a hurricane trip to the Emerald City that you and your family won’t want to miss!

Sunday 8th October

THE KING OF NOTHING

Monstro Theatre’s new show

The King of Nothing is an anarchic piece of musical puppet theatre inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s classic The Emperor’s New Clothes.

Saturday 21st –

Sunday 22nd October

THE SINGING

MERMAID

This classic story by Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks, adapted for the stage with enchanting puppets by Lyndie Wright and music & songs by Barb Jungr, is a perfect piece of theatre for 3 to 8 year-olds and their families.

Saturday 21st –

Sunday 29th October

A MIDSUMMER NIGHTS DREAM (FOR KIDS!)

An abridged re-telling of Shakespeare’s classic tale, set under the light of the moon. This is a fantastic opportunity to introduce your young people to Shakespeare.

Z ARTS

www.z-arts.org

Saturday 23rd September

THE REALLY FABULOUS FAMILY CABARET

Six marvellous highly skilled performers bring you a riproaring ride of fabulousness. Song, dance, and speciality acts share the stage to bring you a joyous fest of a show.

Saturday 14th –Sunday 15th October

MICHAEL MORPURGO’S I BELIEVE IN UNICORNS

Award-winning storyteller Danyah Miller brings bestselling children’s author Michael Morpurgo’s treasured story to life.

Saturday 14th October

THE WIZARD OF OZ

Enjoy Dorothy, the Scarecrow, Tin Man, Lion, and Toto too as they seek the Wonderful Wizard to find that there’s no place like home!

FLAT HANDS COLLECTION

Sign Language is a visual means of communicating using gestures, facial expression, and body language. Sign Language is used mainly by people who are Deaf or have hearing impairments. British Sign Language (BSL) has its own grammatical structure and syntax, as a language it is not dependant nor is it strongly related to spoken English. BSL is the preferred language of around 145,000 people within the UK.

TEST YOUR FINGER SPELLING SKILLS

Can you spell these school words to a friend or teacher?

LEARNING.. SIGN LANGUAGE

FLAT HANDS COLLECTION

For more helpful sign language advice/tips visit the BSL website: www.british-sign.co.uk

* This finger spelling alphabet is for a right handed person to use. A left handed version can be downloaded from the BSL website.