Primary Times Greater Manchester - Summer 2023

LOST AND FOUND

Written by Oliver Jeffers

Adapted and Directed for the stage

by Will Brenton

With Music by Gruff Rhys

HELLO READERS!

Summer break, sunny holidays, six weeks off school… it’s nearly here! Your children will be delighted and, while parents can also enjoy a break from the term time routine, there are a lot of days to be filled in the weeks to come!

In readiness, here’s our sunniest issue filled with local family favourites for guaranteed fun! Life moves at pace and so it’s important to maximise the precious time we have with our young children, away from the grind of work and chores. In these pages you’ll find perfect daily getaways to provide adventure, gorgeous scenery and great family entertainment. Got small culture vultures or budding scientists in the family? Then head to one of our fantastic and free museums – all geared up for pint-sized hands and packed with superb, interactive exhibits and displays to keep curious young minds enthralled. As well as big days out or even foreign travel, it’s important to have quieter days near home to re-charge too. You’ll find there are plenty of free town and shopping centre activities to enjoy – add in walks to the park and a picnic on the green and you’ll have the perfect recipe for a memorable summer!

Good luck to the Year Six leavers and their parents who are moving on to Secondary School – we hope your next chapter of school life is an exciting one! We’ll be back in September at the start of the new term, but in the meantime, enjoy the warmth, sun and fun that summer brings.

4thissueNextout Sept

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The Grand Bug & Pest Hotel Hunt

Sat 22 Jul – Sun 3 Sep

DO YOU HAVE A CHILD IN YEAR 5 OR 6?

BURNAGE PREPARES BOYS TO BECOME SUCCESSFUL LEARNERS AND RESPONSIBLE CITIZENS

Do you know your child’s current mathematical ability? Is your child’s maths strong enough for their transition to secondary school? Take a FREE online maths test from AE Publications which will help you identify the gaps in your child’s knowledge and the areas requiring further improvement. To take their free maths test, go to www.aepublications.co.uk

After your child has taken the test, you will be sent a link to view a video of a fully UK-qualified teacher working through the answers and the correct methodology. Please note there is no requirement to provide an email address to access the free test, but an email address is required should you wish to receive further information, including the explanation video.

STAGECOACH NURTURES YOUNG POTENTIAL IN THE PERFORMING ARTS – NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY!

Burnage Academy for Boys consistently ranks amongst the highest in the country when it comes to the progress of boys. The curriculum is designed to build independence and resilience; ensuring pupils have the skills, knowledge and understanding to be successful learners and responsible citizens who can make a positive contribution to society. The school values the development of the whole child and strives to prepare all for the world of Manchester and beyond. Carefully planned social, moral, spiritual and cultural events, and a wide extracurricular offer, ensures that all students gain a sense of place by understanding where Manchester has come from and how they can contribute to its future. W: www.burnage.manchester.sch.uk

ENJOY SUMMER DAYS OUT ACROSS GREATER MANCHESTER WITH SYSTEM ONE TRAVEL

With one bus ticket to use on all bus companies across Greater Manchester, System One Travel makes it easy for you to get out and about this summer. From the sights of the city centre, to exploring our local towns and parks, getting around is easy and fun by bus!

System One Travel has bus tickets for everyone – just pop on to www.systemonetravel.co.uk to find the perfect ticket for your family. You can buy on bus, at Travelshops or your local PayPoint.

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. What have you got to lose, go and give their classes a try!

Urmston T: 07507 177258 W: www.stagecoach.co.uk/urmston

Altrincham T: 07904 451199 W: www.stagecoach.co.uk/altrincham

Do you have a child in year 5 or 6?

Our FREE online maths test will help you identify the gaps in your child’s knowledge and the areas requiring further improvement. Go to aepublications.co.uk to take our test.

• Do you know your child’s current mathematical ability?

• Is your child’s maths strong enough for their transition to secondary school?

Take our free test to find out.

After your child has taken the test, you will be sent a link to view a video of a fully UK-qualified teacher working through the answers and the correct methodology.

* There is no requirement to provide an email address to access the free test.

** An email address is required should you wish to receive further information, including the explanation video.

ENJOY A TRULY MAGICAL PERFORMANCE OF ‘LOST AND FOUND’ AT FACTORY INTERNATIONAL

FEEL THAT LIFE COULD BE BETTER? HELP IS AT HAND WITH NOT A BLUE TREE

This winter, Factory International are taking us on epic journey to the South Pole in a heart-warming adaptation of Oliver Jeffers’ award-winning children’s story, Lost and Found. This magical tale of one boy’s quest to help a lost penguin find its way home, arrives in Manchester this December. Adapted by renowned children’s TV and theatre producer Will Brenton with original music composed by Gruff Rhys, featuring puppetry and video projections, a cast of characters that charm and delight, not to mention a gang of rowdy seagulls. Lose yourself in a moving and magical tale of friendship this winter, showing from 13th December until 6th January 2024. Tickets are available online now. W: factoryinternational.org

How’s life going? As you take a step back and reflect on all that is happening, are you now living the future you previously planned for yourself? If you are, celebrate all that you have become. If your life is something other than what you planned, if doubt and anxiety are getting in the way, if the barriers feel overwhelming, then get in touch. Not a Blue Tree offers a professional and affordable coaching approach for adults and children, so that you can make the changes you want to make and become the very best version of you!

T: 07801 803197 W: www.notabluetree.com

After a successful first two years, Hope Mill Theatre’s Saturday School is full! Due to popular demand, this fun and inclusive Musical Theatre training is now being made available for ages 2-18 on SUNDAYS! Go and learn to sing, dance, and act with the team behind one of Manchester’s award-winning theatres - with regular performance opportunities on a professional stage, and a yearly week-long summer school. Fully funded places are available, and trial weeks are completely free, Hope Mill Theatre School is non-elitist and for everyone to enjoy the benefits of musical theatre training! Get in touch or visit them online for more details. W: hopemilltheatre.co.uk

This summer, Transport for Greater Manchester has launched its Destination Generator to inspire families to use Metrolink and discover all that the region has to offer by tram. The website provides tailored suggestions for destinations and days out for those who are stuck for ideas, including free and affordably priced activities which can all be reached by Metrolink. Travel advice will include the nearest tram stop, information about the venue and the best value ticket, with families (two adults and up to three children) able to enjoy unlimited travel using one-day or weekend Metrolink travelcards. Find out more information online. W: tfgm.com/summer

CATCH THE TRAM TO GET AROUND GREATER MANCHESTER – PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH AN EASY-TO-USE DESTINATION GENERATOR!

MUSICAL THEATRE TRAINING IS NOW AVAILABLE FOR CHILDREN ON SUNDAYS!

If you’ve got lots of days to fill during this long school holiday, we’re here to help! Read on to find out what to do and where to do it! From adventure playgrounds to animal antics, we’re sure you’ll find enough local entertainment to cater for all budgets, interests and British weather conditions, all summer long!

ENJOY A FUN DAY OUT AT IKEA MANCHESTER THIS SUMMER!

At IKEA, you can enjoy a host of free arts and crafts, games and competitions during the school holidays. Check out ‘Events’ at the bottom of their web page for more details. Plus, in the Swedish restaurant your little ones can enjoy Kids Pasta with Tomato sauce and a soft drink for just 95p. They also have a great range of other meals for children and adults on offer. IKEA Family members get FREE hot drinks Monday to Friday. If you’re not already a member you can join online or instore. W: www.IKEA.co.uk/events

JULIA & AXEL: 30 YEARS OF FAVOURITE STORIES AT THE LOWRY

This summer, The Lowry in collaboration with publishers Macmillan Children’s Books and Scholastic, are hosting a new exhibition celebrating the acclaimed partnership between Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, who have created some of the world’s best-loved, and best-selling children’s books, including The Gruffalo, Zog, Room on the Broom, The Smeds and the Smoos, and most recently, The Baddies. From Saturday 22nd July, this free family-friendly exhibition will feature several of Julia Donaldson’s personal writing notebooks; containing the very first ideas and creative thinking behind her picture book stories. These will be shown alongside Axel Scheffler’s artwork, showing the process of his illustrations from sketches and works in progress, to full page final illustrations that readers are familiar with seeing in the finished books. T: 0161 876 2000 W: www.thelowry.com

A CRACKING, ROARSOME TIME IS GUARANTEED AT DINO FALLS ADVENTURE

GOLF!

Manchester’s biggest adventure golf course Dino Falls Adventure Golf features 36 holes of prehistoric fun! Experience two 18hole outdoor courses and adventure along the course to spot the famous T-Rex, mischievous Triceratops, fun selfie points, a volcanic eruption and trick shot opportunities! No matter what your age, this is the perfect family day out! Open seven days a week, 7am-10.30pm. W: www.dinofalls.co.uk

TRAFFORD PALAZZO HOSTS SUMMER CARNIVAL WITH FREE ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS

All set to wow the crowds at TraffordCity this August, the team from Trafford Palazzo are bringing you TP Summer Carnival! The family fun-filled month will offer a huge range of FREE activities, such as dance schools, circus workshops, crafts, and a whole variety of tasty food vendors. It’s open to all ages for everyone to enjoy this summer. W: www.traffordcity.co.uk/traffordpalazzo

TRAFFORD GOLF CENTRE TEACHES AND DEVELOPS YOUNG PLAYERS

Home to the nation’s premiere golf Academy and the leading American Golf retail store in the North, Trafford Golf Centre is an inclusive, family-friendly venue. With Toptracer technology on all bays, it’s also home to a licensed Café & Bar serving Starbucks, open seven days a week, 7am-10.30pm. Perfect for young golfers wanting to learn, or try their hand at a new sport, their Junior Academy progresses young players through achievable targets and the rules and etiquette of golf. W: www.traffordgolfcentre.co.uk

TRAFFORD TREETOP ADVENTURES - THE IDEAL DESTINATION FOR ALL THRILL-SEEKERS OUT THERE!

Experience the exhilaration of Trafford Treetop Adventures where you can swing, climb and have maximum fun in the trees - with a 25-obstacle & zipline challenge conveniently located at the Trafford Centre. It’s a must-visit for adventure seekers of all ages this summer! Head online and book today. W: www.peak.co.uk/trafford-treetop-adventures

The Stockport

This summer a brand-new trail of ‘Frogtastic Invention’ frogs will be hopping onto their giant cogs across the town centre, creating an educational, vibrant and fun free outdoor art trail for everyone to enjoy over the summer holidays.

SUMMER DAZE AND HAPPY TIMES AHEAD AT THE TRAFFORD CENTRE

Immerse yourself in all the delights on offer at Trafford Centre’s Summer Daze event this summer, running from 21st July3rd September. There are endless hours of fun to be had with all the family, with fairground rides, giant beach, splash park, tasty treats and more! The kids won’t want to go home! Find out opening times and prices online. W: traffordcentre.co.uk

SCHOOL’S OUT AND SUMMER IS SORTED WITH BENTS

Discover an abundance of ideas to keep the little ones moving and their minds active down at Bents Garden & Home. The fun extends from the Outdoor Play Area and Covered Beach to the beauty of Weeping Ash Garden, where a host of friendly fairies and dinosaurs are waiting to be discovered. There are crafting activities, storytime picnics and not forgetting the 18-hole Jurassic Cove Adventure Golf Course. And once the little ones have expended all their energy, why not indulge yourselves with a well-deserved treat in one of Bents’ delicious dining destinations. W: www.bents.co.uk

GET READY FOR A FOREST FULL OF FAMILY ADVENTURES AT BEWILDERWOOD

Enjoy a full day of family fun at BeWILDerwood Cheshire this summer! Explore giant slippery slides, extra-long zip wires, muddled mazes, face painting, crafts and more! Plus, everything is included in your ticket which really does make BeWILDerwood a great value day out. As well as all the usual fun, from 1st July – 5th September visitors can enjoy a brand new event. Based on the third book in the BeWILDerwood book series, BeWILDermuddle welcomes a new Crocklebog Crown craft, Soopa Scale face paint and story at the Storytelling Stage. Again, all this and more included in your ticket, hooray! Book tickets on the BeWILDerwood website. W: BeWILDerwood.co.uk

HEY DUGGEE FAMILY FUN DAY AT THE EAST LANCASHIRE RAILWAY

Enjoy a Family Fun Day on the 24th & 25th August and join Duggee as he explores the Bury Transport Museum! Take your young Squirrels to meet Duggee at intervals on each day and don’t forget your camera! That’s not all, the family fun continues with a selection of fair rides, face painting and craft activities, all included in the ticket price. Complete your day out with a ride on a heritage steam or diesel train on the East Lancashire Railway, ticket price includes a ride on any ELR train services on the day of your visit. General admission tickets must be purchased online. W: www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

SUMMER OF SPACE ADVENTURES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY AT JODRELL BANK

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

Summer holidays are almost here and TraffordCity is the ultimate place to bring your brood for some family fun.

Where else can you bring them to let off steam with some ball-whacking golf fun, putt a round on a dino-themed adventure course, take to the slopes in real snow, skydive indoors or swing through the treetops?

Trafford Palazzo

Summer Carnival

Trafford Palazzo’s ‘Summer Carnival’ is offering FREE funfilled activities this August, including dance schools, circus workshops, crafts, a variety of food vendors and open for all ages to enjoy.

traffordcity.co.uk/traffordpalazzo

How about a trip to the beach and fairground, a Summer Carnival, discovering an undersea world, getting creative in a LEGO® wonderland, or catching the latest family film?

And when they’ve worked up an appetite, fill those rumbling tums with delicious food.

The Trafford Centre

Lose yourself at Trafford Centre’s Summer Daze event this summer. There are endless hours of fun to be had, with fairground rides, giant beach, splash park, tasty treats and more!

traffordcity.co.uk/traffordcentre

Dino Falls Adventure Golf

Dino Falls Adventure Golf is Manchester’s biggest adventure golf course featuring 36 holes of outdoor prehistoric fun! No matter your age or golfing experience, it’s the perfect family day out!

traffordcity.co.uk/dinofalls

Trafford Golf Centre

Trafford Golf Centre is Europe’s premiere golf practice facility, featuring 53 bays with Toptracer and PowerTee, Starbucks Café and Bar, American Golf shop and the largest Academy in the UK.

traffordcity.co.uk/tgc

Chill Factore

Looking for activities for you and the kids near Manchester? Here at Chill Factore we have something for everyone, from the adrenaline enthusiast to the chilled observer.

traffordcity.co.uk/chillfactore

Play Factore

Visit the UK’s largest indoor family entertainment arena this Summer! With the biggest play frame & slide in the UK, laser tag, zip wire, gaming trampolines, coffee shop and restaurant - there’s something for all the family to enjoy!

traffordcity.co.uk/playfactore

Trafford Treetop Adventures

Experience the exhilaration of Trafford Treetop Adventures - a 25-obstacle and zipline challenge. It’s a must-visit for adventure seekers of all ages!

traffordcity.co.uk/trafftreetop

HOW DOES YOUR BODY WORK? FIND OUT FUN FACTS AT THE SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY MUSEUM

Dive headfirst into the digestive system at the Science and Industry Museum for an unforgettable journey of super-sized science with a brand-new blockbuster exhibition Operation Ouch! Food, Poo and You, which brings the hit BBC children’s TV series to life. Find out more about the incredible world of our brilliant bodies with a summer long programme of free family fun. Take a bear (or any squishy friend) to visit the Teddy Hospital. Find out more about our bodies and how to take better care of them with fun and fascinating activities. Get ready for a new interactive science show packed with surprising facts about why our bodies are the same, but different too. W: www.scienceandindustrymuseum.org.uk

THE GRAND BUG & PEST HOTEL HUNT AT RHS GARDEN BRIDGEWATER

Because bugs need a break too, Lloyd and friends are off on their holidays. At least, they will be if Lloyd can remember where the hotel is… This summer, visit a resort with a difference: The Grand Bug & Pest Hotel. Opening on 22nd July at RHS Garden Bridgewater in Greater Manchester, this luxurious getaway boasts an Olympic-size outdoor puddle and spectacular views over a tuft of grass. It’s the perfect place for a miniature adventure! Lloyd and friends have booked a stay at the hotel, but Lloyd’s lost the map. Can you help them reach their fabulous vacation destination? Download Lloyd’s augmented reality Bug Hunt app and have fun on the Grand Bug & Pest Hotel Hunt trail. You can meet all sorts of bugs on an animal encounter with Zoolab, enjoy Aardman model making and animation workshops, and family-friendly theatre shows! Advance booking required, normal garden admission applies.

T: 0161 503 6100 W: www.rhs.org.uk

ZOG BRINGS SOME ROARSOME MAGIC TO THE STAGE AT THE LOWRY

Freckle Productions, in association with Rose Theatre, presents ZOG! Based on the book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, this smash-hit stage adaptation from Freckle Productions (the team behind Zog and the Flying Doctors and Stick Man) is coming to The Lowry, Salford this summer and promises to be bigger, brighter and more roar-some than ever before! With lively songs from Joe Stilgoe and directed by Emma Kilbey; Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved Zog is a magical production for all ages. Accessible, Group and School rates all available! T: 0161 876 2000 W: www.thelowry.com

WHAT NEW DISCOVERIES WILL YOU MAKE THIS HOLIDAY?

Eureka! Science + Discovery is a brand-new attraction, housed in the Seacombe Ferry Terminal building, that has been created with and for children and young people aged 0-14. If you’re familiar with their sister site in Halifax, you’ll recognise their unique blend of creative, hands-on learning combined with cutting edge 21st century technology that has resulted in an engaging and fun-filled family day out and discovery experience! Please check their website and social media for opening hours and for what’s on! On site parking is available. Multiple bus stops outside with regular connections to Liverpool, Woodside, New Brighton and Wallasey. W: www.eurekadiscovery.org.uk

PACK YOUR BAGS – MANCHESTER DAY IS TAKING YOU ON HOLIDAY!

Manchester Day - on Holiday will be a special summer’s day to captivate families and friends alike. On Saturday 29th July, 12noon–9pm, be entertained by performers, skilful musicians and a menagerie of surprising animals. Marvel as the city’s streets come alive with entertainment, tunes, dance moves and wonderful shows. What’s more - it’s all FREE! With some of the UK’s best street acts and the North West’s most talented young musicians, lots of ice cream and a few giant snails, we promise you plenty to delight your family, amuse your kids, and kick-off the school holidays to a great start. W: manchester.gov.uk/manchesterday

HANDS-ON FUN AND ENTERTAINMENT EVERY SINGLE DAY OF SUMMER!

This summer Eureka! The National Children’s Museum in Halifax is the place to be! They’ll be joined by Eureka! regulars – Ian Douglas storyteller, showman Gacko and the purplehaired Professor Pumpernickel; plus, lots of other very special guest performers and hands-on workshops that you won’t want to miss! Don’t forget when you pay once, you can play as many times as you want for the whole year! The summer holidays are a great time to take advantage of your Eureka! annual pass, go and see what different things they have on offer every single day. Events will run from Saturday 22nd July to Sunday 3rd September. All tickets must be pre-booked online. W: book.eureka.org.uk/play

THERE’S LOADS TO DO THIS SUMMER HOLIDAY!

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: Loadstodo.co.uk

Manchester’s children and young people have been working hard all year and to celebrate their dedication and resolve, the Council wants to make sure there are plenty of ways for them to stay stimulated and have fun during the summer holidays. Whether you’re looking for activities for younger children or older young people, there’s something for everyone on Loads to Do. Let’s have a great summer this year, making new friends, learning new skills, and most importantly having fun!

W: www.loadstodo.co.uk/schoolhols

ENTERTAINMENT GUARANTEED, RAIN OR SHINE, AT ELIZABETH GASKELL’S HOUSE

Rain or shine, indoor or outdoor, Elizabeth Gaskell’s House in Manchester has a summer of trails and games for all the family. Outdoor you can explore the historic garden on the garden trail by scanning the QR codes and have a go at some Victorian family games like croquet and skittles. Inside the Victorian House the much-loved Cranford the Cat Trail takes children on a tour of the house, with puzzles, cats to spot and games to play along the way. Plus, there’s dressing up for all ages and a ‘do touch’ policy in much of the House. Under 16s free with a paying adult. W: www.elizabethgaskellhouse.co.uk

THE GREAT FROGTASTIC INVENTION TRAIL LEAPS INTO STOCKPORT

Following the awesome success of Stockport’s previous Frog Art trails, a brand-new trail of ‘Frogtastic Invention’ frogs will be hopping onto their giant cogs across the town centre. 19 frogs, sponsored by local businesses and organisations, each representing an invention and designed and painted by local artists, will create a vibrant and fun outdoor art trail for everyone to enjoy, and visitors may well learn something new along the way! Go online to read about the Frogtastic Invention Frogs, download a map and plan your day out! Maps will also be available to pick up from shops around the town centre. W: www.stockportfrogs.co.uk

SCHOOL’S DEFINITELY OUT FOR SUMMER AT MERSEYBAY

Families are guaranteed a trip to the beach this summer as Merseybay returns to Stockport. Featuring deckchairs for parents to sit back and relax, and buckets and spades for kids to play, the beach will be located outside Primark at Merseyway Shopping Centre from Friday 28th July until Sunday 3rd September, along with a variety of fun rides including a Helter Skelter and trampolines. Free to use and open to children of all ages, Merseybay will host weekly events each Wednesday on the beach from 11am-3pm, where children can dance along with live DJs and take part in party games. Don’t forget to visit the Beach Huts, where families can enjoy a variety of seaside favourites including fish and chips and candyfloss. W: www.merseyway.com

Senior School Open Events

Saturday 23rd September

Saturday 11th November

Junior School Open Event

Saturday 23rd September

Sixth Form Open Evening

Tuesday 10th October

Book online for open events

School Day Tours available

Hope Mill Theatre

WHAT’S ON WHEN

Fun and inclusive Musical Theatre training is now also available for ages 2-18 on Sundays. Learn to sing, dance, and act with the team behind one of Manchester’s award-winning theatres.

W: hopemilltheatre.co.uk

There’s Loads to Do this summer!

ONGOING

Power UP

Play the very best video games from the past five decades from Pong to Pacman, Mario to Minecraft, plus a selection of games created in Manchester. Face off against friends and families in multiplayer showdowns, rediscover your childhood favourites and test out some of the latest virtual reality experiences. Weekends and school holidays. Adult £8, senior £7, child/concession £6. Family discounts available. Science and Industry Museum. W: scienceandindustrymuseum.org.uk

Dino Falls

Manchester’s biggest adventure golf course - Dino Falls Adventure Golf features 36 holes of prehistoric fun! Experience two 18-hole outdoor courses and spot the famous T-Rex, mischievous Triceratops, fun selfie points, a volcanic eruption and trick shot opportunities! Open seven days a week 7am-10.30pm. W: www.dinofalls.co.uk

Summer at Bents Garden and Home

Discover an abundance of ideas to keep the little ones moving and their minds active. The fun extends from the Outdoor Play Area and Covered Beach to the beauty of Weeping Ash Garden, where a host of friendly fairies and dinosaurs are waiting to be discovered. There are crafting activities, storytime picnics and not forgetting the 18 hole Jurassic Cove Adventure Golf Course. Bents, Glazebury, Warrington. W: www.bents.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!

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!

W: loadstodo.co.uk/schoolhols

Stephen Hawking at Work

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

W: scienceandindustrymuseum.org.uk

The Curious Treehouse Adventure

Enter a magical world at BeWILDerWood Cheshire this summer. Book online.

W: www.BeWILDerWood.co.uk

The Climbing Hangar

TCH specialises in bouldering, this fun activity helps kids to build strength, agility, balance, and co-ordination. Book a family session or join a holiday club, where kids climb under the supervision of a friendly and qualified coach. Sutherland St, Sheffield.

W: www.theclimbinghangar.com/ SheffieldFamily

Our Fragile Space

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

Telescope Talks

Jodrell Bank is an amazing, unique, and awe-inspiring place made famous by its big dish – the Lovell Telescope. Be a curious earthling and hear from the Explainers about why it is here and what it does. Talks last approximately 30 minutes and take place at various times throughout the day. Included in admission. Everyday throughout the summer. Jodrell Bank. W: www.jodrellbank.net

Trafford Treetops at TraffordCity

Experience the exhilaration of Trafford Treetop Adventures – a 25-obstacle & zipline challenge located at the Trafford Centre. W: peak.co.uk

Solar Observing

Find out the difference between a Sun Spot and a Solar Flare. Through the magic of telescopes, join an expert who’ll take you on a guided tour of the Sun! Weather dependent - available on sunny days in the school holidays. Included in admission. Jodrell Bank. W: www.jodrellbank.net

BBC 100

Celebrate 100 years of the BBC in Manchester with a display that showcases Manchester as a centre of innovation in broadcasting, from 1922 to the present, and looking to the future. W: scienceandindustrymuseum.org.uk

Stoller Hall at Chetham’s

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 pre-schoolers and their grown-ups on an interactive musical journey. W: stollerhall.com

Textiles Gallery

Find out how cotton transformed the 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. scienceandindustrymuseum.org.uk

Children and War

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

W: www.iwm.org.uk

Experiment

Get hands on and see science brought to life in the free interactive gallery designed for the whole family to enjoy together. Test your senses and flex your superpowers, experience heat vision and see if you are strong enough to lift a car! Science and Industry Museum, Manchester.

W: scienceandindustrymuseum.org.uk

Corn Exchange Manchester

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

W: www.cornexchangemanchester.co.uk

Trafford Golf Centre

Home to the nation’s premiere golf Academy and the leading American Golf retail store in the North. An inclusive, family-friendly venue. Open seven days, 7am-10.30pm.

W: traffordgolfcentre.co.uk

The Revolution Manchester Show

Enjoy an action-packed show that tells the story of how science met industry in Manchester. Head to the website or pick up an event sheet when you arrive to check show times for the day. Manchester Science and Industry Museum.

W: scienceandindustrymuseum.org.uk

Graystone Action Sports

Graystone is the home of action sports with activities for everyone including; scooter, skateboarding, BMX, trampolining, freestyle gymnastics and bouldering. The expert coaches offer coaching in every sport. The birthday parties and ‘Camp Graystone’ holiday camps are the best in town!

W: www.graystoneactionsports.co.uk

Summer Fun at Elizabeth

Gaskell’s House

Rain or shine, indoor or outdoor, Elizabeth Gaskell’s House in Manchester has a summer of trails and games for all the family. Under 16s free with a paying adult. W: elizabethgaskellhouse.co.uk

JULY

Friday 7th

Professor Pumpernickel Science Show

Running 7th-9th July. Eureka! Science + Discovery. W: www.eureka.org.uk

Friday 14th

The Great Mandavi

Fire juggler, street performer & entertainer extraordinaire. 11amwalkabout plus 25min shows at 1pm, 2pm and 3pm. Eureka! Science + Discovery. W: www.eureka.org.uk

Monday 17th

Activate Camps

Inspiring childcare camp through the medium of sport, cooking and multi activity. Coaching is always age appropriate and the camp is Ofsted registered. Cheadle Hulme School. W: www.stockport.gov.uk

Thursday 20th

Bluedot

Cheshire’s multi award-winning carnival of music, science and cosmic culture. Families can enjoy a host of exciting and interactive entertainment from Our Kids Social Silent Disco, Pop-Up Puppet Cinema, and the ever popular Jedi Lightsaber training. Running until 23rd July at Jodrell Bank. W: www.jodrellbank.net

Friday 21st

Summer Daze

Lose yourself at Trafford Centre’s Summer Daze event this summer from 21st July-3rd September. There are endless hours of fun to be had, with fairground rides, giant beach, splash park, tasty treats and more!

W: traffordcentre.co.uk

The Great Frogtastic Invention Trail

This summer a brand-new trail of ‘Frogtastic Invention’ frogs will be hopping onto their giant cogs across the town centre, creating an educational, vibrant, and fun free outdoor art trail for everyone to enjoy over the summer holidays. Running until 29th September in Stockport. W: www.stockportfrogs.co.uk

Saturday 22nd

Operation Ouch!

Food, Poo, and You

Dive headfirst into the digestive system for an unforgettable journey of super-sized science with this brand-new blockbuster exhibition, which brings the hit BBC children’s TV series to life. Find out more about the incredible world of our brilliant bodies with a summer long programme of free family fun. Running until 3rd September. Science and Industry Museum. W: scienceandindustrymuseum.org.uk

Eureka!

Eureka! Science + Discovery is a brand-new attraction, housed in the Seacombe Ferry Terminal building, that has been created with and for children and young people aged 0-14. . Events will run from 22nd July-3rd September. All tickets must be pre-booked online. W: www.eureka.org.uk

Aardman Presents: Lloyd of the Flies

Have fun this summer at RHS Garden Bridgewater go on an excellent adventure with Aardman’s Lloyd of the Flies. Download a special augmented reality app developed by Aardman to ‘shrink down’ to fly size and see the world through insect eyes. Zoolab will have hands-on animal encounters. Running until 3rd September. W: www.rhs.org.uk

Monday 24th

Journey Through the Night Sky

Bottoms on seats, heads in the stars! Stare into space and be guided through the night sky during the planetarium astronomy talks. Show time 12, lasts 45 mins. Suitable for astronauts aged 10+. Tickets £4/ £6, available as an add-on to general admission. Jodrell Bank. W: www.jodrellbank.net

Friday 28th

Visit Merseybay!

Merseybay returns to Stockport. Featuring deckchairs for parents to sit back and relax, and buckets and spades for kids to play, the beach will be located outside Primark at Merseyway Shopping, with a variety of fun rides including a Helter Skelter and trampolines. Free to use and open to children of all ages, Merseybay will host weekly events each Wednesday on the beach from 11am-3pm. Running until 3rd September.

W: www.merseyway.com

Saturday 29th

Manchester Day

– On Holiday

Pack your bags ManchesterManchester Day is taking you on holiday! A special summer’s day to captivate families and friends alike. Be entertained by performers, skilful musicians, and a menagerie of surprising animals. Marvel as the city’s streets come alive with entertainment, tunes, dance moves and wonderful shows. 12noon-9pm. Free.

W: manchester.gov.uk/ manchesterday

AUGUST

Tuesday 1st

IKEA’s Summer Funhouse

Visit IKEA Manchester over the school holidays to enjoy a host of free arts and crafts, games and competitions. Plus, kids can eat for just 95p! W: www.IKEA.co.uk/events

Wednesday 26th

Magical Story Jars®

Magical Story Jars® provide an opportunity to make fun imaginary stories using colourful story prompt cards. Two x 2hour drop-in sessions. Eureka Science and Discovery. W: www.eureka.org.uk

Trafford Palazzo

Summer Carnival

The family fun-filled month will offer a range of free activities, such as dance schools, circus workshops, crafts, and a variety of food vendors. It’s open to all ages for everyone to enjoy this summer. W: traffordpalazzo.co.uk

Saturday 5th

Day Out with Thomas

Take a trip on Sodor’s number one tank engine and meet Sir Topham Hatt on this spectacular day out with Thomas. It’s all aboard the famous blue steam train for a magical ride on Thomas the Tank Engine at the East Lancashire Railway. Also on 6th August.

W: www.eastlancsrailway.org.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!

Monday 7th

Roald Dahl Week

Let the kids sing, dance and act to the Roald Dahl favourites this summer. Urmston Stagecoach is running a summer week for ages 4-16, at Wellfield Junior School. Wraparound care options are available. W: www.stagecoach.co.uk/urmston

Friday 11th

Travel to Wonderland

Your adventure includes a steam train ride from Bury to Rawtenstall and back, a roughly two-hour Wonderland experience with colourful characters, themed activities, and plenty of photo opportunities. East Lancashire Railway. Also on 1st September. W: www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

Friday 18th

The Dino Adventure Entertaining and educational experience for children aged 5-12 who can learn all about dinosaurs, a return train trip on a dino steam train is included. East Lancashire Railway. W: www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

Thursday 24th

Hey Duggee Family Fun Day

Join Duggee as he explores the Bury Transport Museum! The family fun continues with a selection of fun fair rides, face painting and craft activities. Complete your day out with a ride with one of the heritage steam or diesel trains through the Irwell Valley. Also on 25th August. Book tickets online. W: www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

Thursday 31st

Peppa Pig Family Fun Day

Meet Peppa and George and enjoy story time at intervals throughout the day in the fantastic Bury Transport Museum, you can also take part in Peppa Pig’s Hide & Seek activity trail! The family fun continues with a selection of fun fair rides, face painting and a petting farm. Complete your day out with a ride on the heritage steam or diesel trains. W: www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

LOOKING AHEAD

13th December –

6th January 2024

Lost and Found

Factory International are taking us on epic journey to the South Pole in a heart-warming adaptation of Oliver Jeffers’ award-winning children’s story, Lost and Found. This magical tale of one boy’s quest to help a lost penguin find its way home, arrives in Manchester. Tickets available now at factoryinternational.org

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!

LOSE THE KIDS DOWN A BLACK HOLE. THEN

Book in advance and visit again, free of charge, for the rest of the year. Book today. jodrellbank.net

DO IT ALL OVER AGAIN.

FAMILY THEATRE GUIDE

THE LOWRY SALFORD

www.thelowry.com

Saturday 22nd July –

Monday 1st January 2024

JULIA AND AXELTHIRTY YEARS OF FAVOURITE STORIES

A new free family-friendly exhibition celebrating the acclaimed partnership between Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, who have created some of the world’s best-loved, and best-selling children’s books.

Thursday 3rd –

Friday 4th August

CIRQUE THE GREATEST SHOW

An all-star cast performing the big, big numbers from your favourite shows are joined by mesmerising circus stars – making for an enchanting production that is charming and astonishing in equal measure.

Friday 4th August –

Sunday 3rd September

ZOG

The smash-hit stage adaptation from Freckle Productions is back and promises to be bigger, brighter and more roar-some than ever before! With lively songs from Joe Stilgoe and directed by Emma Kilbey; Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved Zog is a magical production for all ages.

31st August – 2nd September

HEY DUGGEE

Featuring Duggee, the Squirrels plus many more of your favourite characters!

THE PALACE THEATRE MANCHESTER

www.manchestertheatres.com

Tuesday 11th – Sundy 30th July

CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY

Escape to a world of pure imagination with Roald Dahl’s Charlie and The Chocolate Factory – The Musical.

Hope Mill Theatre School

WEEKLY CLASSES

ANNUAL WEEK-LONG SUMMER SCHOOL

REGULAR PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES

MANCHESTER OPERA HOUSE

www.manchestertheatres.com

Monday 24th –

Wednesday 26th July

WINNIE THE POOH

Disney’s iconic Winnie the Pooh, Christopher Robin and their best friends Piglet, Eeyore, Kanga, Roo, Rabbit and Owl have come to life in a beautifully crafted musical stage adaptation.

Tuesday 1st –

Saturday 12th August

SHREK THE MUSICAL

Based on the Oscar winning DreamWorks film, the Broadway and West End smash hit Shrek the Musical is a fun filled and hilarious musical comedy with a cast of vibrant characters and a ‘shrektacular’ score.

THE MET BURY

www.themet.org.uk

Thursday 20th July

SPLASH TEST DUMMIES

With a brilliant array of catchyour-breath stunt work, dazzling acrobatics, dexterous juggling and side-splitting, slapstick comedy, the Dummies are ready to roll out their beach towels and spring into an exciting hour of circus-filled hilarity for the whole family.

www.stockportplaza.co.uk

Sunday 9th July

HORRIBLE HISTORIES

–

BARMY BRITAIN

Barmy Britain is back with the hit West End show, full of crazy new characters and rude new rulers from Britain’s barmy past!

Saturday 22nd July

HASBRO STARS LIVE ON STAGE!

See your favourite TV Stars perform together live on stage.

Saturday 9th September

HERITAGE OPEN DAY

Stockport’s 1932 Super Cinema and Variety Theatre throws open her doors at 11am as part of the National Heritage Open Days for a full day of free to attend events and an opportunity for you to investigate behind the scenes of the much-loved Art Deco gem.

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!

To enter the competition please email to competitions@primarytimesmag.com When you enter make sure you give us your name, address, email, age and school. Closing date Sunday 30th July Please note: Primary Times will only use your details to contact the competition winners.

Musical Theatre Training for ages 2-18

A FUN, INCLUSIVE & WELCOMING SETTING TO LEARN TO

SING, DANCE & ACT

Scan here for more details

FULLY FUNDED PLACES AVAILABLE

WIN 4 TICKETS TO SEE ZOG ON STAGE AT THE LOWRY

Lovers of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s stories have the chance to win four tickets to see one of their well-loved characters Zog in a sensational summer production at The Lowry!

This brilliant stage adaptation runs from 4th August3rd September and promises plenty of fun, roars and lively songs and is a magical production for all ages. To win four tickets, simply send in your entry marked ‘Zog’ and you shall be placed into our prize draw. Closing date is Sunday 30th July.

Boys do better at Burnage

Our results speak for themselves – in 2022 our boys achieved higher grades than they would have at any other state school in the north of England.

However we offer far more than academic success, with a strong focus on enrichment, personal development and pastoral care.

TO TO DO DO

LOADS LOADS SUMMER SUMMER

Sing, play, make... there are loads of activities for all ages of young people this summer.

There’s loads to do at loads to do. co . uk /schoolhols