Primary Times Greater Manchester - Back to School 2021

40,000 COPIES FOR FAMILIES OF PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN

Greater Manchester

www.primarytimes.co.uk Back to School issue 172 6th September – 10th October 2021

The world’s most visited multi-sensory experience comes to MediaCity, Salford Quays this Autumn “A stunning visual experience” - Elle

Created by Grande Experiences

Manchester’s best family guide for what’s on and where to go in the region

Laugh again

There’s life after divorce.

The decision to separate is never easy. Our highly skilled team treat every case with sensitivity and care. We’re here to provide clear legal advice on all matters relating to divorce, separation or dissolution. We’ll help you move on and start to be you again.

Get in touch with our family team family@slaterheelis.co.uk 0161 672 1247 slaterheelis.co.uk @SlaterHeelisLaw

/slaterheelis

exceeding expectations

Greater Manchester

Published by Moonscape Media Ltd Tel: 0118 972 4980 Email: office@primarytimesmag.com Editor: Michelle Dilger Production: Tristan Kayes Advertising: Kerry Beardsmore Niki Whitwell Suzanne Mason Listings Editor: Suzanne Watson Features Editor: Helen Chitham Primary Times is independently published and distributed free through primary schools in Greater Manchester. It aims to inform families and children about current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses, attractions and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding to its contents or by joining in the competitions. It is NOT our intention to publish any racist, sexist or politically based material whatsoever. We also undertake not to carry any advertising which we would consider to be offensive to young families or harmful to the best interests of young children. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in Greater Manchester for their assistance in distributing the magazine and for their contributions to its contents. We would also like to thank all the advertisers who have supported this publication and therefore made it possible. Please support their endeavours when and where you can. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with Primary Times or with the relevant contributor. Primary Times is currently publishing over 2 million copies per issue under franchise licences throughout the UK. Primary Times Greater Manchester is operated under franchise licence.

What’s Inside

Hello readers!

Summer is over and it’s time for another new school year to begin! While the holidays may have been a little different this year, we hope you’ve still managed to enjoy some fun, relaxing times over the break, and are ready to get the most out of this new term.

A warm welcome back to our regular readers and a big ‘hello’ if you are starting school for the first time. For those new to us, our magazine is a practical “what’s on and where to go” guide, featuring child friendly events, local news and great competitions. As well as this Back-to-School edition, your child will bring home a Primary Times issue just before each holiday – packed with ideas of fun things to do with a young family during the school breaks.

In the meantime, while the days are cooling and casseroles are back on the menu, there are still good times to be had this season! You’ll find lots of inspiration throughout this issue to help keep the family entertained at weekends, including action-packed festivals and lively events, plus we’ve included the latest news snippets from our local schools.

You can also visit our website for special offers and extra competitions www.primarytimes.net/manchester and follow us on Facebook and Twitter for daily updates.

Until next time, we wish you all a very happy and successful first term.

N issu ext Octoe out b 11th er

4 Pinboard 6

Autumn events

10 School Watch 12 WOW What’s on When 14 Cooking with Annabel Karmel 15 Theatre

For Advertisers

We are the largest free magazine in Greater Manchester reaching over 100,000 family readers, in this issue. If you’d like to advertise directly to this audience please call 0118 972 4980

STOCKPORT GRAMMAR SCHOOL An independent school for ages 3-18 years

Assistance with fees available at 11+ and 16+ (means tested), academic and music scholarships FOUNDED IN 1487

Book online for Open Events

Senior School Open Mornings Saturday 18th September Saturday 13th November Junior School Open Morning Saturday 18th September Sixth Form Open Evening Tuesday 12th October Senior and Junior School day tours available

Extensive school bus routes including Sale, Altrincham and Hale

SGS Inspires Tel: 0161 456 9000

Highest Inspection Rating of “Excellent”

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Pinboard

Pinboard

Notices and News updates for parents and teachers

Achieve 11+ Success with KSOL If you are considering a Grammar or Independent school for your child’s secondary education, they will need to sit an 11+ entrance exam. With over 16 years of experience, KSOL understand what it takes to succeed!

KSOL offer a unique combination of awardwinning personalised online courses, plus direct support from a team of qualified teachers. Their expert TargetTeach® technology will pinpoint gaps in your child’s knowledge to ensure that their course is tailored to suit their individual needs. Your child’s 11+ journey starts here! SAVE up to £50 with our fantastic Back to School offers on Year 4 & 5 online tuition.

Call 0161 327 2003 or visit www.ksol.co.uk to speak to one of their friendly educational advisers today!

Challenging people to change their lives Challenge 4 Change delivers intense personal development and educational experiences that challenge young people’s attitudes, beliefs and behaviour and help them reflect about how these aspects currently impact their life. The programmes support young people to replace their negative beliefs and habits with more productive and positive ones. Sessions are facilitated by coaches who have overcome significant challenges in their life, ensuring all team members are positive role models and proof that people can overcome difficult times and personal challenges to lead happy and successful lives.

Challenge 4 Change works with schools and offers three key delivery approaches.

These include Engagement sessions, designed to meet the requirements of the school and can be one-off events or a full programme of activities; Intervention, which involves working with young people who are excluded, NEET or demonstrating risk taking behaviour; and Challenge Day events that help young people identify their achievements and plan for their future. W: www.challenge4change.org

Demystifying Child Maintenance and Back to School Expenses Generally speaking, the child maintenance system works separately to the courts system. Unless agreed, child maintenance is normally calculated according to a formula that takes a percentage of the paying parent’s gross salary. Deductions are then made on the basis of the number of overnights the paying parent has with the relevant child.

There is a very useful online tool for calculating how much child maintenance should be paid, here: www.gov.uk/calculate-child-maintenance If you think the amount of child maintenance being paid is wrong, then specialist advice could help resolve the situation. Contact Slater Heelis solicitors at slaterheelis.co.uk

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Stretch their imaginations and creativity with Stagecoach this Autumn At Stagecoach they provide quality parttime performing arts training for children and teenagers aged 4-18 years. Their aim is to nurture and develop young potential through singing, acting and dance classes, stretching young imaginations and building confidence. They have an excellent team of highly qualified staff and pride themselves on providing exciting, inspiring and quality work. Enrol now for the September term.

Search their website Stagecoach.co.uk to find the Stagecoach nearest to you with detailed information on the team and term dates.

You can also contact the principals directly – Altrincham Principal Marion 07904 451199 Salford Principal Laura 01706 601072.

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Your child’s 11+ journey starts here...

Transition Days

Award-Winning 11+ Specialists

Want to try different for the new intake?

Want tosomething try something Need to build motivation and team-working?

Recently inducted new intake? different for athe new intake?

Enrol and SAVE Back to School

OFFERS!

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Want to impress your new intake by giving Wethem will useaanew mixture of “Incredibly valuable experience?

“Incredibly valuable experience, the students participation in fun, engaging We will maximise the benefits to you by discussing experience, the students dig deep and realise they your specific requirements and proposing a tailored activities and facilitation to dig deep and realise they package to achieve them in the best possiblepossess way. the skills, knowledge possess the skills, knowledge maximise motivation and We will use a mixture of participation in fun, engaging and know how and know themselves” how themselves” activities and facilitation to maximise motivation and lasting impact.

Chapel-on-the-Frith

Personalised 11+ Online Tuition tailored to suit your child’s individual needs

Chapel-on-the-Frith High School High School

lasting impact.

New Newintake: intake: • Team building • Team building • Team bonding • Team bonding • Motivation • Reward • Motivation • Assessment • Reward • Resilience • Assessment The proceeds from every education booking helps to provide subsidised confidence building and • self-esteem Resilience sessions for disadvantaged people in the North West. Quotes are prepared to meet your

SAVE up to £50!

specific requirements and our pricing is driven by the need to sustain the charity and not by profit.

“You all 4 give Challenge Change, which Park rubs Road, 373100% Trafford off on to the children Manchester which makesM17 for a 1AN

T: great 0161day” 359Ashton 3399 on Mersey School

What to do next To achieve your business needs Call 0161 359 3399 or e-mail info@challenge 4change.org

E: info@challenge4change.org W: www.challenge4change.org Challenge 4 Change, 373 Trafford Park Road, Manchester M17 1AN @c4cteambuilding T: 0161 359 3399 E: info@challenge4change.org W: www.challenge4change.org @c4cteambuilding L Challenge 4 Change Indoor Urban Activity Centre Challenge 4 C Change Indoor Urban Activity Centre

Challenge 4 Change is a registered charity that has provided team and personal development training since 2008. We improve people’s problem-solving, communication and team working skills, as well as increasing their self-esteem, confidence and motivation. All our activities are designed to be fully inclusive and to help individuals gain confidence and enable them to develop.

Registered Charity Number: 1126141

Registered Charity Number: 1126141

Challenge 4 Change is a registered charity that has provided team and personal development training since 2008. We improve people’s problem-solving, communication and team working skills, as well as increasing their self-esteem, confidence and motivation. All our activities are designed to be fully inclusive and to help individuals gain confidence and enable them to develop.

Call us today!

0161 327 2003 Trusted and recommended by parents for over 16 years Discover Trafford 11+ online mock exams and courses at:

www.ksol.co.uk

Chetham’s

600 Year Anniversary 1421 - 2021

Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 September 2021 Where the medieval meets the modern Live Music Food and Drink Medieval Fun Live shows from:

Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 – 18 year-olds

Stagecoach Altrincham

www.stagecoach.co.uk/altrincham 07904 451199 Bowden Preparatory WA14 2LT

Stagecoach Salford

www.stagecoach.co.uk/salford 01706 601072 Bridgewater School M28 2WQ

Tickets from stollerhall.com

Stagecoach Performing Arts is the trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited.

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Autumn Watch

Autumn Watch

While the days are getting shorter, the fun doesn’t need to stop! There are still lots of great activities going on in the area, so make the most of precious family time and plan some great, memorable days out!

Join Humphrey’s Lantern Walk this November Join Humphrey’s Lantern Walk in the beautiful surroundings of Heaton Park, Manchester on Saturday 13th November, and help raise funds for the young patients at Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital. This sponsored walk is family-friendly, with accessible 2k and 4k distances to choose from. Or perhaps you’d rather take on your own individual Lantern Walk from home or from a location that’s personal to you? All children taking part will receive a special goody bag and twinkling paper lantern as part of their £5 entry fee. To register or find out more, get in touch.

T: 0161 276 4522 W: rmchcharity.org.uk/lantern

Medieval Manchester Festival: a unique and family-friendly event this September Get ready for a unique and family-friendly festival at Chetham’s in Manchester – featuring live music, food, drink and medieval entertainment – which will celebrate the 600th anniversary of Manchester’s oldest buildings. Chetham’s medieval buildings date back to 1421. It’s where the history of Manchester begins and this two-day festival on Saturday 25th – Sunday 26th September celebrates the city’s history, and the incredible story of Chetham’s. Soak up the festival in the historic courtyard, explore the remarkable buildings and collections of Chetham’s Library, enjoy live music from young Chetham’s School of Music performers, or laugh and enjoy Horrible Histories shows in The Stoller Hall. Tickets cost £3, or £10 for families of up to five people, and can be pre-booked via the website. W: www.chethamsschoolofmusic.com/ whats-on/medieval-manchester-festival

Van Gogh Alive at MediaCityUK This autumn, MediaCityUK will host Van Gogh Alive, ‘the world’s most visited immersive, multi-sensory experience’ that exhibits the life and work of the seminal Dutch artist.

Following a smash-hit run in London’s Kensington Gardens, the must-see cultural event comes to the north where visitors of all ages will be treated to a truly world-class cultural experience. Having welcomed over eight million visitors in 70 cities around the world, the immersive Van Gogh experience created by Grande Experiences, promises to be one of the highlights of this autumn’s event calendar when it opens its doors from 22nd October 2021 to 23rd January 2022.

Visit vangoghaliveuk.com for more information.

Halloween Ghost Trains at the East Lancashire Railway Dare you take a ride on the East Lancashire Railway’s Halloween Ghost Trains? This family friendly fright fest takes place on the 28th, 29th & 31st October and is jam-packed with ghosts, ghouls, monsters and spooky surprises. Help their horrible heroes, including Count Brian the Vampire, Veronica the Witch and Bob (he’s a zombie) break the terrible curse and save the day. There will be spine chilling songs, magic spells and tricks galore! Don’t miss your chance to enjoy the ride of your life – book now! W: www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

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Autumn Watch

WEEKDAY DAY PARTY

BIRTHDAY MADNESS

WEEKEND DAY PARTY

Monday / Tuesday Wednesday / Thursday

TERM TIME ONLY

Friday / Saturday / Sunday

Monday / Tuesday Wednesday / Thursday

For 15 Children = £140 £9.50 per head for any additional kids

For 15 Children = £120 £8.50 per head for any additional kids 1½ hour party depending on availability

INCLUDES: Party host, crowning ceremony Party food – pizza, sandwiches, crisps, fruit & veg platters, unlimited juice, ice lollies

For 15 Children = £100 £10 per head for any additional kids (maximum of 20 children only) 1½ hour party depending on avaliability

INCLUDES: Party host, crowning ceremony

INCLUDES: Party host, crowning ceremony Party food – pizza, chips and unlimited juice

1½ hour party depending on availability

Party food – pizza, sandwiches, crisps, fruit & veg platters, unlimited juice, ice lollies FREE Party invites

FREE Party invites

FREE Party invites

£50 non refundable deposit Weekday Exclusive Party for 30 children 9am – 11am £350 5pm – 7pm £300 £10 per head for any additional kids

EXTRAS

Facepainting • Characters Superheroes • Princesses many more also available

3 COURSE MEAL ALSO AVAILABLE FOR ADULTS

Weekend Exclusive Party for 30 children 9am – 11am £400 5pm – 7pm £350 £12 per head for any additional kids

Mentor house – Corner of Chestergate and king Street West – Stockport SK3 0DY OPPOSITE / BEHIND STOCKPORT BUS STATION

0161 477 2225 | WWW.KIDSAURUS.CO.UK

PLAY, EXPLORE, EXPERIMENT

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Autumn Watch

Inspire Imaginations Virtual Classrooms for Schools

Discover our range of virtual workshops from marvellous mummification to understanding transatlantic slavery.

Book online at liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/schools #museumeducation

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Autumn Watch

Kidsaurus is the perfect all-weather play centre for children Are you looking for a popular venue in Stockport for your child’s birthday party? Would you like to take your children to an indoor play centre designed for adults too? Then head to Kidsaurus, where you can spend time with friends and family, while enjoying a delicious selection of food including samosas and loaded fries, plus delicious cakes and coffee. Children are happiest when they’re burning off energy and having fun on the exciting play frame, fast spin disk and the big blue slide!

The quiet, soft play area keeps 6 months to 3 years old active and entertained too. And they certainly know how to host a party that your child will love – leave it to them and parents can then enjoy the fun too. Save money with a discounted monthly pass and visit as often as you like. W: www.kidsaurus.co.uk

Discover world changing ideas at the Science and Industry Museum Play and explore in Experiment, the family friendly interactive gallery, and unravel science secrets at Science Stops around the museum. Find out how cotton transformed the city of Manchester and uncover some incredible stories behind their historic site. Follow your curiosity and learn more about big ideas that are changing our world today at one of their Get Curious events and don’t miss Cancer Revolution: Science, innovation and hope, a major new free exhibition opening this October. Plan your visit and book your free museum admission tickets online.

W: www.scienceandindustrymuseum.org.uk/visit

Luminate – a magical enchanting light trail is coming to Walton Hall and Gardens A new, spectacular after-dark light trail will be coming to Cheshire this year, hosted at the much-loved Walton Hall and Gardens in Warrington, from the 24th Nov-24th Dec (inclusive) from 4.30pm each night. Once on the illuminated trail, visitors can enjoy 3D projections, light tunnels, a wishing tree, interactive light elements, a laser light maze and much more. The captivating light trail will weave a 1.2km long route around the grounds at the beautiful Walton Gardens.

Book tickets online. W: www.luminate.live

Foodies rejoice – the Great British Food Festival is back!

After missing 2020, the popular and fabulous food festival returns to Arley Hall & Gardens on the 25th & 26th September, from 10am-5pm. You can expect over 100 traders, great chef demos, a BBQ stage, Man V Food challenges, lots of superb entertainment for the kids and great live music. A fantastic foodie fun day out for the whole family to relish!

Tickets are limited so book in advance online.

W: www.greatbritishfoodfestival.com

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School Watch

School Watch

Hulme Hall receives highest star rating from a happy parent Fundraising to Build a School for Street Kids Bolton School’s Junior Girls are aiming to raise £50,000 and build a school for street children in Malawi. The project stems from their teacher Mrs Marsden’s visits to work with Malawian street children. In a single term, the girls raised 10% of their goal through sponsored challenges. The whole school walked, ran, swam, cycled, sailed, and in a matter of weeks collectively travelled 12,000 kilometres: the distance between Bolton School and the planned site of the school in Malawi. Year 6 pupils also pooled their efforts on the climbing wall to scale over 3002m, the height of Malawi’s highest mountain, Mulanje Massif.

Hulme Hall Grammar School, based in Stockport, is looking forward to the new academic year which will hopefully bring a more settled year for pupils. What better way to showcase our school than a current parent’s perspective?

“Hulme Hall is a life changing school. It enables the children to reach their potential in a safe, caring, and inspiring environment.

India has three cousins who attended Hulme Hall, all thrived and left with excellent qualifications and confidence to go on to university. If schools had a star rating for class size, reaching your potential academically and following an excellent moral code it would be 5 stars.” Current Parent.

W: www.hulmehallschool.org

Please donate generously on JustGiving: www.justgiving.com/ crowdfunding/smilestomalawi?utm_term=gbk2ZEqba

Stockport Grammar Sixth Formers impress in Industrial Cadets Scheme Six Lower Sixth students from Stockport Grammar School utilised their problem solving and engineering skills as they took part in this year’s Industrial Cadets Gold Project.

Boys do Better at Burnage Are you looking for an inclusive school community for your son that combines academic success with an emphasis on personal and social development? Burnage Academy for Boys offers an enriching curriculum that secures GCSE grades, on average, a full grade higher than boys achieve elsewhere, placing it in the top 3% of schools in the North West of England for performance. Rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted, staff are keen to help boys be the best they can be. They would love to meet you at their Open Event on Thursday 30th September, or visit them online. W: www.burnage.manchester.sch.uk

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The team tackled a challenge set by Network Rail: “Light and power supply monitoring in low voltage distribution cubicles”.

The team homed in on a Raspberry Pi controlled system using a PIR detector to firstly supply automatic lighting when the cubicle was opened and then a rechargeable power supply was programmed to detect interruption to the power supply and send an SMS message to a monitoring station.

The Industry Assessor praised the group’s “enthusiasm”, “project management skills” and “well-rehearsed presentation” with the team’s collective effort and strong leadership also winning rave reviews. For more information on Stockport Grammar visit www.stockportgrammar.co.uk

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School Watch

Realising Potential With consistently high examination results, outstanding inspection reports, excellent extra-curricular opportunities and incredible facilities, our friendly independent day school (0-7 co-ed, 7-18 single sex) will enable your child to realise their potential.

WHOLE SCHOOL OPEN MORNING

Bolton School

Saturday 9 October, 9.30am-1.00pm

Call 01204 840201 for further details or to arrange a private tour during term-time.

www.boltonschool.org Depending on Covid restrictions we may also run a virtual event on Friday 8 October, please consult our website for further details

Hulme Hall Grammar School

⬧Caring ⬧Nurturing ⬧Achieving

An independent school for boys and girls in Stockport

“Hulme Hall is a life changing to reach their potential in a

Click here now for all

environment” Current Parent

Open Event details and dates. Book your place now.

Beech Avenue, Stockport, SK3 8HA Email: admissions@hulmehallschool.org

Tel: 0161 485 3524

30 hours funded

childcare

childcare

available

available

A day nursery for children aged 2-4

school. It enables the children safe, caring and inspiring

30 hours funded

Where children explore in our indoor and outdoor learning environments, create awe and wonder and grow into curious, happy learners.

Beech Avenue, Stockport, SK3 8HA Email: preschool@hulmehallschool.org

www.hulmehallschool.org

Tel: 0161 485 3524

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National Trust

Fun at The Trafford Centre!

what’s on when

National Trust gardens, parks and countryside locations are open for you to visit. Advance booking is recommended as tickets are timed.

W: www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Ongoing

Break free at Chill Factore

From Trafford Treetop Adventures, SEA LIFE, an Upside-Down House and Odeon cinema, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained and lots of family-friendly restaurants such as Archie’s and Wagamama’s.

W: traffordcentre.co.uk

LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre Manchester The ultimate indoor LEGO® playground, designed specifically for children aged 3-10 years to enjoy – everything is child sized! There’s a 4D Cinema, Kingdom Quest Laser ride, Merlin’s Apprentice ride and lots of LEGO! W: legolanddiscoverycentre.com/ Manchester

SEA LIFE Manchester Enter an amazing underwater world over 2,000 creatures including sharks, seahorses, sea turtles and rays.

Journey through the ocean tunnel as sharks swim overhead and visit the lair of the Japanese Spider Crabs, measuring 3 meters claw to claw!

W: www.visitsealife.com/manchester

Printworks Printworks is the number one destination for families in Greater Manchester looking for a fun-filled day out. With public transport links right to its doorstep, you’ll get a day packed with leisure including a cinema, with tickets starting from just £2.99, escape rooms, mini golf courses and a bowling alley complete with arcade games. Finish off the day by ordering from the kid’s menu at the family-friendly restaurants including Hard Rock Cafe, Frankie and Benny’s, Chiquito, Wagamama and Nando’s.

W: printworks-manchester.com

Manchester’s Rolls Royce Get up close to a very early RollsRoyce motor car, made in Manchester and driven by Henry Royce himself, get hands on and see science brought to life in the free interactive gallery.

Designed for the whole family to enjoy together. Runs daily. Science and Industry Museum, Manchester.

W: www.scienceandindustrymuseum.org. uk/whats-on/manchesters-rolls-royce

For an action-packed day out, take your family to Chill Factore, a real snow centre located in Manchester.

Experience the adventure of Snow Park, with donut slides and sledging, learn to ski or snowboard.

Suitable for all ages.

W: visit www.chillfactore.com

ValoJump Trampolines!

Tiny & Small Clanger at Gulliver’s

Treetop Adventure and Adventure Plus at Go Ape

National Football Museum

Designed with the younger family in mind, watch the confidence of your little monkeys’ reach new heights as they spend an hour conquering wobbly bridges and awesome zip wires. Go Ape at Delamere.

W: www.forestryengland.uk

Unravel science secrets with the expert Explainers at Science Stops around the museum. Break the emoji code, play games to test your communication skills, and find out how punch cards create programmes that weave the textiles industry into the history of computing. Running throughout half term. Science and Industry Museum.

W: www.scienceandindustrymuseum.org.uk

Trafford Golf Centre

Raise your mug for Macmillan Cancer Support’s annual fundraiser Macmillan’s Coffee Morning is an annual event dedicated to bringing people together over a cuppa to raise vital funds for people living with cancer.

This year the official event date is Friday 24th September but a Coffee Morning can be held at any time. Whatever your reason to host, no reason is too big or too small, and will help us directly support people living with cancer.

Every penny raised at a Coffee Morning helps Macmillan to provide support for people with cancer, who need it now more than ever.

Sign up at macmillan.org.uk/coffee or by searching Macmillan Coffee Morning and the Macmillan Team will send you a fundraising kit with top tips to get you started.

12 BACK TO SCHOOL ISSUE 2021

Manchester City Council has teamed up with communities and activity leaders across the area to bring all school holiday activities and events on one website.

Visit Loadstodo.co.uk/schoolhols

Brand new to Play Factore - ValoJump trampolines! ValoJump is an interactive trampoline gaming platform where children aged 5-16 can bounce on one of four high performance trampolines, and get a real workout playing games where you’re the player on the screen!

Book now at playfactore.com

Science Stops

Macmillan’s Coffee Morning 2021

There’s Loads to Do this summer!

Boasting 53 driving bays, with amazing Toptracer technology and Power Tee Automatic Ball machines, Trafford Golf Centre offers hours of tee-rific fun. Europe’s most popular driving range has an onsite café and bar, with equipment and free parking provided. Open seven days a week, from 7am – 10:30pm.

W: traffordgolfcentre.co.uk

Dino Falls Adventure Golf The perfect spot for families, mates and dates, Dino Falls Adventure Golf offers two courses and 36 holes of dinosaur-themed fun. Open seven days a week, from 7am – 10.30pm, family ticket £24. Book in advance to secure your time slot. W: www.dinofalls.co.uk 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!

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Tiny and Small will be making special appearances each day at Gulliver’s World, Warrington.

Pre-book your theme park tickets W: www.gulliversworldresort

The National Football Museum is the perfect day out for footie-mad families. Step up to interactive challenges and games designed to sharpen your football skills. Find out more about the beginnings of football, relive FA Cup fairy tales, see footballing crown jewels from the 1966 World Cup Final ball to Diego Maradona’s incredible ‘Hand of God’ Argentina shirt.

W: www.nationalfootballmuseum.com

Demystifying Child Maintenance and Back to School Expenses Generally speaking, the child maintenance system works separately to the courts system. Unless agreed, child maintenance is normally calculated according to a formula that takes a percentage of the paying parent’s gross salary. Deductions are then made on the basis of the number of overnights the paying parent has with the relevant child. There is a very useful online tool for calculating how much child maintenance should be paid, at www.gov.uk/calculatechild-maintenance. If you think the amount of child maintenance being paid is wrong, then specialist advice could help resolve the situation.

Contact Slater Heelis solicitors at slaterheelis.co.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

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/whats-on/experiment

Get Curious Follow your curiosity and learn more about the big ideas and innovations that are changing our world today through fun demonstrations and interactive activities. The next events will take place during October half term and more dates will be announced soon. Science and Industry Museum, Manchester W: www.scienceandindustrymuseum. org.uk/whats-on/get-curious

Science Stops Unravel science secrets with the expert Explainers at the Science Stops. Look out for them as you explore the museum. Science and Industry Museum, Manchester W: www.scienceandindustrymuseum. org.uk/whats-on/science-stops

Textiles Gallery Find out how cotton transformed our city. Adventure through life in industrial Manchester and find out how ‘Cottonopolis’ changed the world we all live in today. Pick up a free activity trail and guide yourself through the gallery with fun games and challenges. Science and Industry Museum, Manchester W: www.scienceandindustrymuseum. org.uk/whats-on/textiles-gallery

September Saturday 11th

National Football Museum Hall of Fame: The Exhibition Celebrating the legends who have contributed to the game of our lives in our first ever dedicated Hall of Fame exhibition. Runs until 27th November.

W: www.nationalfootballmuseum.com

British GT and F3 British GT and F3 championships at Oulton Park.

W: www.oultonpark.co.uk

Sunday 12th

Gorton Parade

Parade, carnival and car show.

A perfect opportunity for the whole community to come together and celebrate everything that is great about Gorton. 11am-4pm.

W: www.visitmanchester.com

Wednesday 15th

Counter-Flow

An exhibition into the movement of cultures from one place to another.

Runs until 10th October. The People’s History Museum, Manchester.

W: phm.org.uk

Saturday 18th

Thundersport GB Club Bike Racing Thundersport GB Club Bike Championships at Oulton Park.

W: www.oultonpark.co.uk

Sunday 19th

Saddleworth Show 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!

A fabulous fun filled day. Well-I-Hole Farm, Greenfield, Oldham. 10am to 5pm. W: www.visitmanchester.com

Wednesday 22nd

Migration: A Human Story An exhibition at The People’s History Museum, Manchester. Runs until 24th April 2022. W: phm.org.uk

Saturday 25th

Medieval Manchester Festival A unique family-friendly festival celebrating the 600th anniversary of Manchester’s oldest buildings. Also on 26th September. Chetham’s School of Music, Long Millgate, Manchester, M3 1SB. W: www.visitmanchester.com

Dogfest DogFest is the UK’s Ultimate Summer Festival for Dogs.

Also on 26th September. Tatton Park, Knutsford, WA16 6QN. W:www.visitmanchester.com

Sunday 26th

The Main A-traction Soak in the old school charm of beautifully restored traction engines, tractors and Scammell lorries on selected dates throughout the year.

Also on October 3rd, 10th,17th and 24th. Bury Transport Museum.

W: www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk/ events-activities/traction-days-atbury-transport-museum

Thursday 30th

Open Event at Burnage Academy for Boys Are you looking for an inclusive school community for your son that combines academic success with an emphasis on personal and social development?

Burnage Academy for Boys offers an enriching curriculum that secures GCSE grades, on average, a full grade higher than boys achieve elsewhere, placing it in top 3% of schools in the North West of England for performance. Rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted, staff are keen to help boys be the best they can be.

W: www.burnage.manchester.sch.uk

October Saturday 2nd

Pretty Muddy Kids A brilliant muddy obstacle course just for the little ones. Tatton Park, Knutsford, WA16 6QN. W: www.tattonpark.org.uk/events

Sunday 3rd

Kid’s Car Boot Sale Only children’s products can be sold, swapped or bought at this event. It’s a great place to buy some amazing bargains or clear the house of clutter, while making money too. Half way through the event there will be a fun Swap Shop session, where children gather round and swap something old for something new. Kids Car Boot supports Barnardo’s with your donations. The Kingsway School, Cheadle, Stockport. £15 for stalls, £2 per customer. 10am-12noon.

W: www.stockport.gov.uk/events

Friday 22nd

Cancer Revolution: Science, Innovation And Hope This October, explore the revolution in science that is transforming cancer care with a major new free exhibition, Cancer Revolution: Science, innovation and hope.

Runs until March 2022. Recommended for ages 8 and older. Science and Industry Museum, Manchester W: www.scienceandindustrymuseum. org.uk/whats-on/cancer-revolution

Saturday 23rd

Fright Fiesta

Join the festival-style Halloween that’s bursting with colour, costumes and music. Fright Fiesta is nine days of fabulous family activities, frights and theme park fun. Running until 31s October.

Gullivers World Resort, Warrington.

W: www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk/ fright-fiesta

Register for just £5 per child Saturday 13th November Join us in the beautiful surroundings of Heaton Park, Manchester in support of Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital.

To sign up or find out more, please visit rmchcharity.org.uk/lantern or call 0161 276 4522

Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/manchester for thousands more great days out

BACK TO SCHOOL ISSUE 2021 13

Confidence in cooking with ...

Annabel Karmel

Primary Times chats with Annabel Karmel about the importance of encouraging children to cook Annabel Karmel has had a remarkable career in cookery. As an author of over 47 cookbooks, Annabel also has a range of food products for toddlers and babies and a popular baby and toddler recipe app. Her commitment to children’s health and nutrition is well recognised as she was awarded an MBE in 2006 and a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Mother and Baby Awards. Her newest children’s cookbook ‘Fun Fast & Easy’ is out on the 2nd September.

Why do you think it’s important to encourage children to cook?

It’s quite funny that these days’ children can’t make a piece of toast or an omele‫מּ‬e or a scrambled egg.

I think we all need to be aware that if we as parents don’t teach our children to cook then they won’t really learn anywhere. They may do a li‫מּ‬le cooking at school but not a lot, it’s really more up to the parents.

Children are also curious. They could use a sharp knife or turn the ke‫מּ‬le off and touch it because they think it’s cooled down already. We need

to teach them the dangers of the kitchen. It’s much be‫מּ‬er you teach them through cooking than one day they experiment for themselves.

How can busy parents find time to cook with their children?

I think some parents feel like they don’t have the time to cook with their children but cookery is such an important skill to learn. It’s also such a fun activity to do together as a family, so I would encourage parents to make the time for it.

Children learn a lot from it and you’re all ge‫מּ‬ing something yummy to eat at the end of it! But it doesn’t have to be an everyday effort, when my children were young we had one night a week to cook dinner together and I supervised them as they made supper.

What are your top tips for ge‫מּ‬ing children in the kitchen?

Try finding a recipe that doesn’t take too long from start to finish, and that is well within their skill range so that they can fully be involved. You don’t want to be taking over and doing

it for them if the recipe becomes complex. Things that include rolling, cu‫מּ‬ing out or mashing can be really fun. From se‫מּ‬ing the timer to weighing out the ingredients, they can be involved from the very beginning. Remember to let them get on with it however they please.

It doesn’t ma‫מּ‬er what it looks like, it doesn’t have to look as pre‫מּ‬y as the picture. Just keep it fun and let them experiment with the foods.

Show them the dangers and then let them go for it! Aﬞer a few weeks of experimenting with foods, they’ll really enjoy it and will become quite good cooks.

Do you think the visual aspect of food is important?

It’s very important! Children make up their minds about if they want to eat something or not very quickly.

You won’t get any food into their mouths unless they like the look of the food so it definitely has to be visual.

But it doesn’t have to be complicated. My Owl Porridge for example isn’t difficult to make but it looks so fun for children to eat.

What inspired you to write Fun, Fast & Easy?

I believe that cooking is such an important skill to learn. My children all learnt to cook while at home from four years old and they loved it! They really enjoyed doing grown up stuff and they were very proud when they made something that we all ate together. I really want to show that children are perfectly capable of cooking even when they are very young. Most of my recipes are perfectly capable for a five year old to make. There are lots of things they can do like stirring or mashing and they’ll usually love being a part of the process. When children are cooking they are also learning about time and measurements at the same time so it’s also really educational.

14 BACK TO SCHOOL ISSUE 2021

Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/manchester for thousands more great days out

Theatre Watch

Theatre Watch The Lowry

Saturday 16th October

Saturday 11th – Sunday 12th September

Since 2005, the Comedy Club 4 Kids has been getting the best stand-ups and sketch acts from the international circuit to do their thing for an audience of children and their families.

Salford Quays thelowry.com/visit-us/ how-to-get-here

ROUNDABOUT IN VICTORIA PARK – REALLY BIG AND REALLY LOUD A show for all the family from award-winning playwright Phoebe Eclair-Powell. The performance takes place at Roundabout in Victoria Park.

Saturday 16th – Sunday 17th October

WHAT THE LADYBIRD HEARD Join the clever Ladybird as she leads the animals on their quest to save the day in this joyous stage adaptation of What the Ladybird Heard, the bestselling picture book by Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks.

Home Manchester 2 Tony Wilson Place Manchester M15 4FN

Thursday 14th October

THE CHILDREN’S BOOK SHOW Children’s author Jo Empson will be running a creative workshop for kids at HOME, as part of The Children’s Bookshow 2021.

Manchester Palace Theatre

Oxford Street, Manchester Tuesday 19th – Sunday 24th October

BEDKNOBS AND BROOMSTICKS Enter a world of magic and fantasy as Disney’s classic movie Bedknobs and Broomsticks makes its world premiere as an exciting new musical.

Parr Hall

Warrington 01925 442345 parrhall.culturewarrington.org Sunday 26th September

FIREMAN SAM LIVE When all of his friends go away, Norman Price decides to find adventure in Pontypandy and become the star of a visiting circus. But with a tiger on the loose and faulty lights, the adventure soon turns to danger.

Can Fireman Sam come to the rescue and save the circus?

COMEDY CLUB 4 KIDS

The Plaza Stockport Box Office: 0161 477 7779 stockportplaza.co.uk Saturday 11th September

HERITAGE OPEN DAY Stockport’s 1932 Super Cinema and Variety Theatre throw open their doors at 11am as part of the National Heritage Open Days for a full day of free to attend events.

Sunday 12th September

MARY POPPINS Mary Poppins, her best friend Bert the chimney sweep, his friends along with Percy & Pippa the Penguins will entertain all the family with a magical performance of all their songs.

Sunday 17th October

BUILD CREATE & PLAY

BOOK NOW

www.legolanddiscoverycentre.com/manchester/

BEDKNOBS AND BROOMSTICKS A PG film. During WWII in England, Charlie, Carrie, and Paul Rawlins are sent to live with Eglantine Price, who it turns out is an apprentice witch.

Waterside Arts Centre

Sale, Trafford watersidearts.org Saturday 11th September

COMEDYSPORTZ An improvised competitive comedy show for ages 7+.

Sunday 10th October

ENSONGLOPEDIA OF ANIMALS Twenty-six animal songs, one for each letter of the alphabet. Get to grips with fascinating facts about extraordinary echinoderms, distressed damselflies, crazy corals, batty birds and amazing arachnids. Expect the unexpected.

And expect it to rhyme.

Sunday 17th October

MORGAN AND WEST’S FANTASTIC FAMILY MAGIC SPECTACULAR Time-travelling magicians Morgan & West are back with a show full of fabulous family friendly fun, frantic frolics and fantastic facial furniture!

Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/manchester for thousands more great days out

BACK TO SCHOOL ISSUE 2021 15

BOYS DO BETTER AT BURNAGE ACADEMY FOR BOYS IN THE

TOP 3%

OF NON SELECTIVE SCHOOLS IN THE NORTH WEST FOR THE PERFORMANCE OF BOYS

BE OUTSTANDING If you choose Burnage Academy for Boys for your son, he will join an Ofsted Outstanding school with an inclusive, caring and successful community that outperforms all of the other twenty-five schools you could send your son to in Manchester.

Your son will benefit from our enriching academic curriculum which focuses on both academic progress and personal development. We are proud to be in the top 3% of schools in the North West of England for performance, with students on average achieving a grade higher in their subjects than boys in other schools. However, we value the importance of an enriching school

experience, and our values of independence, resilience and care underpin all of the work that we do.

We support pupils in developing into active and responsible members of the community.

We are keen to show you this in person, and are happy to arrange individual appointments with a member of our Senior Leadership Team. We will also be hosting an open event on Thursday 30 September, 4pm–7pm. Finally, visit our website and YouTube page to watch videos of our caring staff and students, and follow our social media channels to keep in touch with what we do.

Contact the main school reception for further information: office@burnage.manchester.sch.uk or 0161 4321527