Primary Times Greater Manchester - Back to School 2024
Hello Readers,
Hello again to our regular readers and a warm welcome to those of you starting school for the first time. We hope you’ve had a lovely summer break with your families and are looking forward to a brand-new school year ahead full of excitement and discoveries!
You’ll receive our magazine regularly throughout the school year - we are a “what’s on and where to go” guide, highlighting child-friendly events and activities, local news and school updates, and great competitions. Our issues will be popped into your child’s book bag just before each holiday, packed full of fun, family-friendly destinations to help inspire you to get entertainment booked and sorted for the school breaks! Our pages will always feature attractions that include indoor and outdoor things-to-do, so whether it’s burning off energy or stimulating curious young minds, you’ll always find something to keep everyone happy that the weather can’t spoil!
Finally, it’s worth visiting our website www.primarytimes.co.uk/manchester to take advantage of extra competitions and special offers.
In the meantime, we wish you all a very happy and successful first term. See you soon!
04 LOCAL NEWS
The latest news from in and around Manchester
06 ENJOY AUTUMN
08 WOW
12 OUR SCHOOLS
14
15 KIDS ZONE BOX OFFICE
Local NEWS
Read on for the latest news from in and around Manchester, including information on vaccines, award-winning nurseries and local performing arts classes.
Help a dream come to life – become an egg donor
Many people from all ethnic backgrounds going through fertility treatment rely on egg donors to help achieve their dream of having a family. There is currently a shortage of egg donors – could you help one of the patients at The Hewitt Fertility Centre?
If you’re aged between 21-35, a non-smoker and would like to consider becoming an egg donor, go to The Hewitt Fertility Centre website or scan the QR code to find out more and to complete a donor enquiry form. If you would like to speak to a member of the team, you can also call 0151 702 4212 or email lwft.donorbank@nhs.net W: www.liverpoolwomens.nhs.uk/donor
Stagecoach offers Musical Theatre Exams to boost confidence and UCAS points!
Stagecoach Altrincham and Urmston provide quality part-time training in the arts for children aged 4-18 years. Their aim is to nurture and develop young potential through singing, acting and dancing classes in south Manchester. No experience necessary, they cater to each individual child’s needs, and you can trial the classes for two weeks before committing to a full term. They also accept tax free childcare, universal credit, and childcare voucher payments.
Students at Altrincham Stagecoach are busy preparing for their Musical Theatre Exams this term. Altrincham follow the LCM London College of Music Board of Exams and have been offering their students the opportunity to take the exams for the past 16 years with an excellent success rate. Principal Marion Hankin spoke about the exams, “Many of our students use the UCAS points from these exams for their University applications as they can increase their points considerably, and as teachers we really do see the benefit the students get from taking their exams. Boosting their confidence, performance skills and stage presence. I just love to see them perform.”
Discover so much more on our planet with Kids Planet
Kids Planet is a family-owned, award-winning group of 191 nurseries across the UK. At Kids Planet, they know how important it is for you to feel assured that your little one is going to be happy, safe, and secure. Their calm, neutral environments and well thought out resources are purposely placed to support and extend children’s learning; the convenient all-inclusive fees include nappies, wipes, formula and sun cream, helping to save money and time each day. Kids Planet Nurseries provide an environment full of opportunities that stimulate curiosity and challenge thinking. Discover so much more about the care and education provided by Kids Planet, find your local nursery and book a show round online. W: www.kidsplanetdaynurseries.co.uk
Shaun the Sheep encourages you to take part in Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day
This year Shaun the Sheep has taken on a new fleece of life in the hope of encouraging schools and youth groups up and down the country to sign up and take part in Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day on Thursday 12th December. As the charity’s new ‘Head of Wool’, Shaun has colla-baarated with Save the Children to make the world better with a sweater and wants children across the UK to join the flock. It’s simple:
1. Sign up for your free fundraising pack at www.christmasjumperday.org
2. Get your jumper out. You don’t have to buy a new one, upcycle an old jumper with tinsel and baubles. Or buy a Shaun the Sheep sew-on baa-dge or pin baa-dge from Save the Children’s online shop from 7th October to turn your jumper into a festive masterpiece, with 100% of profits donated to Save the Children.
3. Donate to Save the Children. By having fun and raising money, you’re creating lasting change for and with children in the UK and around the world. When you sign up to Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day, you’ll receive a free fundraising pack with lesson plans, festive activities and all the information you need to plan the merriest day ever. Shaun the Sheep’s creators Aardman have developed some exclusive schools’ resources with Twinkl which can be found now at www.christmasjumperday.org
SCAN ME
Enjoy AUTUMN
When the days grow shorter, and the weather isn’t as tempting as it was, it can get trickier to think of great family days out. Fear not! There are some fabulous things to do during the crisp, colourful autumn season.
The Hallé Family Concert: Marvellous Musical Myths and Legends
Explore wonderful stories of myths and legends through music, in a fun and interactive concert for all the family on Sunday 29th September, 3pm at The Bridgewater Hall. Join presenter and broadcaster Tom Redmond, conductor Euan Shields, and the Hallé for a fun-filled interactive family-friendly concert full of fantastic creatures and characters. Arrive any time from 1.30pm for free fun family activities in the foyer. The programme includes:
• John Williams Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone: Hedwig’s Theme
• John Powell How to Train Your Dragon
• Stravinsky The Firebird
• Alan Silvestri The Avengers: Main Theme Ticket Information (including fees) Family £49; Adults £23; Children (17 and under) £13
Also booking now: the Hallé’s Christmas Family Concert and The Snowman with live orchestra. Book all Hallé Family Concerts at www.halle.co.uk
Halloween fun with Room on the Broom at Z-arts
Jump on board the broom with the witch and her cat in Tall Stories’ funfilled adaptation of the best-selling picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. The witch and her cat pick up some hitch-hikers. But their broomstick is not meant for five and – CRACK – it snaps in two… just as the hungry dragon appears! Will there ever be room on the broom for everyone? Find out in the magical Olivier Award-nominated show for everyone aged three and up. Running from Tuesday 22nd to Thursday 24th October at Z-arts, Stretford Road, Hulme. W: www.z-arts.org
Gandeys Circus returns once again with a brand-new action-packed legendary Halloween Spooktacular Big Top Show for all the family at Trafford Centre from 11th October until 3rd November. From the thrill acts to the big production numbers that Gandeys are famous for, it’s all here and you will be on the edge of your seat with excitement, rolling in the aisles with laughter, and hiding under your coats from the spooky thrills. This event gets more popular every year so it’s advisable to book in advance to avoid disappointment! W: www.gandeyscircus.com
Experience the wonder of Chester Zoo
No two visits to Chester Zoo are ever the same. With 128 acres to explore and over 37,000 animals that call the zoo home, there’s always something new to discover. Every year two million people experience countless magical moments at the zoo, from animal encounters to making precious memories with family and friends. Each visit is a day out that makes a difference, enabling them to protect endangered wildlife in Chester and support vital conservation projects around the world. Book your tickets and experience the wonder of Chester Zoo. W: www.chesterzoo.org
Day Out with Thomas at East Lancashire Railway
Take a trip on Sodor’s number one tank engine and meet Sir Topham Hatt on this spectacular Day Out with Thomas on the East Lancashire Railway.
Running on Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th October, your adventure begins at Bury Station where you’ll meet Sir Topham and climb aboard a carriage so Thomas can take you on a trip up the line. Once you return, you will find lots more fun and games waiting for you across the road at Bury Transport Museum. Plus, plan ahead for their Halloween Ghost Trains at the end of autumn! There will be a haunted house walkthrough at Bury, interact with the fiends of the Monster Squad and enjoy a spooky steam train ride. W: www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
Some shows to book for later in the year…
Get ready to let your hair down for RAPUNZEL – A Tangled Tale!
Get ready for a hair-raising adventure as Polka Dot Pantomimes and The Albert Halls proudly present RAPUNZEL – A Tangled Tale! Back by popular demand Coronation Street Legend VICKY ENTWISTLE stars as Mother Gothel (she’s back – but this time she’s bad!) alongside the hilarious ROLLO as Loopy Louis and LUCY-ROSE ROLLASON as Fairy Rose. Joining them is IAN PARKIN as Dame Betty Bouffant, KIRA MacCARTER as Rapunzel and MARCQUELLE WARD as Flynn Ryder. There will be modern songs to sing along to, huge amounts of laughter, plenty of audience participation and incredible special effects including a spectacular flying jet pack! So let your hair down and book now for Bolton’s finest festive treat, RAPUNZEL – A Tangled Tale from 30th November until 31st December. Box Office: 0343 208 0500 W: www.quaytickets.com/boltonalberthalls
Freckle Productions present STICK MAN live on stage at The Lowry
Touching, funny and utterly original, Freckle Productions’ delightful adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s Stick Man is back at The Lowry this Christmas! What starts off as a morning jog becomes quite the misadventure for Stick Man: a dog wants to play fetch with him, a swan builds a nest with him, and he even ends up on a fire! How will Stick Man ever get back to the family tree? This award-winning production, from the team behind Zog and Zog and the Flying Doctors, features a trio of top actors and is packed full of puppetry, songs, live music and funky moves. W: www.thelowry.com
FUN THINGS TO DO LOCALLYWOW WHAT’S ON WHERE
THIS AUTUMN
Out of this World
Jodrell Bank
www.jodrellbank.net
Have you ever wanted to see Jupiter’s Great Red Spot up close? Wondered what it would be like to skip through the stars or weave across the Milky Way? With interactive exhibitions, immersive planetarium displays (including an exhilarating new show, The Great Solar System Adventure) and exciting experiments.
Family Days Out
Port Sunlight Village
www.portsunlightvillage.com
There’s plenty for families to do in Port Sunlight all year round, from history adventures at Port Sunlight Museum and the Edwardian Worker’s Cottage to playtime in the village’s beautiful green spaces.
Autumn at the Zoo
Chester Zoo
www.chesterzoo.org
No two visits to are ever the same. With 128 acres to explore and over 37,000 animals that call the zoo home, there’s always something new to discover.
Dog Gone Story Trail
Z-arts
www.z-arts.org
This self-led story trail is a perfect outdoor adventure for grown-ups, children, and canines. Collect a story trail from Z-arts Box Office and then set off on your family adventure across the road in Hulme Park.
Don’t worry it’s not far for little legs. You’ll follow the map, take part in challenges, and answer questions all based on Rob’s lovely story Dog Gone. The trail will lead you back to Z-arts Children’s Library, and shouldn’t take more than 15 minutes.
Seasonal Activity Trail
Port Sunlight Village
www.portsunlightvillage.com
Your family can enjoy a fun trail around the village filled with activities to keep you busy no matter when you visit. The selfled trails have something for all little ones to enjoy, from wildlife spotting to sporty challenges to arty activities. Pick up your trail pack from Port Sunlight Museum (open Wednesday-Sunday) for just £2 each to get going.
Dino Trail
Z-arts
www.z-arts.org
Gregosaurus and his tiny dinosaur friends are causing some ‘Happy Hatch Day’ havoc and have gone on an adventure around the building, please help to find them. Look out closely for them in Reception, cafe and Library areas of the building. There are eight to find, can you spot them all?
CAP COM GO!
Jodrell Bank www.jodrellbank.net
On 16th July 1969, three Astronauts blasted off to space to make the first ever attempt to land humans on the Moon. This short film allows you to relive the epic NASA Apollo 11 mission like never before. Suitable for astronauts of all ages. Tickets £5, available as an add-on to general admission. Running until 29th November.
SEPTEMBER
Sunday 8th September
Fun Dog Show at the Farm
Tatton Park
www.tattonpark.org.uk
An unforgettable day of fun and excitement, featuring ten delightful novelty classes that are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces.
Monday
9th September
Memory Café
Chester Zoo
www.chesterzoo.org
The Chester Zoo Memory Café is a place for people with dementia, their families, friends and carers to get together and enjoy a cuppa in the unique setting of the zoo. Meet and chat to other people and join in with quizzes, games and crafts. This is a flexible drop-in session running 10.30am-12noon and the coffee shop is open throughout for the purchase of hot drinks and cakes. Free to attend, takes place on the second and fourth Monday of each month.
Say you saw it in Primary
Sunday 15th September
Mosh Tots – Gigs for Kids
Future Yard, Birkenhead www.futureyard.org
The hippest, hottest party in town! EVERY Sunday during term time at 11am this popular show takes over Future Yard music venue in Birkenhead.
Monday 16th September
Music Makers
The Bridgewater Hall www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk
Monthly music and sensory play sessions for babies and toddlers, with songs and musical activities. The next one will be Monday 7th October.
Saturday 28th September
Arc Monthly Art Club
Hat Museum, Stockport www.stockport.gov.uk
Art and craft lovers aged three and over are invited to Arc at Hat Works on the last Saturday of every month (except for August and December). The Arc Saturday art club is a friendly and inclusive space. Drop in between 11am and 3pm.
Harvest Festival
Tatton Park
www.tattonpark.org.uk
A chance to celebrate the annual harvest by joining in with the Farm’s very own harvest festival. See the steam engine running, have a go at scarecrow making and spinning or make your own corn dolly.
Sunday 29th September
Hallé Family Concert
The Bridgewater Hall www.halle.co.uk
Hallé presents Marvellous Musical Myths and Legends. The concert is at 3pm and you can arrive anytime from 1.30pm for free fun family activities in the foyer!
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!
PLAN A SCHOOL VISIT
WITH A WILD DIFFERENCE
Ignite CURIOSITY and INSPIRE future conservationists at Chester Zoo
PLAN YOUR VISIT TODAY
37,000 incredible animals | Engaging workshops 128 acres to explore | Daily talks and activities
OCTOBER
Saturday 5th & Sunday 6th October
Grandparents’ Weekend
Gulliver’s Theme Park
www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk
Two Grandparents get free entry when accompanied by one full paying person throughout Grandparents’ Weekend! This special offer is available at all Gulliver’s Theme Parks on both the Saturday and the Sunday.
Day Out with Thomas East Lancashire Railway
www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
Take a trip on Sodor’s number one tank engine and meet Sir Topham Hatt! Your adventure begins at Bury Station where you’ll meet Sir Topham and climb aboard a carriage so Thomas can take you on a trip up the line. Once you return you will find lots more fun and games waiting for you across the road at Bury Transport Museum.
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FAMILY CONCERTS
Sunday 6th October
Relaxed Openings
Jodrell Bank
www.jodrell.net
Runs on the first Sunday of every month, creating an inclusive and accessible environment for all visitors. With reduced noise and light levels in the exhibitions, plus a quiet space in the First Light Pavilion, Relaxed Openings are a calmer start to the morning for anyone who might appreciate it. 10-11am.
Apple Fest
Tatton Park
www.tattonpark.org.uk
A scrumptious Sunday in the Gardens to celebrate the wonderful apple. Join in games and children’s activities in the gardens and taste delicious varieties from Tatton’s historic orchards. Enjoy tasty apple-based treats on sale in the shops and restaurants.
Marvellous Musical
Friday 11th October –
Sunday 3rd November
Halloween Spooktacular
Gandeys Circus, Trafford Centre www.gandeyscircus.com
24th– 26th October & Thursday 31st October
Halloween Ghost Trains East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org
You’ll start with a haunted house walkthrough at Bury, featuring all manner of animatronic creeps and kooks. Meet and interact with the fiends of the Monster Squad before enjoying a spooky steam train ride. Every child will also get a goody bag!
Use code PT5 to get a £5 off ringside seats!
Gandeys Circus returns once again with a brand-new action packed legendary Halloween Spooktacular Big Top Show for all the family at the Trafford Centre! From the thrill acts to the big production numbers Gandeys are famous for, it’s all here and you will be on the edge of your seat with excitement, rolling in the aisles with laughter, and hiding under your coats from the spooky thrills. This event gets more popular every year so it’s advisable to book in advance to avoid disappointment.
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!
Sunday 27th October
Mosh Tots –Halloween Special Future Yard, Birkenhead www.futureyard.org
Gigs for Kids! Visit Future Yard at 11am today for the Halloween Special.
Myths and Legends
at The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester
Explore wonderful stories of myths and legends through music, in a fun and interactive concert for all the family. Join the Hallé orchestra on a musical adventure full of fantastic creatures and characters.
Listen in awe to The Firebird, cast spells with Harry Potter, saddle up with Billy the Kid, save the day with The Avengers and ride our dragons to Berk – all in an afternoon’s work for the heroic Hallé!
Arrive any time from 1.30pm for free fun family activities in the foyer.
Whole School Open Morning
Saturday 12 October
0-11 Years - 9.30am-1.00pm • 11-18 Years - 9.30am-1.45pm
With consistently high examination results, outstanding inspection reports, excellent facilities and incredible extra-curricular opportunities, this friendly school will enable your child to realise their full potential.
Call 01204 840201 or visit www.boltonschool.org/visit-us to register to attend our Open Morning.
Our SCHOOLS
Manchester’s brilliant schools take pride in delivering exceptional teaching with outstanding facilities. Read on for their latest news and dates of upcoming Open Days.
Burnage Academy named UK Secondary School of the Year
Burnage Academy for Boys has been named UK Secondary School of the Year 2024 at the Tes Schools Awards, with judge Dame Christine Gilbert saying, “Burnage Academy is an inspiring and inclusive school where families are supported well and students thrive, love learning and achieve exceptionally well.”
Consistently amongst the country’s highest-performing schools when it comes to the education of boys, and with successive ‘Outstanding’ ratings by Ofsted, Burnage places great emphasis on not only academic achievement, but in ensuring that pupils have the opportunity to develop into well-rounded citizens who contribute positively to society. The caring nature of the school ensures that boys receive specialist support, guidance and mentoring throughout their journey.
Visit their Open Evening on Wednesday 25th September, 4-7pm.
The school also offers personal tours at your convenience. W: www.burnage.manchester.sch.uk
Bolton School: A Place to Flourish
With over 2,500 pupils enjoying an education in a co-ed Nursery and Infant School and then in single-sex Junior and Senior Schools with Sixth Forms, Bolton School is one of the largest and most successful schools in the country. The independent day school balances the best of tradition with cutting-edge modernity. Having celebrated its 500th anniversary in 2016, this illustrious heritage was enhanced by the recent completion of a £20m+ building programme, including a new all-weather sports pitch. Pupils benefit from outstanding facilities across the 32-acre campus and all Year 3-13 pupils are issued with iPads to complement their studies. Students achieve excellent GCSE and A level results and enjoy a wide range of extra-curricular activities, including at the school’s outdoor adventure learning centre, Patterdale Hall in the Lake District. Inspections regularly assess the school as “Excellent” in all categories and in 2019 it was the Tes’ independent school of the year. W: www.boltonschool.org
Activities Week delivers new skills and friendships for
pupils at The Manchester Grammar School
Every year, for one week in the summer term, all teaching at The Manchester Grammar School pauses, allowing every pupil to participate in a week-long activity of their choice. Some of these activities include: Bassenthwaite Camp (watersports), Borrowdale Camp (walking), Grasmere Camp (mountaineering), Chinese Martial Arts, Fencing & Adventure, Multi Activity Week, Computer Science, and Learning to Ski or Snowboard. This programme provides an excellent opportunity for pupils to strengthen friendships both within and across year groups, while challenging themselves to learn new skills and step out of their comfort zones. It serves as a wonderful conclusion to the academic year, allowing pupils to focus on friendships before they embark on the next school year with new friends, fresh academic pursuits, and various challenges. To find out more about Activities Week and the opportunities available at MGS, visit their website. W: www.mgs.org
Bridgewater School invites you to begin your individual journey
At this independent day school for children aged 3-18 years, success and happiness go hand in hand. At the heart of the school’s ethos lies the belief that every individual deserves a range of opportunities which will enable them to flourish, and visitors are invited to experience this holistic approach to education for themselves. For families interested in the benefits of a Bridgewater education, the school is holding a Whole School Open Day on Saturday 2nd November. Plan a visit and see how far your child could go. W: www.bridgewater-school.co.uk
Box OFFICE
All the very best theatre, arts and films near you. Book some warming entertainment your family this autumn.
The Albert Halls, Bolton www.quaytickets.com
Saturday 30th November
– Tuesday 31st December
RAPUNZEL –A TANGLED TALE
Get ready for a hair-raising adventure as Polka Dot Pantomimes and the Albert Hall present Rapunzel. A great treat for all the family!
AO Arena www.ao-arena.com
Sunday 6th October
PLANET EARTH III
Following on from the critically acclaimed and successful Blue Planet II and Planet Earth II Live in Concert arena tours, the muchanticipated Planet Earth III Live in Concert will include specially selected breath-taking footage from the latest sensational television series.
The Bridgewater Hall www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk
Sunday 29th September
THE HALLÉ –MARVELLOUS MUSICAL MYTHS AND LEGENDS
Explore wonderful stories of myths and legends through music, in a fun and interactive concert for all the family. Join presenter and broadcaster Tom Redmond, conductor Euan Shields, and the Hallé for a funfilled interactive family-friendly concert full of fantastic creatures and characters.
The Lowry www.thelowry.com
Saturday 21st –Sunday 22nd September
MONKEYS EVERYWHERE
A show for all ages – but especially for those who can’t always keep their monkeys under control! Full of clowning, silliness, and a lot of laughter, Monkeys Everywhere is a show with real heart.
Sunday 29th September
LITTLE RED RIDING COULD
Little Red Riding Hood is no longer little, she no longer wears a hood, and she wants to be called by her real name. She’s questioning everything. And so are Mother, the Woodcutter and even the Wolf! A playful and mischievous retelling of the familiar fairy tale, with original songs and signature Roustabout silliness, that dares you to step off the path and write your own story.
Tuesday 10th December – Sunday 5th January
STICK MAN
Touching, funny and utterly original, Freckle Productions’ delightful adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s Stick Man is back at The Lowry this Christmas! What starts off as a morning jog becomes quite the misadventure for Stick Man: a dog wants to play fetch with him, a swan builds a nest with him, and he even ends up on a fire! How will Stick Man ever get back to the family tree? This award-winning production features a trio of top actors and is packed full of puppetry, songs, live music and funky moves.
The Plaza, Stockport www.stockportplaza.co.uk Tuesday 17th-Saturday 21st
ANNIE
The Award-Winning Drama Dept that brought you Cats and Calendar Girls, present yet another unforgettable production.
Saturday 5th –Sunday 6th October
DEAR ZOO
Ben and Sally are searching for the perfect pet, but instead the zoo sent a far too big elephant, a far too grumpy camel, and a far too jumpy frog. Whatever will they send next?
Z-arts www.z-arts.org
Saturday 21st September
THE HIDDEN GARDEN
A magical tale of a blooming unlikely friendship.
Saturday 28th September
KATY AND THE MUSIC MACHINE
A live funk and soul music experience for the whole family. The six-piece band made up of keys, percussion, saxophone, guitar, bass and vocals covers well known funk and soul tracks with child friendly lyrics. The show is crammed with interaction including audience games, prizes and lots of fun!
Tuesday 22nd –Thursday 24th October
ROOM ON THE BROOM Jump on board the broom with the witch and her cat in Tall Stories’ fun-filled adaptation of Room on the Broom, the best-selling picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Enjoy this magical Olivier Award-nominated show for everyone aged 3 and up.
Say you saw it in Primary Times
THE HALLÉ AT BRIDGEWATER HALL
RAPUNZEL | THE ALBERT HALLS
Spot The Difference
Solar Search
An asteroid about the size of a car enters Earth’s atmosphere roughly once a year – but it burns up before it reaches us.
The whole of Mars is as cold as the South Pole A day is longer than a year on Venus
The Solar System is roughly 4.5 billion years old Saturn’s rings are 90% water
