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Welcome to our first issue of 2025!
We hope the year is off to a good start and everyone is back into the school routine after enjoying a festive break.
February half term is nearly here, and we have lots going on in the area. Take a look at our February Fun pages to help you plan your week with the children.
Our Annual Party Guide on pages 10 and 11 will provide inspiration for your all-important parties this year! Why not pull out those pages to keep or take a photo so that you can refer to them when it comes to planning.
Lastly, don’t forget to enter our competition on page 13 for your chance to win a family trip to the new Oxygen Activeplay at MediaCity.
We will be back in March when the weather is warmer and the daffodils are out, bringing you a roundup of what Manchester has to offer families this springtime.
Best Wishes,
INSIDE
04 LOCAL NEWS
The latest news from in and around Manchester
08 FEBRUARY FUN
Family-friendly places to visit over half term
10 PARTY GUIDE
Lots of party ideas to give you inspiration
12 WOW
What’s on Where – plan your weeks ahead
13
COMPETITION
Your chance to win a family trip to Oxygen at MediaCity
14 BOX OFFICE
An array of family shows to choose from
Local NEWS
Snippets of news from the area, including what’s on offer for families, from theatre schools to a brand new trampoline park opening this month!
NEW indoor Activeplay park opening: Oxygen at MediaCity
Get ready to jump, bounce and party as Oxygen Activeplay is landing in Manchester, bringing BIG-TIME fun to MediaCity on Monday 17th February!
The new, state-of-the-art venue is home to 24 trampolines, a mega-air bag, Oxygen’s signature Excite Tunnel, a high ropes course and more. Bouncers can take a break from jumping and get that sky-high feeling on the brand new ‘Sky Rider’ aerial experience! There’s plenty for little ones too with trampettes and more in the new Toddler Venture zone.
Oxygen at MediaCity will also host dedicated weekly sessions, specially tailored for toddlers, to support their development and for those with sensory or learning difficulties. There’s an awesome onsite cafe, serving delicious drinks, snacks, and meals, to recharge after all the big-time fun! Book your session online. W: www.oxygenactiveplay.co.uk/media-city
Open a world of possibilities with Kumon
Kumon Study Centres across Manchester work to build your child’s confidence and develop their learning mindset to help them achieve academic success. Open a world of possibilities and help your child reach their full potential with a one-week Free Trial of the Kumon study programmes, available to all new students from 1st February until 15th March.
Going beyond paper worksheets, there is also the option for digital study with KUMON CONNECT, making their study methods even more accessible and convenient through a tablet and stylus. For more information and to book your child’s Kumon Free Trial, contact your local Instructor via the website. W: www.kumon.co.uk
The Pauline Quirke Academy (PQA)
PQA’s mission extends beyond teaching performing arts. They like to think they’re future-proofing young people, setting them up with skills that will help them for years to come.
Through diverse activities in theatre, comedy, drama and filmmaking, children explore creativity, build self-belief, and gain life skills like mindfulness, empathy, and resilience. With professional teachers, inclusive values, and exciting projects that young people are actually interested in, PQA empowers your child to reach new heights, knowing they’re valued and supported. Visit www.pqacademy.com to discover your local academy and book your FREE session!
Is it better to have a pig’s heart that works … than a human heart
that doesn’t?
Cameron is thirteen, and all he wants is to be normal – have friends, go to school, and dive to the bottom of his local swimming pool. But he desperately needs a heart transplant and time is running out. When he’s finally offered a new heart, Cameron must choose how far he’ll go to get his life back.
From the multi award-winning writer Malorie Blackman OBE, author of Noughts and Crosses, this brilliant novel is brought to life in a brand-new adaptation by Winsome Pinnock, and is directed by Tristan Fynn-Aiduenu in a Unicorn co-production with Sheffield Theatres and Children’s Theatre Partnership. Pig Heart Boy is showing at The Lowry from Wednesday 26th until Saturday 29th March and you can book your tickets online now. W: www.thelowry.com
Find out just how far your child could go
At Bridgewater School, they believe in providing a holistic education that nurtures every aspect of a child’s development. From their earliest steps into learning, pupils benefit from exceptional staff-to-pupil ratios, specialist teaching and facilities, for an inspiring learning environment in which every child can flourish. Beyond the classroom, an immersive programme of trips and workshops brings subjects to life, while extensive extra-curricular and enrichment activities provide endless opportunities for pupils to discover their passions and develop essential skills. Visit on Saturday 29th March, 10am-1pm, for the EYFS & Prep Open Morning and see how Bridgewater can help your child shine. W: www.bridgewater-school.co.uk
Mini Music Adventures
SATURDAY 29 MARCH, 2PM AND 3.30PM, STOLLER HALL
Mini Music Adventures invites children aged 5–7 (and their grown-ups) to enjoy music from all over the world through interactive stories. Each fresh adventure takes you to a different country, meeting new characters, hearing new music, and listening to new tales. This March, join Storyteller Faz Shah, Musician Zi Lan Liao, and students from Chetham’s school of Music on a magical trip to China, featuring a new original story accompanied by traditional Chinese instruments and shadow puppets. Tickets are £6, with one accompanying adult per child going FREE! W: www.stollerhall.com
Say you saw it in Primary Times
Nurturing Young Stars at Razzamataz Manchester South
Razzamataz Theatre School offers a creative environment for children to discover new talents and build confidence through dance, drama, and singing classes. Their unique approach supports physical fitness, mental wellbeing, and communication skills, helping children to grow both on and off the stage. With a focus on fun and teamwork, children form lasting friendships while exploring their creativity. Try a FREE taster session at Razzamataz Manchester South to experience the joy of performing arts firsthand. Spaces are limited, so book today and give your child the gift of confidence and creative expression.
W: manchestersouth.razzamataz.co.uk
Learn by doing at Zip World
From unparalleled school trips to full educational programmes that start in the classroom and end with the adventure of a lifetime! At Zip World, they firmly believe that unique and memorable outdoor experiences are pivotal to learning; from science to geography, from life skills to teamwork…
Get the most out of your students with an incredible Zip World school trip on any one of the 30+ UK-based adventures or take the extra step and opt for a bilingual Zip World Educational Programme, which offers pre- and post-visit lesson plans, resources and presentations, with full links to the Welsh and English National Curriculum for Language, Science and Geography. Contact a member of the Schools Booking Team for more information. E: schools@zipworld.co.uk
February FUN
Four fantastic places to visit over February half term, all family-friendly and sure to entertain the children during their time off school. Some need to be booked in advance and others you can simply turn up on the day!
Meet the Minions at the fantastic Bury Transport Museum
FRIDAY 21ST FEBRUARY
Kevin and Bob will be appearing at intervals throughout the day, just pick the time that suits you. There will be even more family fun with three funfair rides suitable for toddlers, face painters and craft activities. Complete your day out with a ride onboard one of the heritage steam or diesel trains through the Irwell Valley. Ticket price includes a ride on any train service on the day of your visit! General Admission tickets must be purchased online, so don’t miss out. W: www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
Guess How Much I Love You – A Garden Adventure
Little Nutbrown Hare and Big Nutbrown Hare will be hopping over to RHS Garden Bridgewater! Bringing the beautiful story and illustrations to their gardens, the RHS have partnered with Walker Books for the 30th anniversary celebration of Guess How Much I Love You™ by Sam McBratney and Anita Jeram.
Starting this half term (Saturday 15th-Sunday 23rd February), and lasting all year, enjoy discovering the interactive hands-on garden trail and activities, based on the well-loved children’s book. Bounce, hop and stretch like Little Nutbrown Hare, investigate colours, textures and shapes found in the garden, and learn about nature, growing and the changing seasons. With craft, planting and dance workshops too, there’s plenty to keep the whole family busy this holiday. W: www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/bridgewater
Tee Off with some family fun at Paradise Island Adventure Golf
Set sail for the Trafford Centre and seek out Paradise Island Adventure Golf with two 18-hole courses spanning across 16,500 sq./ft of tropical utopia. Adventurers are invited to take on the twists, turns, humps and bumps of Tiki Hut Trail or Temple Ruins Adventure, also, tank on the 19th hole where a perfect hole-in-one will reward you with a free game! The Par-fect family day out! Walk ins are welcome but why not save money with 20% OFF one round with online booking code PTMAN25, T&Cs apply – see the advert in this issue for details. W: www.paradiseislandgolf.com
Plan a trip to King Pins this half term
The ultimate bowling experience for all the family. You’ll find stateof-the-art Ten Pin and Duck Pin lanes, ice-free curling, shuffleboard, tech darts, batting cages, air hockey, arcade games, karaoke booths, mini golf and more! King Pins is the Crown Jewels of bowling. As well as the action you can grab a snack or dig in for a feast from partners PLY pizza and Wings of Power. Kick back in the bar and enjoy fresh coffee from 200°, stunning cocktails, slushies, local craft beers and more, plus, don’t forget a visit to the sweet treats emporium, Royal Treats before you leave. W: www.kingpins.co.uk
Book online with code PTMAN25 for 20% OFF one round
A garden adventure
Half Term Fun, Sat 15 - Sun 23 Feb
Little Nutbrown Hare and Big Nutbrown Hare are hopping over to join us! Starting this February half term, and lasting all year, enjoy discovering our interactive hands-on garden trail and activities, based on the well-loved children’s book.
Party GUIDE
Inspiration for those all-important birthday parties and events throughout the year. Three action packed venues are detailed here so that you can tailor parties to the birthday child!
King Pins
www.kingpins.co.uk
The team at King Pins are there to make sure your kids have their best party yet! With the choice of Duck Pin or Ten Pin Bowling, food, drinks and more on offer, the kids won’t leave disappointed. As well as gaming, a delicious buffet of pizza and chicken and unlimited squash – every child will also get an exclusive kit bag with extra goodies inside. Want to make it extra-special? There are a number of add-ons such as deserts, premium drinks like slushies, and a private party room complete with karaoke!
Oxygen Activeplay at MediaCity
www.oxygenactiveplay.co.uk/media-city
Just book a package to suit your needs and the crew will take over whilst you kick back in the café. Your Party Host will crank up the fun! The kids get 60 minutes of wild playtime, then it’s off to their VIP party zone for hot food – think pizza, chicken tenders, hot dogs (vegan options too), and endless squash. Plus, everyone receives a pair of reusable Oxygen Activeplay socks and a free voucher for their next adventure! And that’s just the Classic package. Want to take the celebration to the next level? Upgrade to the Jump-Up or BIG-TIME packages for awesome extras like delicious slushies and ice cream. Let’s not forget the tiniest party animals… the Under 5’s Party Package is designed just for them, with an hour of jumping, soft play, pancakes and unlimited squash. Even the littlest jumpers deserve a big-time celebration!
Rock Up
www.rock-up.co.uk/parties
Looking for the ultimate birthday adventure? Rock Up is the perfect place to celebrate! Climb, explore, and play your way to an unforgettable day with friends and family. The exciting climbing walls are designed for all ages and abilities, making it the ideal party for everyone. With dedicated party rooms, delicious food options, and a chance to take on thrilling challenges like the Vertical Drop Slide, it’s a day packed with fun and excitement. Make it a birthday to remember – book your Rock Up party today!
Top Party Tips
• When planning your child’s party consider venue, entertainment, food & drink, decorations and birthday cake
• Two hours is usually plenty of time for a children’s party
• It’s good to have the entertainment at the start, with food afterwards
• Ask about any allergies or dietary requirements on the invitation
• Put an RSVP date on the invitation so that you know numbers in advance of the party – this makes the planning and catering a bit easier
• It’s useful to have a basic first aid kit on hand or check if your venue has one you can use
• If parents are staying for the party, don’t forget the teas and coffees too, they are always welcomed!
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!
FUN THINGS TO DO LOCALLYWOW WHAT’S ON WHERE
in Greater Manchester
THIS SEASON
King Pins
Trafford Palazzo and Manchester Arndale
www.kingpinsbowling.co.uk
The ultimate bowling experience for all the family. You’ll find stateof-the-art Ten Pin bowling, as well as Duck Pin lanes, ice-free curling, shuffleboard, pool, ping pong, and a huge arcade. Book now for half term.
Stoller Hall at Chetham’s
The Stoller Hall in Manchester www.stollerhall.com
Family fun at The Stoller Hall in Manchester, with interactive workshops, live music, and family entertainment. Each month their Stoller Story Sounds workshops have a different theme, taking preschoolers and their grown-ups on an interactive musical journey.
Rock Up Manchester
www.rock-up.co.uk
Rock Up is the perfect destination to experience adventure and reach new heights! Try the incredible 8m climbing walls with over 70+ vertical challenges to test yourself, build confidence and have mountains of fun. Explore the delightful and sensory soft play full of activities to get the little ones burning off their energy and having fun with friends.
Stick Man Returns
Delamere Forest www.forestryengland.uk/stick-man
Enjoy a new forest adventure with the much-loved character. Follow the trail to discover panels, offering hands-on experiences from building with sticks to learning about forests, as you follow Stick Man’s journey back to his family tree. The accompanying £4 activity pack includes materials to create your own Stick Man and a special passport so you can collect stamps along the trail.
Saturday 15th –Sunday 2nd March
Fairytale Scarecrow Festival
Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk
Fee-fi-fo-Fun for all the family at this annual Scarecrow Festival. Look out for Rapunzel, Goldilocks and the Three Bears, and even Jack and his Beanstalk!
From Monday 17th February
NEW Oxygen Activeplay
Oxygen Active MediaCity www.oxygenactiveplay.co.uk/media-city
Wednesday 19th February
Dome Show: TED’s Space Adventure
Jodrell Bank www.jodrellbank.net
Saturday 15th –Sunday 23rd February
Guess How Much I Love You – A Garden Adventure
RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk
Little Nutbrown Hare and Big Nutbrown Hare are here! Enjoy discovering the interactive hands-on garden trail and activities, based on the well-loved children’s book.
Paradise Island Adventure Golf
Trafford Centre
www.paradiseislandgolf.com
Tee off the half term with some family fun enjoying two 18-hole courses.
Half Term Fun
Jodrell Bank
www.jodrellbank.net
New free science show ‘Magic vs Science’, site trail ‘Star Hunter’ and space crafts! TED is also back in the Space Dome, perfect for pre-schoolers. 10am-4pm. Tickets required.
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!
Get ready to jump, bounce and party as Oxygen Activeplay is landing in Manchester, bringing BIG-TIME fun to MediaCity! The new, state-of-the-art venue is home to 24 trampolines, a mega-air bag, Oxygen’s signature Excite Tunnel, a high ropes course and more. Opening on Monday 17th February – perfect timing for half term!
Monday 17th February
Garden Adventure
RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk
Join the garden adventure, perfect for little explorers, and hear the story of Guess How Much I Love You™ as you walk through the garden. 40-minute sessions at 11am, 12.15pm and 1.30pm.
Tuesday 18th February
Deer Feed Safari
Tatton Park
www.tattonpark.org.uk
Take a trailer ride with the Rangers to watch the daily deer feed. Get a close look at hundreds of deer feeding in their beautiful natural setting.
Cup of Soup
RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk
Head to the Learning Studio and sow your own carrot and coriander ‘cup of soup.’
Packed with music, rhyme and interactive fun. It’s the perfect introduction to space for little explorers aged 3-7. 10.45am. Tickets £5. Under 4’s go FREE.
Storytelling
RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk
Join Colour the Clouds for a wonderful interactive storytelling of Guess How Much I Love You™.
Thursday 20th
February
Dome Show: The Great Solar System Adventure
Jodrell Bank www.jodrellbank.net
Experience an immersive adventure and be amazed as you learn about the wonders of our Solar System. Runs on weekends and daily in school holidays. 11am and 3pm. Tickets £5.
Travel To Wonderland
East Lancs Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
Take a tumble down the rabbit hole with Alice and friends.
Dance Workshop
RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk
Hop around like Little Nutbrown Hare in dance workshops inspired by the story of Guess How Much I Love You™.
Friday 21st February
Meet the Minions
East Lancs Railway
www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
Kevin and Bob will be appearing at intervals throughout the day! There will be even more family fun with three funfair rides, face painters and craft activities. Complete your day out with a ride onboard a heritage steam or diesel train through the Irwell Valley. Ticket price includes a ride on any train service on the day.
Clay Station Workshop
RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk
Make your own clay hare to take home.
Say you saw it in Primary Times
Sunday 23rd February
Ramadan Workshop
RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk
Learn more about Ramadan with storytelling, have your hand painted with henna and make your own moon and stars mobile.
Saturday 1st & Sunday 2nd March
Pancake Weekend
Tatton Park
www.tattonpark.org.uk
Learn about the chickens that lay eggs, how flour is ground in the mill, and join in with some flipping fun… making and tasting the humble pancake!
Saturday 1st –Sunday 9th March
Lambing Weekends
Reaseheath College www.reaseheath.ac.uk/lambing
See newborn lambs up close and learn all about lambing season. Enjoy a fun-filled day in the lambing sheds, photo opportunities with the lambs, a Farmers’ Market, and a visit to Reaseheath Mini Zoo. Running on the first two weekends in March.
Sunday 2nd March
Relaxed Openings
Jodrell Bank www.jodrellbank.net
With reduced noise and light levels, a relaxed screening of ‘The Story of Jodrell Bank’, and a designated Quiet Space, this is a calmer start to the morning for anyone who might appreciate it. 10-11am. Runs on the first Sunday of each month.
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!
Chance To WIN
To enter this competition please email competitions@primarytimesmag.com When you enter make sure you give us your name, address, email, child’s age and school. Good luck!
Saturday 29th March
Mini Music Adventures
Stoller Hall www.stollerhall.com
Enjoy music from all over the world through interactive stories. Each fresh adventure takes you to a different country, meeting new characters, hearing new music, and listening to new tales. Perfect for children aged 5-7 and their grown-ups. Tickets £6, with one accompanying adult per child going FREE! 2pm and 3.30pm.
Oxygen Activeplay is opening in Manchester on 17th February, bringing BIG-TIME fun to MediaCity! The new, state-of-the-art venue is home to 24 trampolines, a mega-air bag, Oxygen’s signature Excite Tunnel, a high ropes course and more.
To celebrate, we have a Family Open Play ticket, PLUS a Feed the Family bundle up for grabs! Answer the question below and email your answer titled ‘Oxygen’ to be entered into our prize draw.
Which animal is known for their bouncing abilities?
A) Sloth B) Kangaroo C) Turtle
Box OFFICE
A selection of family-friendly theatre shows taking to the stage over the next few months.
The Albert Halls Bolton www.quaytickets.com
Friday 28th February
THE MAGIC OF LITTLE MIX
LMXT are the hottest act in the country right now, paying tribute to the award-winning Little Mix.
Saturday 19th April
THE PANTOMIME ADVENTURES OF PETER PAN
Set sail and join the swashbuckling adventures of Peter Pan in this high-flying pantomime for all the family! Join Captain Hook and the Pirates of Neverland as they attempt to capture Peter Pan and his friends Tinkerbell, Wendy, the Hilarious Mr Smee and not forgetting the fabulous Mrs Smee.
Floral Pavilion www.floralpavilion.com
Thursday 20th February
FIREMAN SAM LIVE –THE GREAT CAMPING ADVENTURE
A spectacular new show for all the family.
Sunday 23rd February
THE LITTLE MERMAID
Packed with dazzling sets, colourful characters, astounding choreography, original music, and heaps of audience participation, this brand-new adaptation sees the adventurous Little Mermaid embark on an unforgettable adventure.
The Lowry www.thelowry.com
Monday 17th –
Thursday 20th February
THE DETECTIVE DOG
Tiny & Tall Productions, formerly Tessa Bide Productions, brings you Julia Donaldson and Sara Ogilvie’s well-loved story, The Detective Dog, on stage for deaf and hearing family audiences.
Thursday 20th –Sunday 23rd February
BING’S BIRTHDAY
Join Bing and his friends Sula, Pando, Coco, Amma, and of course Flop, as they get ready to celebrate his special day in the brand-new live stage show, Bing’s Birthday!
Sunday 2nd March
OLAF FALAFEL’S STUPIDEST SUPER STUPID SHOW
After a sell-out run at last year’s Fringe, comedian and children’s author Olaf Falafel is dishing up another frying pan full of familyfriendly comedy.
Sunday 16th March
THE LITTLEST YAK
This musical adaptation of the award-winning children’s book will delight audiences young and old with beautiful puppets, catchy tunes and an uplifting tale of selfacceptance for all the family.
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!
The Met www.themet.org.uk
Wednesday 26th –Saturday 29th March
PIG HEART BOY
Cameron is thirteen, and all he wants is to be normal – have friends, go to school, and dive to the bottom of his local swimming pool. But he desperately needs a heart transplant and time is running out. When he’s finally offered a new heart, Cameron must choose how far he’ll go to get his life back. From the multi award-winning writer Malorie Blackman OBE, author of Noughts and Crosses, this brilliant novel is brought to life.
Manchester Opera House www.atgtickets.com
Saturday 15th February
SING-A-LONG-ENCANTO
A screening of the movie with interactive elements.
Sunday 23rd March
THE DINOSAUR THAT POOPED
When Danny and Dino’s favourite rock band are playing their last ever concert, they go on a quest to get the last two tickets. But with a villainous band manager lurking, nothing goes to plan. Will the band perform? Will Danny rock out? Or will Dino’s rumbling tummy save the day?
Manchester Palace Theatre www.atgtickets.com
Thursday 13th –Saturday 15th February
HORRIBLE HISTORIES
Terrible Tudors on Thursday 13th February and Awful Egyptians on Saturday 15th February.
Tuesday 11th –Sunday 16th March
CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG
This ravishing award-winning musical is bursting with unforgettable songs by the Sherman Brothers including Toot Sweets, Hushabye Mountain, Truly Scrumptious and the Academy Award-nominated title song, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.
Saturday 15th February
SANDSCAPE
A beautiful, engaging, rhythmic and musical play without words for children aged 2-7 that explores the texture, weight, and breath of sand.
Tuesday 18th February
CINDERELLA ICE CREAM SELLER
A delicious ice-cold retelling of a fairytale classic featuring storytelling, stunning live music, and theatrical magic that will capture your heart and tickle your taste buds. Ages 5+.
Thursday 20th February
FAMILY STORIES AND DRAGONS
A fantasy role-playing game for all the family. Join the League of Curiosity for Family Stories and Dragons, a unique experience where families come together within the Storytelling Hub to explore a world of fantasy and adventure.
Middleton Arena www.yourtix.co.uk
Sunday 16th February
FIREMAN SAM – THE GREAT CAMPING ADVENTURE
Norman wants to go on an adventure to impress his friends, so when two famous animal explorers arrive in Pontypandy, he decides to follow them into the mountains.
Tuesday 18th –Sunday 23rd March
SHREK THE MUSICAL
Everyone’s favourite ogre is back in the hilarious stage spectacle based on the Oscar-winning, smash hit film.
Storyhouse Theatre www.storyhouse.com
Saturday 15th February – Sunday 2nd March
THE PARENT AGENCY –A NEW FAMILY MUSICAL
A hilarious new family musical adapted by David Baddiel from his best-selling book, with music by acclaimed songwriter Dan Gillespie Sells (Everybody’s Talking About Jamie).
