Hello again to our regular readers and a warm welcome to those of you starting school for the first time. We hope you’ve had a lovely summer break with your families and are looking forward to a brand-new school year ahead full of excitement and discoveries!
You’ll receive our magazine regularly throughout the school year - we are a ‘what’s on and where to go’ guide, highlighting child-friendly events and activities, local news and school updates, and great competitions. Our issues will be popped into your child’s book bag just before each holiday, packed full of fun, family-friendly destinations to help inspire you to get entertainment booked and sorted for the school breaks! Our pages will always feature attractions that include indoor and outdoor things-to-do, so whether it’s burning off energy or stimulating curious young minds, you’ll always find something to keep everyone happy that the weather can’t spoil!
Finally, it’s worth visiting our website www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside to take advantage of extra competitions and special offers. In the meantime, we wish you all a very happy and successful first term. See you soon!
INSIDE
LOCAL NEWS
ENJOY AUTUMN WOW OUR SCHOOLS BOX OFFICE KIDS ZONE 04
Back To School 2024
Local NEWS
Read on for the latest news from in and around the area, including information on important vaccines, school experiences, and looking ahead to festive shows!
Protect Your Child From Flu
Flu can be a very unpleasant illness in children as they suffer the same symptoms as adults. Some may need hospital treatment. Protect your child by having them vaccinated. The vaccination is a free, quick and painless nasal spray. If your child can’t have the nasal spray an injectable alternative is available.
All school aged children can have the vaccine at school. Please return the consent form sent to you by school. Children with certain long-term conditions like diabetes and asthma requiring a regular preventer inhaler, can alternatively receive the vaccine at their GP practice.
W: www.nhs.uk/child-flu
Learning in the village built on soap
In the Wirral village of Port Sunlight, founded in 1888 for soap factory workers, school and education groups can enjoy personalised experiences integrating history, geography, art and STEM subjects, perfect for Early Years, KS1 and KS2 groups of all abilities. With Port Sunlight Village Trust, groups can choose from trips to Port Sunlight Museum and SoapWorks, fascinating walking tours, and a range of accessible workshops to create full or half day tailored experiences. Enjoy school-friendly facilities, excellent public transport links and free coach parking! Find out more at www.portsunlightvillage.com/learning or email learning@portsunlightvillage.com
Help a dream come to lifebecome an egg donor
Many people from all ethnic backgrounds going through fertility treatment rely on egg donors to help achieve their dream of having a family. There is currently a shortage of egg donorscould you help one of the patients at The Hewitt Fertility Centre?
If you’re aged between 21-35, a non-smoker and would like to consider becoming an egg donor, go to The Hewitt Fertility Centre website or scan the QR code to find out more and to complete a donor enquiry form.
If you would like to speak to a member of the team, you can also call 0151 702 4212 or email lwft.donorbank@nhs.net W: www.liverpoolwomens.nhs.uk/donor
Enjoy Christmas in Wonderland at Shakespeare North Playhouse
It’s Christmas in Wonderland, and mischief is afoot! Join Alice as she falls down the rabbit hole again...
Running from 22nd November until 5th January, let Shakespeare North Playhouse in Prescot whisk you and your family away with this marvellously whimsical festive tale - a magical sequel to the cherished classic you know and love, Alice in Wonderland - featuring all your favourite Wonderland characters! W: www.shakespearenorthplayhouse.co.uk
Save 20% when you book for your family!*
*Discount automatically applied when booking four full
Enjoy AUTUMN
When the days grow shorter, and the weather isn’t as tempting as it was, it can get trickier to think of great family days out. Fear not! There are some fabulous things to do during the crisp, colourful autumn season…
Experience the wonder of Chester Zoo
No two visits to Chester Zoo are ever the same. With 128 acres to explore and over 37,000 animals that call the zoo home, there’s always something new to discover. Every year two million people experience countless magical moments at the zoo, from animal encounters to making precious memories with family and friends. Each visit is a day out that makes a difference, enabling them to protect endangered wildlife in Chester and support vital conservation projects around the world. Book your tickets and experience the wonder of Chester Zoo.
W: www.chesterzoo.org
Get creative with family-friendly fun at the Bluecoat
Enjoy a weekend of free, artist-led creative activities, games and more at the Family Heritage Weekend on Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th September. Explore the Bluecoat’s history as the UK’s first arts centre, a working home for artists for almost 100 years. This is a free, drop in event running 1-4pm on both days. Plus, the family-friendly exhibition Let Your Ideas Come Back As Children continues until Sunday 29th September. This interactive exhibition has transformed the Bluecoat galleries into Connexus, a creative industry set in the future. Created by two Merseysidebased artists Roxy Topia and Paddy Gould, in collaboration with children aged 8-11. Be sure to visit this autumn!
W: www.thebluecoat.org.uk/family
Welcome ghouls and ghosts to the Spooky Welly Walk!
Spooky Welly Walk is a Halloween-themed sponsored walk packed with wonderful Halloween activities and entertainment to keep your little monsters excited on Saturday 19th October at Sefton Park. Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation is celebrating 13 years of Spooky Welly Walk Liverpool, providing families with a fun-filled day of activities for little ones to enjoy and explore. Take on as many of their trick or treat stations as you dare. Creepy crafts, spooky storytelling, menacing mask making, cackling cup cake decorating to name a few!
W: www.roycastle.org/spooky
Gandeys Halloween Spooktacular Big Top Show!
Gandeys Circus returns once again with a brand-new actionpacked legendary Halloween Spooktacular Big Top Show for all the family at Trentham from 16th October until 3rd November! From the thrill acts to the big production numbers that Gandeys are famous for, it’s all here and you will be on the edge of your seat with excitement, rolling in the aisles with laughter, and hiding under your coats from the spooky thrills. This event gets more popular every year so make sure to book in advance to avoid disappointment!
Have you ever wanted to see Jupiter’s Great Red Spot up close? Wondered what it would be like to skip through the stars or weave across the Milky Way? With interactive exhibitions, immersive planetarium displays (including an exhilarating new show, The Great Solar System Adventure) and exciting experiments.
Book online and return free for 12 months.
Family Days Out
Port Sunlight Village
www.portsunlightvillage.com
There’s plenty for families to do in Port Sunlight all year round, from history adventures at Port Sunlight Museum and the Edwardian Worker’s Cottage to playtime in the village’s beautiful green spaces.
Autumn at the Zoo
Chester Zoo
www.chesterzoo.org
No two visits to are ever the same. With 128 acres to explore and over 37,000 animals that call the zoo home, there’s always something new to discover.
Interactive Exhibition
Bluecoat, Liverpool
www.thebluecoat.org.uk/family
The family-friendly exhibition Let Your Ideas Come Back As Children continues until Sunday 29th September. This interactive exhibition has transformed the Bluecoat galleries into Connexus, a creative industry set in the future. Created by two Merseyside-based artists Roxy Topia and Paddy Gould, in collaboration with children aged 8-11.
CAP COM GO!
Jodrell Bank
www.jodrellbank.net
On 16th July 1969, three Astronauts blasted off to space to make the first ever attempt to land humans on the Moon. This short film allows you to relive the epic NASA Apollo 11 mission like never before. Suitable for astronauts of all ages. Tickets £5, available as an add-on to general admission. Running until 29th November.
SEPTEMBER
Saturday 7th & Sunday 8th
September
Family Heritage Weekend
Bluecoat, Liverpool
www.thebluecoat.org.uk/family
A weekend of free, artist-led creative activities, games and more. Explore the Bluecoat’s history as the UK’s first arts centre, a working home for artists for almost 100 years. This is a free, drop in event running 1-4pm on both days.
We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip …or promise!
Sunday 8th September
Fun Dog Show at the Farm
Tatton Park
www.tattonpark.org.uk
An unforgettable day of fun and excitement, featuring ten delightful novelty classes that are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. A pawsome opportunity to celebrate our four-legged friends and have a tail-wagging good time!
Friday 13th - Sunday 15th
September
Bennetts British Superbike Championship
Oulton Park www.oultonpark.co.uk
The Bennetts British Superbike Championship makes a second visit to Oulton Park this autumn for the first Showdown round of the year, as the title fight hots up.
Sunday 15th September
Mosh Tots - Gigs for Kids
Future Yard, Birkenhead www.futureyard.org
Monday 9th September
Memory Café
Chester Zoo
www.chesterzoo.org
The Chester Zoo Memory Café is a place for people with dementia, their families, friends and carers to get together and enjoy a cuppa in the unique setting of the zoo. Meet and chat to other people and join in with quizzes, games and crafts. This is a flexible drop-in session running 10.30am-12noon and the coffee shop is open throughout for the purchase of hot drinks and cakes. Free to attend, takes place on the second and fourth Monday of each month.
Monday 9th September & Other Dates
Heritage Open Day - Old Dock Tour
Maritime Museum www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
Heritage Open Days are coming to the Old Dock this September. Choose from several sessions and discover one of the most important developments in Britain’s history. Other dates available.
The hippest, hottest party in town! Every Sunday during term time at 11am this popular show takes over Future Yard music venue in Birkenhead.
Saturday 21st September
Craft at the Museum Museum of Liverpool www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
Create your own album cover in this family craft activity. Find out more about famous record album covers from 1960s musicians from Liverpool and around the world in their Beyond the Beat display.
Saturday 28th September
Harvest Festival
Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk
A chance to celebrate the annual harvest by joining in with the Farm’s very own harvest festival. See the steam engine running, have a go at scarecrow making and spinning or make your own corn dolly.
For the Love of Art with Splatter and Stick
Lady Lever Art Gallery www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
Splatter and Stick offers an inclusive environment with the aim to develop a child’s self-confidence, natural exploration skills, hand eye co-ordination and manual dexterity, through the exploration of arts and crafts with sensory play. A fun and creative environment that supports families with children who may need additional support.
Autumn at the Zoo Chester Zoo
Sunday 29th September
Hallé Family Concert
The Bridgewater Hall
www.halle.co.uk
Hallé presents Marvellous Musical Myths and Legends. The concert is at 3pm and you can arrive anytime from 1.30pm for free fun family activities in the foyer!
Sunday 6th October
Relaxed Openings
Jodrell Bank www.jodrell.net
Runs on the first Sunday of every month, creating an inclusive and accessible environment for all visitors. With reduced noise and light levels in the exhibitions, plus a quiet space in the First Light Pavilion, Relaxed Openings are a calmer start to the morning for anyone who might appreciate it. 10-11am.
Apple Fest
Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk
OCTOBER
Saturday 5th & Sunday 6th October
Day Out with Thomas East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
Take a trip on Sodor’s number one tank engine and meet Sir Topham Hatt! Your adventure begins at Bury Station where you’ll meet Sir Topham and climb aboard a carriage so Thomas can take you on a trip up the line. Once you return you will find lots more fun and games waiting for you across the road at Bury Transport Museum.
Grandparents’ Weekend
Gulliver’s Theme Park
www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk
Two Grandparents get free entry when accompanied by one full paying person throughout Grandparents’ Weekend! This special offer is available at all Gulliver’s Theme Parks on both the Saturday and the Sunday.
Saturday 12th & Sunday 13th
October
Quince and Apple Weekend
Norton Priory www.nortonpriory.org
A fun event for all the family. Produce from the walled garden will be on sale as well as craft activities, music, storytelling and more.
Sunday 13th October
Mosh Tots - Gigs for Kids
Future Yard, Birkenhead www.futureyard.org
The place to be! Every Sunday at 11am during term time children and parents can enjoy music together!
Saturday 19th October
Spooky Welly Walk
Sefton Park
www.roycastle.org/spooky Frightening fun for all the family. Take on as many of the trick or treat stations as you dare. Creepy crafts, Spooky storytelling, menacing mask making, cackling cup cake decorating to name a few.
24th-26th October & Thursday 31st October
Halloween Ghost Trains East Lancashire Railway
www.eastlancsrailway.org
A scrumptious Sunday in the Gardens to celebrate the wonderful apple. Join in games and children’s activities in the gardens and taste delicious varieties from Tatton’s historic orchards. Enjoy tasty apple-based treats on sale in the shops and restaurants.
Saturday 12th October
Relaxed ScreeningsPlanetarium Show
World Museum, Liverpool www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
Relaxed shows have adjustments to be more inviting for visitors with sensory needs and their friends and families. These adjustments include: low level lighting left on during the shows, lower volume levels, reduced capacity to leave more choices in where to sit. People may like to chat or respond to shows while they are running. There will be a small number of sensory toys and objects available for visitors to borrow on request.
LOOKING AHEAD
Wednesday 16th October –Sunday 3rd November
Halloween Spooktacular
Gandeys Circus, Trentham www.gandeyscircus.com
A brand-new action-packed legendary Halloween Spooktacular Big Top Show for all the family. From the thrill acts to the big production numbers Gandeys are famous for, it’s all here and you will be on the edge of your seat with excitement. This event gets more popular every year so it’s advisable to book in advance to avoid disappointment.
Use code PT5 to get a £5 off ringside seats!
You’ll start with a haunted house walkthrough at Bury, featuring all manner of animatronic creeps and kooks. Meet and interact with the fiends of the Monster Squad before enjoying a spooky steam train ride. Every child will also get a goody bag!
Sunday 27th October
Mosh Tots - Halloween Special Future Yard, Birkenhead www.futureyard.org
Gigs for Kids! Visit Future Yard at 11am today for the Halloween Special. Aimed at children aged 1-8 and wellbehaved parents!
Spooky Welly Walk Sefton Park
Day Out with Thomas East Lancashire Railway
Our SCHOOLS
Merseyside’s brilliant schools take pride in delivering exceptional teaching with outstanding facilities. Read on for their latest news and dates of upcoming Open Days.
Don’t miss the Open Morning at The Belvedere Academy
Join staff and pupils at The Belvedere Academy’s Open Morning on Friday 6th September 9-10.30am. Step into their vibrant, happy learning community and discover firsthand the outstanding facilities that nurture creativity, innovation, and excellence. Don’t miss this chance to embark on an exciting journey with them! There is no need to book for this event and they look forward to seeing you.
If you have any questions visit www.belvedereacademy.net or call 0151 727 1284
St. Mary’s College & Preparatory School is proud to be rated ‘Excellent’
St. Mary’s College & Preparatory School in Crosby is proud to be rated ‘Excellent’ in all areas by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI).
Awarding St. Mary’s its highest-possible grading in both of the main inspection categories, ISI described the quality of pupils’ academic achievements and personal development as excellent, due to the ‘outstandingly positive attitudes towards learning’ at the school’. Academic excellence is a key aim at St. Mary’s, and pupils achieve outstanding results at all key stages. However, success is measured by much more than examination results. The school places great emphasis on the development of the whole person, encouraging achievement in many fields via its rich programme of extra-curricular activities. All of this makes St. Mary’s College & Preparatory School a place where children can develop into bright, confident young people who want to make the world better for others, as well as themselves.
Key dates:
• Open Evening: Thursday 19th September from 4-7pm
• Open Morning: Saturday 21st September from 10am-12pm
• Entrance Examination (2025 admissions): Friday 15th November
W: www.stmarys.ac
St Julie’s is a vibrant learning community where pupils feel valued
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. Students reach prestigious destinations using life skills developed with the school, such as the leadership skills shown by their prefects. Their last Ofsted inspection in 2023 judged the school to be good, and the Catholic Schools Inspectorate noted in 2024 “Students truly understand and embrace the charism and mission of St. Julie’s. They speak with pride about how they live out the Notre Dame values in their daily lives. Students feel valued, supported, safe, happy and confident”.
To find out more about a place for your daughter, please visit the website or go and meet their new Headteacher, staff and students at the Open Event on Thursday 19th September from 4-6pm.
W: www.stjulies.org.uk
Kirkby High School sets out core principles for their students to thrive
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 students can thrive. These are their Kirkby Child values which are a set of core principles for their students and underpin the whole school ethos. Discover for yourself at their Open Events: Open Evening: Thursday 26th September from 6-8.30pm
Open Mornings: Tuesday 24th and Wednesday 25th September from 9-11am
W: www.kirkbyhighschool.net
Shaun the Sheep encourages schools and youth groups to sign up and take part in Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day
This year Shaun the Sheep has taken on a new fleece of life in the hope of encouraging schools and youth groups up and down the country to sign up and take part in Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day on Thursday 12th December.
As the charity’s new ‘Head of Wool’, Shaun has colla-baa-rated with Save the Children to make the world better with a sweater and wants children across the UK to join the flock. When you sign up to Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day, you’ll receive a free fundraising pack with lesson plans, festive activities and all the information you need to plan the merriest day ever.
Shaun the Sheep’s creators Aardman have developed some exclusive schools’ resources with Twinkl which can be found now at www.christmasjumperday.org
Charlie Stein, Head of Christmas Jumper Day, from Save the Children said: “With Shaun the Sheep as our Head of Wool for this year’s Christmas Jumper Day, we hope that more schools than ever will join the flock. We want children and staff to have a baarilliant day on Thursday 12th December and help make the world better with a sweater.
Let’s get this Christmas Jumper Day party started - join millions of people across the country as they don their jolliest jumpers and help children in the UK and around the world stay safe, healthy and learning.”
Rachael Peacock, Senior Brand Manager, from Aardman said: “Shaun the Sheep is a character loved by all ages, and we are so excited that he has the honour of being crowned as Save the Children’s new Head of Wool for Christmas Jumper Day. We hope he inspires children across the UK to sign up and take part in the woolliest fundraiser of the year. We have a legacy of working with Save the Children and feel very passionate about the charity’s work. Together we can create change that lasts lifetimes.”
Sign up now at ChristmasJumperDay.org
Sign up for your free fundraising pack at www.christmasjumperday.org
Get your jumper out. You don’t have to buy a new one, upcycle an old jumper with tinsel and baubles. Or buy a Shaun the Sheep sew-on baa-dge or pin baa-dge from Save the Children’s online shop from 7th October to turn your jumper into a festive masterpiece, with 100% of profits donated to Save the Children.
1 3 2
Donate to Save the Children. By having fun and raising money, you’re creating lasting change for and with children in the UK and around the world.
Box OFFICE
All the very best theatre, arts and films near you. Book some warming entertainment your family this autumn.
The Atkinson Southport www.theatkinson.co.uk
Tuesday 8th-Wednesday 9th September
DEAR ZOO
The timeless children’s classic book returns to the stage. Help your children learn as the book leaps onto the stage and share a magical experience as the story unfolds with child-engaging puppets, music and lots of audience interaction.
The Bridgewater Hall www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk
Sunday 29th September
THE HALLÉMARVELLOUS MUSICAL MYTHS AND LEGENDS
Explore wonderful stories of myths and legends through music, in a fun and interactive concert for all the family. Join presenter and broadcaster Tom Redmond, conductor Euan Shields, and the Hallé for a funfilled interactive family-friendly concert full of fantastic creatures and characters.
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 Brindley www.thebrindley.org.uk
Sunday 8th September
AMAZING ANIMALS
This heart-warming show packed full of music, comedy and amazing animal effects is suited to all ages.
Sunday 22nd September
NICK COPE’S FAMILY SHOW
The show appeals to children and adults alike. Recommended for Ages 3+.
Liverpool Empire www.atgtickets.com
Wednesday 11th-Thursday 12th September
PEPPA PIG FUN DAY OUT
Join Peppa, along with her family and friends as they go to the zoo and the beach for a special partyit’s going to be an exciting and fun packed day.
Tuesday 24th-Saturday 28th September
101 DALMATIONS
The smash hit musical 101 Dalmatians stars Kym Marsh (Coronation Street, Hear’Say) as the greatest villain of them all, Cruella De Vil.
Tuesday 8th-Sunday 20th October
CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG
The most fantasmagorical musical of all time flies into Liverpool Empire for two weeks only!
The Lowry www.thelowry.com
Saturday 21st-Sunday 22nd September
MONKEYS EVERYWHERE
A show for all ages - but especially for those who can’t always keep their monkeys under control. Full of clowning, silliness, and a lot of laughter, this is a show with real heart.
Sunday 29th September
LITTLE RED RIDING COULD
A playful and mischievous retelling of the familiar fairy tale.
Shakespeare North Playhouse, Prescot
www.shakespearenorthplayhouse.co.uk
Saturday 28th September
FABLES AT THE KITCHEN TABLE
Storyteller Soph has travelled all over the world collecting stories. But lately, she’s been spending more time at home… Luckily, she’s discovered a fantastic book of fables to help her pass the time! From Aesop the friendly Lion, to Tim the chilled-out Tortoise, join Soph on an imaginative adventure from her kitchen table, as she brings some of Aesop’s best-loved animal characters to life. With beautiful songs, creative puppetry, music and a little bit of theatre magic, this fabulous family show features everything except the kitchen sink! Recommended age 3-8 and families.
Friday 22nd November-
Sunday 5th January
ALICE IN WONDERLAND
A marvellously whimsical festive tale, a magical sequel to the cherished classic you know and love, Alice in Wonderland. Alice has always told her children stories of her adventures in a faraway world, not that they believe her! Even Alice has begun to doubt whether she’d really lived that daydream. Until, one Christmas Eve, caught up in the chaos of last-minute shopping, a flash of white fur lures Alice back into an all too familiar story… Once again, Alice’s old friends, the Mad Hatter and the Cheshire Cat need her help. Suitable for all.
Unity Theatre
Hope Place, Liverpool www.unitytheatreliverpool.co.uk
Saturday 28th September
MONSTER DISCO
The Monster Disco is a 45-minute interactive puppet performance by Headstrung Puppets. Music, dance and puppetry are brought together with accessibility and inclusivity to create a joyous and uplifting family experience.
