FREE MAGAZINE: WHAT’S ON WHERE GUIDE 40,550 COPIES FOR FAMILIES OF PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN BACK TO SCHOOL ISSUE 91 4TH SEPTEMBER - 8TH OCTOBER 2023 www.primarytimes.co.uk DAYS OUT • WHAT’S ON • THEATRE GUIDE • FAMILY FUN Merseyside
HELLO READERS!
With summer all wrapped up, we hope you’ve had a relaxing and enjoyable time over the break and are ready for the exciting new school year to come! For those of you starting school for the first time, it is a significant milestone in your child’s (and your) life. It is the beginning of their new independence and while it may seem daunting, in a relatively short time, rest assured that children and their grown-ups adjust well to the new routine!
You’ll receive our magazine regularly throughout the school year - we are a “what’s on and where to go” guide, listing child friendly events and activities, local news updates and great competitions. Primary Times will be popped into your child’s book bag just before each holiday, packed full of fun, family-friendly destinations to help plan the entertainment during school breaks! In this issue, as well as great family days out for autumn and theatre performances to look forward to, you’ll find the latest news from local secondary schools for those of you planning the next steps for your Year 6 children. Finally, it’s worth visiting our website www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside to take advantage of extra competitions and special offers. We’ll see you again before the October half term, and until then, we wish you all a happy and successful start to the new school year.
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CONTENTS 4 LOCAL KNOWLEDGE 6 AUTUMN DAYS OUT 2023 8 WHAT’S ON WHEN 10 EDUCATION WATCH 14 FAMILY THEATRE GUIDE Primary Times is independently published and distributed free through primary schools in Merseyside. It aims to inform families and children about current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses, attractions and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding to its contents or by joining in the competitions. It is NOT our intention to publish any racist, sexist or politically based material whatsoever. We also undertake not to carry any advertising which we would consider to be offensive to young families or harmful to the best interests of young children. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in Merseyside for their assistance in distributing the magazine and for their contributions to its contents. We would also like to thank all the advertisers who have supported this publication and therefore made it possible. Please support their endeavours when and where you can. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with Primary Times or with the relevant contributor. Primary Times is currently publishing over 2 million copies per issue under franchise licences throughout the UK. Primary Times Merseyside is operated under franchise licence. Published by Moonscape Media Ltd • T: 0118 972 4980 • E: office@primarytimesmag.com Editor: Michelle Dilger • Production: Nathan Pretlove & Louise Fry • Advertising: Kerry Beardsmore Listings Editor: Suzanne Watson • Features Editor: Helen Chitham This magazine is audited by BPA
MEMBER
3 BACK TO SCHOOL ISSUE 2023 Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside for thousands more great days out
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issueNextout October 9th
STUDY FOR AN INNOVATIVE TEACHING QUALIFICATION WHILE WORKING WITH LJMU
Liverpool John Moores University’s Learning Development and Support degree provides professionals, such as teaching assistants, nursery staff and mentors who work in an educational setting, an opportunity to study for a part-time qualification while working. This course can be studied flexibly, with teaching sessions on Saturdays enabling you to work and study to a timetable that suits you. Graduate, Dawn commented: “The course opened my eyes to a variety of educational topics relevant to my job role, providing me with the knowledge and skills required to do it more effectively. I now feel equipped and empowered to explore a career which involves supporting ‘vulnerable’ children.” Find out more by visiting the LJMU website and book yourself on to an open day in Liverpool.
W: www.ljmu.ac.uk
AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE WITH SLEEPING BEAUTY AT M & S BANK ARENA
This Christmas, you’re invited to the pantomime of your dreams, Sleeping Beauty at The Auditorium - M&S Bank Arena, Liverpool. Starring Reality TV Star & Model Katie Price as Carabosse, Comedy Star Bippo as The Castle Clown, Britain’s Got Talent Finalist Lucy Kay as The Fairy, and the hilarious Andy Brennan as Queen FiFi of Fazakerley. Once upon a time in a Pantoland far, far away, a beautiful princess is cursed by the evil Carabosse by pricking her finger on a spinning wheel. Thanks to The Fairy, Sleeping Beauty falls into a deep sleep that can only be broken by her one true love. Will the handsome prince come to her rescue and save the day? Don’t miss this year’s spectacular pantomime featuring great songs, dazzling dance routines and spectacular special effects. It will be an unforgettable experience for children and adults alike.
Book your tickets now for this magical adventure at mandsbankarena.com
GIVE YOUR CHILD THE CONFIDENCE TO SUCCEED
First Class Learning specialises in providing tuition programmes aligned to the National Curriculum for students in Key Stage 1 to Key Stage 4, with a particular focus on Maths, English and Science. At First Class Learning Aintree, they understand the importance of nurturing not just their students’ academic skills, but also their mindset. That’s why they’re there to support you to get the perfect balance: a winning mindset for your child, and peace of mind for you as parents. Call Ellie on 07858 404828 or email aintree@firstclasslearning.co.uk and quote Primary Times for a discount offer. Let your child be their next success story!
IT ’S TIME FOR AN EXCITING NEW ADVENTURE!
Heading back to school is exciting and nerve-wracking too with lots to organise - uniforms, books, backpacks and more. Tick another thing off your list and sort your travel with Stagecoach Bus. With services in and around Merseyside and dedicated school routes, it’s time to get back to school for less! You can find out more on their website, www.stagecoachbus. com/promos-and-offers/merseyside-and-south-lancashire/ school-bus-services or download the App today. Get back to school with Stagecoach Bus Today!
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE FOR PARENTS & TEACHERS 4 Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside for thousands more great days out BACK TO SCHOOL ISSUE 2023 Quote ‘Primary Times’ for a discount offer
5 BACK TO SCHOOL ISSUE 2023 Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside for thousands more great days out LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
While daylight hours are getting shorter, the fun doesn’t have to stop! There are still some great activities going on, so grab a jumper and head out for a family day out and make the most of the new, picturesque season to come.
DAY OUT WITH THOMAS
Join the East Lancashire Railway for spectacular family fun on a Day Out with Thomas!
On 30th September and 1st October, go and meet Sir Topham Hatt and cheeky station sweepers Rusty and Dusty in Bury before taking a ride with Thomas the Tank Engine himself. Complete your day with Thomas themed games and activities, fun fair rides, balloon modellers, singing, dancing and much more. Tickets must be purchased in advance. To find out more, and to book tickets, visit them online. Thomas and friends will be waiting for you!
T: 0333 320 2830 W: www.eastlancsrailway.co.uk
FAMILY CONCERT: FAMILY FILM FAVOURITES WITH THE ROYAL LIVERPOOL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA
Lights, camera, action! The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra has got superstar musicians, an A-list presenter and completing the cast… it’s you! Join the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and host Alasdair Malloy for a celebration of soundtracks from some of the best-loved family films of all time. From Star Wars to Harry Potter, Encanto to Frozen, they’re stepping into the magic of the movies through music and bringing Hollywood’s finest to Liverpool. They’ll roll out the red carpet - just meet them at the Hall in your favourite film character fancy dress and get ready to sing along! The performance is on Sunday 22nd October at 2.30pm, go online for more details and to book tickets.
W: www.liverpoolphil.com
THE FRIGHTFULLY GOOD SPOOKY WELLY WALK IS BACK!
Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation are casting spells all over Sefton Park on 21st October at Merseyside’s favourite Halloween event. With over 25 exciting Trick or Treat Stations for children to explore, there are plenty of opportunities to let their imaginations run wild!
Whether it’s Creepy Crafts, Freaky Fun Fair, Monster Mash or taking your chance in the Yucky Dip, there’s plenty of fun to be had. Pick your best costumes and join them to kickstart your Halloween!
Tickets are only £6 per person or £20 for a family of four. Book early as tickets will sell out!
W: www.roycastle.org/spooky
ENJOY A DAY IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS AND GRAB YOUR PERFECT PUMPKIN!
Head off for pumpkin fun this season at The Pumpkin Patch Hightown! Find your perfect pumpkins across their acres of homegrown pumpkin fields for a wholesome family outing this October. Open 9am to 6pm daily from 1st to 31st October, you can pick your own pumpkins & sweetcorn, get lost in the free maize maze and enjoy lots of photo opportunities. They’re famous for their giant pumpkins, so borrow a wheelbarrow, don your wellies and see what amazing pumpkins you can find! No booking necessary and there’s no admission charge!
Find them on Orrell Hill Lane, Hightown, L38 5DA. Insta: @thepumpkinpatchhightown
AUTUMN DAYS OUT 2023
6 Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside for thousands more great days out BACK TO SCHOOL ISSUE 2023 FREE ADMISSION
INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION OF CONSERVATIONISTS AT CHESTER ZOO
Chester Zoo is a leading conservation and education charity, committed to empowering the conservationists of tomorrow. With over 27,000 animals, as well as workshops, outreach programmes, activities, toolkits and resources, there’s tons of different ways to connect your pupils with the natural world at the zoo. Chester Zoo’s brand new, purpose built Conservation Education Hub has opened ready for the new school year this September and features three large classroom spaces, an open reception area and a digital studio. If you book and visit in 2023, you’ll also receive a FREE animal adoption for your school!
W: www.chesterzoo.org
HEAD TO AINTREE RACECOURSE FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE HALLOWEEN FAMILY FUN DAY!
Get ready for a spook-tacular experience filled with thrills and excitement for all ages at Aintree Racecourse on Sunday 29th October. With FREE entry and entertainment for children, it will be a fabulous day to remember! The talented face painters will transform little ones into their favourite spooky creatures, while eerie characters roam the racecourse, adding an extra dose of excitement plus many more spooky surprises! Dress up in your best Halloween costumes and prepare for a day of magic and enchantment. Get your best price tickets online now!
W: www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/aintree
7 BACK TO SCHOOL ISSUE 2023 Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside for thousands more great days out AUTUMN DAYS OUT 2023
WHAT’S ON WHEN
ONGOING
The Climbing Hangar
TCH specialises in bouldering, this fun activity helps kids to build strength, agility, balance, and co-ordination. Best of all, parents/ guardians can climb right alongside them. Book a family session or join a holiday club, where kids climb under the supervision of a friendly and qualified coach. Liverpool has two Hangar centres, each with a wide variety of climbs, drinks, and goodies.
W: theclimbinghangar.com/ LiverpoolFamily
Julia and Axel - thirty years of favourite stories
A free family-friendly exhibition at The Lowry; 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. Running until 1st January 2024.
W: www.thelowry.com
Fairy Tales
An interactive world of play and storytelling. For 0-8-year-olds and their grown-ups. Step into a fairy tale town and through the woods to discover a world of giants, palaces, gingerbread houses and treasure caves. Z Arts, Manchester.
T: 0161 2261912 W: z-arts.org
Sink your teeth into an amazing Shark Experience
When you enter the immersive world of Planet Shark: Predator or Prey at Chester Zoo, you’ll be surrounded by incredible underwater projections featuring stunning footage that tells the story of how important sharks are to our oceans, and the planet. Running until 31st October.
W: www.chesterzoo.org
The New Way To Discover Port Sunlight
Find out the history of this special village at Port Sunlight Museum, experience what life was like over a century ago in the Edwardian Worker’s Cottage, and immerse yourself in the story of soap at the interactive SoapWorks.
W: www.portsunlightvillage.com
Return of the Gods
Discover the stories of the original influencers, the Olympian Gods, and a world where they were a part of everyday life. Enter their mythical world and explore the lives, loves and legacies of the Ancient Greek and Roman Gods, in the epic exhibition Return of the Gods at World Museum, Liverpool. Book online. Members and under 17 years old go free.
W: liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
St David’s College
St David’s College is a mainstream co-educational independent school for children aged 9 to 19. The award-winning school is set in a 30acre Tudor Estate, nestled between Snowdonia National Park and the North Wales coastline. For more information, visit www.stdavidscollege.co.uk
Boulder Hut
Boulder Hut is a premium climbing wall for all ages and abilities. Play area for 1-4 year olds with games, a play tunnel and loads of tactile holds to help learning and balance. For bigger kids, the Boulder Zoo for 2-10 year olds has a slide and plenty of intriguing challenges to keep them busy for hours. Unit 1, Olympic Park, Poole Hall Road, Ellesmere Port.
W: www.boulderhut.com
Experiment
Get hands on and see science brought to life in the free interactive gallery designed for the whole family to enjoy together. Science and Industry Museum, Manchester. W: www.scienceandindustry museum.org.uk
Liverpool FC Stadium Tours
Go behind the scenes on the unmissable and immersive LFC Stadium Tour and enjoy epic views of the Anfield pitch and city landscape from the top level of the Main Stand. Visit the state-of-the-art Home Team dressing room and practice your interview technique in the Press Room. Tickets include entry to the Club’s interactive museum
The Liverpool FC Story, with over 130 years of Club history plus all the silverware including all six European trophies.
W: www.liverpoolfc.com
The Revolution Manchester Show
Enjoy an action-packed show that tells the story of how science met industry in Manchester. Manchester Science and Industry Museum.
W: www.scienceandindustry museum.org.uk
It’s Time for a new Adventure!
Give your child the confidence to succeed
First Class Learning specialises in providing tuition programmes aligned to the National Curriculum for students in Key Stage 1 to Key Stage 4, with a particular focus on maths, English, and science. Call Ellie on 07858404828 or email aintree@firstclasslearning. co.uk and quote Primary Times for a discount offer.
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
SEPTEMBER
Friday 8th
firstclasslearning.co.uk/aintree/
Heading back to school is exciting and nerve-wracking too with lots to organise. Tick another thing off your list and sort your travel with Stagecoach Bus. With services in and around Merseyside and dedicated school routes, it’s time to get back to school for less! Check online or download the App. W: www.stagecoachbus.com
Heritage
Open
Days in Port Sunlight
Join a fascinating talk and tour of Port Sunlight’s historic Gladstone Theatre, explore Bridge Cottage and step back to wartime Port Sunlight inside the Church Hall to join in family activities and meet people in costume. Also on 9th and 11th September. Free.
W: www.portsunlightvillage.com
Belvedere Academy Open Morning
An Open Morning for Parents and Carers from 9am to 10.30am. Step into the vibrant, happy learning community and discover firsthand the outstanding facilities that nurture creativity, innovation, and excellence. No pre-booking required.
W: www.belvedereacademy.net
Saturday 9th
Fun Dog Show at the Farm
Ten novelty classes including Saddest Eyes, Waggiest Tail and Scruffiest Dog, plus a fun agility course (try it if you’re fit enough!).
‘Show Champion’ trophy to be won and rosettes awarded up to 6th place. Tatton Park Farm.
W: www.tattonpark.org.uk
8 Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside for thousands more great days out BACK TO SCHOOL ISSUE 2023
FAMILY LIFE
Morse Code Challenge - An Interactive Music Session
Get hands on in an interactive music session and test your skills at decoding messages that were sent from the Titanic as the ship was sinking! Suitable for children and adults of all ages. Maritime Museum, Royal Albert Dock.
W: www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
Southport Air Show
Head to Southport Beach, under an hour on the train from Liverpool, for the annual Air Show for a weekend packed with entertainment. Running 9th-10th September.
W: www.visitliverpool.com
Sunday 10th
Liverpool ONE Dog Show
Your furry friend will show the judges what they can do by parading to an audience on Chavasse Park for the chance to win amazing prizes including a Liverpool ONE Gift Card and doggy treats!
W: www.liverpool-one.com
Thursday 14th
Kirkby High School Open Evening
The Kirkby School open evening runs from 6-8.30pm. They are also hosting open mornings on 12th and 13th September from 9-11am.
T: 0151 477 8710
E: admin@kirkbyhighschool.net
Friday 15th
Bennetts British Superbike Championship
Running 15th and 16th September at Oulton Park.
W: www.oultonpark.co.uk
Saturday 16th
Wildlife Connections Festival
Chester Zoo have two jam-packed days filled with wild activities, enthralling performances and amazing speakers that will have you captivated by the wildlife found right on our doorstep. Enjoy live music on stage throughout the day from local artists. All performances, activities and workshops are FREE to watch and take part in! Cold refreshments will be available to purchase at the festival (cash only). Also on 17th September.
W: www.chesterzoo.org
Thursday 21st
St Julie’s Open Evening
St Julie’s Catholic High school is a popular and vibrant learning community where academic excellence is standard and traditional values shape the delivery of a curriculum that is innovative and exciting. To find out more about a place for your daughter, visit www.stjulies.org.uk or meet the staff and students at the open evening from 4-6pm.
Friday 22nd
The British Musical Fireworks Championship
A pyrotechnic, musical extravaganza! The competition runs from Friday 22nd to Saturday 23rd September in Victoria Park, Southport.
W: www.visitsouthport.com
Saturday 23rd
Border Force Family DayAnimals in Danger
Enter the world of the Customs officer - a dark and unseen world of smuggling, intrigue, and danger, where things are not always what they seem! Maritime Museum, Royal Albert Dock.
W: www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
Thursday 28th
Rainford High Open Evening
Don’t miss Rainford High’s open evening on Thursday 28th September from 6pm until 8pm. Staff and current students will warmly welcome prospective pupils and their families into the state-ofthe-art school.
W: rainford.org.uk
Saturday 30th
Harvest Festival
Experience the joy of harvest season at Tatton Park’s Farm. 11am-4pm. Also on 1st October. Tatton Park Farm.
W: www.tattonpark.org.uk
Day Out with Thomas
OCTOBER
Sunday 1st
The Pumpkin Patch Hightown!
Join the East Lancashire Railway for spectacular family fun on a Day Out with Thomas! Meet Sir Topham
Hatt and cheeky station sweepers Rusty and Dusty in Bury before taking a ride with Thomas the Tank Engine himself. Complete your day with Thomas themed games and activities, fun fair rides, balloon modellers, singing, dancing and much more. Also on Sunday 1st October. Tickets must be purchased in advance.
W: www.eastlancsrailway.co.uk
Billy’s Musical Voyage
Join Billy the sailor and have a go at playing the musical instruments they discovered when visiting different countries on a worldwide voyage! This is an interactive music session aimed at families and young children. Drop-in sessions from 11am, 1pm, 2pm & 3pm. Maritime Museum, Royal Albert Dock.
W: www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
Flower Fairies: Family Art Club
A painting workshop with a twist! In this inventive mixed media session, families will learn how to use ordinary household ingredients and materials to produce beautiful painting techniques and textures. Lady Lever Art Gallery, Port Sunlight Village.
W: www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
Mid-Autumn (Moon) Festival
An event for all visitors with Liverpool Confucius Institute to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival. Join in with crafts and traditional dance and music performances. World Museum, Liverpool.
W: www.liverpoolmuseums.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!
Find your perfect pumpkins across the acres of home-grown pumpkin fields for a wholesome family outing this October. Open 9am to 6pm every day this month. Pick your own pumpkins and sweetcorn, get lost in the free maize maze and enjoy the many photo opportunities. No booking necessary and no admission charge. Orrell Hill Lane, Hightown, L38 5DA. Insta: @thepumpkinpatchhightown
Saturday 14th
Craft at the MuseumJoseph Johnson’s Hat
Joseph Johnson was a Black sailor who lived 200 years ago. When he was unfairly deprived of his pension in the early 19th century, Joseph became a familiar sight in London when, he modelled a fantastic ‘ship hat’ in which he would perform nautical songs around London docklands in order to earn money. Maritime Museum, Royal Albert Dock. W: www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
Saturday 21st
Spooky Welly Walk
Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation are casting spells all over Sefton Park at Merseyside’s favourite Halloween event. With over 25 exciting Trick or Treat Stations for children to explore, letting their imaginations run wild. Pick your best costumes and join them to kickstart your Halloween! Tickets: £6 per person or £20 for a family of four. Book online.
W: www.roycastle.org/spooky
Sunday 29th
Halloween
Family Fun Day
Get ready for a spook-tacular experience filled with thrills and excitement for all ages at Aintree Racecourse. With free entry and entertainment for children, make it a day to remember!
W: www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/aintree
9 BACK TO SCHOOL ISSUE 2023 Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside for thousands more great days out FAMILY LIFE
MAXIMISING OUR POTENTIAL - A MISSION TO HELP STUDENTS THRIVE AT KIRKBY
HIGH SCHOOL
Kirkby High School believes that they offer their young people guidance and aspiration to be the best they can be in all aspects of life. Their vision is a community driven by high expectations and mutual respect providing all individuals with the belief and opportunities to succeed now and in the future. All staff fully embrace their mission: Maximising our Potential. They believe in building a culture of resilience, kindness, respect, aspiration and confidence in which their students can thrive. These are their Kirkby Child values which are a set of core principles for students and underpin the whole school ethos.
W: www.kirkbyhighschool.net
AN OPEN MORNING FOR PARENTS AND CARERS
Visit The Belvedere Academy’s Open Morning on Friday 8th September, from 9-10.30am. Step into their vibrant, happy learning community and discover firsthand the outstanding facilities that nurture creativity, innovation, and excellence. Experience the essence of a typical morning at Belvedere and embrace the promise of a remarkable education for your child. Don’t miss this chance to embark on an exciting journey with them! There is no need to book for this event - they look forward to seeing you arrive between 9 and 10am.
W: belvedereacademy.net
Are you interested in hiring their facilities? For more information email facilities@belvedereacademy.net or visit their website belvedere.schoolhire.co.uk
SAVE THE DATE: RAINFORD HIGH’S OPEN EVENING
Don’t miss Rainford High’s open evening on Thursday 28th September from 6pm until 8pm. Staff and current students will warmly welcome prospective pupils and their families into the state-of-the-art school. Join Principal, Mr Ian Young, for introductions at 6.05pm, 6.30pm, 6.55pm, and 7.25pm in the auditorium. Then take a tour of the school’s modern facilities, witness captivating demonstrations, and talk to staff about the excellent educational and pastoral offering available to children throughout their Rainford High journey. Another date for the diary is the school’s Christmas Fayre taking place on 7 December! Get in touch to find out more.
T: 01744 885914 W: rainford.org.uk
10 Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside for thousands more great days out BACK TO SCHOOL ISSUE 2023 EDUCATION WATCH
11 BACK TO SCHOOL ISSUE 2023 Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside for thousands more great days out EDUCATION WATCH
DISCOVER WHAT ST JULIE’S COULD OFFER YOUR DAUGHTER
St Julie’s Catholic High school is a popular and vibrant learning community where academic excellence is standard and traditional values shape the delivery of a curriculum that is innovative and exciting. In recent years students have left St Julie’s Sixth Form to go to universities in places such as Liverpool, Manchester, Oxford, Cambridge, and the Royal Academy for Dramatic Art. Their 2023 Ofsted inspection judged the school to be good, with outstanding leadership and management and pupil welfare and development. To find out more about a place for your daughter, please visit their website or go and meet staff and students at their open event on Thursday 21st September from 4-6pm. W: www.stjulies.org.uk
HALL ROAD CONTINUES TO TAKE SHAPE FOR MERCHANT TAYLORS
At Merchant Taylors’ School, the development of a new sports pavilion at Hall Road continues apace. The new purpose-built pavilion will be complemented by a redesigned pitch configuration to accommodate a wide variety of sports. It will also include four changing rooms for pupils, two changing rooms for staff, a medical treatment room and a social space with modern catering facilities for pupils, parents and visitors. The construction of the external structure is now approaching completion and work is well underway to create the various internal spaces. They are excited about the positive impact this new pavilion will have on the sporting experience of their pupils, parents and visitors.
W: www.merchanttaylors.com
12 Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside for thousands more great days out BACK TO SCHOOL ISSUE 2023 EDUCATION WATCH
13 BACK TO SCHOOL ISSUE 2023 Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside for thousands more great days out EDUCATION WATCH
FAMILY THEATRE GUIDE
AO ARENA
Ao-arena.com
Wednesday 18th October
JURASSIC PARK 30TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT
This autumn the acclaimed blockbuster will be presented in venues around the country, while the film’s renowned award-winning John Williams score is performed live by a full orchestra.
THE ATKINSON
01704 533333
Saturday 23rd September
THE BUBBLE SHOW
The Bubble Show is a unique blend of magic, storytelling, science and bubble art! Enjoy bouncy bubbles, bubbles inside bubbles, smoke bubbles, square bubbles, giant bubbles, and even fire bubbles!
Tuesday 3rd October
SWAN LAKE
Crown Ballet presents to you the most famous Ballet of all time. Swan Lake is one of Tchaikovsky’s best works, featuring some of ballet’s most memorable music and breathtaking dance.
LIVERPOOL EMPIRE
www.atgtickets.com/venues/ liverpool-empire
Tuesday 17th-Saturday 21st October
PETER PAN GOES WRONG
The members of the Cornley Drama Society are back on stage, battling technical hitches, flying mishaps and cast disputes as they attempt to present J.M Barrie’s muchloved tale. But will they ever make it to Neverland?
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!
LIVERPOOL EVERYMAN AND PLAYHOUSE
www.everymanplayhouse.com
Saturday 7th October
TINY ECHOES
Using Make Mend and Do’s unique blend of puppetry, animation and music, Tiny Echoes is an enchanting performance about love, loss, space and time, that will charm audiences of all ages.
THE LOWRY
www.thelowry.com
Sunday 24th September
ANDY AND THE ODD SOCKS - THE DIAL IT UP 11 TOUR
Who are the Odd Socks? The oddest tale of Britain’s best new band!
Saturday 30th September
OLAF FALAFEL’S SUPER STUPID SHOW
Join comedian and children’s author Olaf Falafel for an hour of kid’s comedy which is now 20% more stupider than ever before.
Sunday 22nd October
WILL TELL AND THE BIG BAD BARON
This original show for families introduces a new legendary figure to British drama: the ‘Swiss Robin Hood’, Wilhelm Tell, who refused to bow to a tyrant and famously had to shoot an apple off his child’s head with a crossbow as a punishment.
Tuesday 24th-Sunday 29th October
THE SMEDS AND THE SMOOS
Soar into space with this exciting adaptation of the award-winning book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.
M AND S BANK ARENA
www.mandsbankarena.com
Sunday 17th September
BLIPPI - THE WONDERFUL WORLD TOUR
The return of the vivacious, energetic, and educational antics of global sensation Blippi.
Sunday 29th October
JURASSIC PARK 30th ANNIVERSARY CONCERT
In celebration of the triple Oscar winning Jurassic Park’s 30th anniversary. Giving audiences the chance to see the sci-fi classic like never before, the 1993 Stephen Spielberg hit will be shown in HD on big screens, accompanied by the Hallé Orchestra, one of the UK’s top symphonic ensembles, performing John Williams’ iconic score live on stage.
Saturday 2nd-Sunday 3rd December
PETER PAN
A big budget extravaganza adaptation of J.M Barrie’s much-loved tale Peter Pan flies into Liverpool this December, promising a spectacular spin on the timeless classic adventure. Fabulous animated digital sets redefine the genre with an immersive experience of magic and wonderment that even the most cynical audiences will be blown away by. Karma Chameleon Boy George Debuts as Captain Hook.
Saturday 16th-Saturday 30th December
SLEEPING BEAUTY
This Christmas, you’re invited to the pantomime of your dreams. Starring Reality TV Star & Model Katie Price as Carabosse, Comedy Star Bippo as The Castle Clown, Britain’s Got Talent Finalist Lucy Kay as The Fairy and The Hilarious Andy Brennan as Queen FiFi of Fazakerley.
ROYAL LIVERPOOL PHILHARMONIC
www.liverpoolphil.com
Sunday 22nd October
FAMILY CONCERT: FAMILY FILM FAVOURITES
Join the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and host Alasdair Malloy for a celebration of soundtracks from some of the best-loved family films of all time. From Star Wars to Harry Potter, Encanto to Frozen.
SHAKESPEARE NORTH PLAYHOUSE
www.shakespearenorthplayhouse.co.uk
Friday 24th NovemberSaturday 13th January
THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS
Featuring live music and a talented company of actormusicians, this delightful adaptation by Toby Hulse of Kenneth Grahame’s classic story is set to be the perfect festive treat for all ages.
Z ARTS
www.z-arts.org
Saturday 23rd September
THE REALLY FABULOUS FAMILY CABARET
Six marvellous highly skilled performers bring you a riproaring ride of fabulousness. Song, dance, and speciality acts share the stage to bring you a joyous fest of a show.
Saturday 14th-Sunday 15th October
MICHAEL MORPURGO’S I BELIEVE IN UNICORNS
Award-winning storyteller Danyah Miller brings bestselling children’s author Michael Morpurgo’s treasured story to life.
Saturday 14th October
THE WIZARD OF OZ
Enjoy Dorothy, the Scarecrow, Tinman, Lion and Toto as they seek the Wonderful Wizard to find that there’s no place like home!
14 Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside for thousands more great days out BACK TO SCHOOL ISSUE 2023
15 BACK TO SCHOOL ISSUE 2023 Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside for thousands more great days out
The Pumpkin Patch Hightown Find us on Orrell Hill Lane, Hightown, L38 5DA. Insta: @thepumpkinpatchhightown Facebook: /thepumpkinpatchhightown No booking Pick your own pumpkin Pick your own sweetcorn Free Maize Maze Thousands of fabulous pumpkins to choose from! 1st to 31st October, 2023 9am to 6pm daily All of our many different varieties of pumpkin, squash & gourds are grown by us on our family run farm. Famous for our giant pumpkins!