Primary Times Greater Manchester - Back to School 2025
35,600 COPIES FOR FAMILIES OF PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN Greater Manchester
Welcome to the new school year! I hope you had a lovely summer and a huge hello to our new families who have just started school. We publish seven magazines throughout the academic year, providing a ‘what’s on and where to go’ guide for families in Greater Manchester. You’ll find lots of child-friendly events, activities and days out in each issue, along with local news, special offers, school updates and competitions too. We have a selection of upcoming events and days out over the coming months, so take a look at those to make the most of your family time this autumn. Plus, you’ll find updates from local schools and details of their Open Days on page 10 if you are looking at secondary schools for next year. We will be back in October full of half term fun ideas, but until then, enjoy the first term of school!
04 LOCAL NEWS
The latest news from in and around Manchester
06 ENJOY AUTUMN
Days out to delight the family this season
08 WOW
What’s on Where – a diary of activities
10 OUR SCHOOLS
12 BOX OFFICE
An array of on-stage shows near you
14 FESTIVE SHOWS
A preview of what’s to come later in the year
Local NEWS
A round up of news from around Manchester, including some extracurricular options for school children looking for tutoring or performing arts classes in the area.
Find 11+ success with Kumon
Kumon is the world’s leading supplementary education provider, with more than 60 years of experience and over 3.5 million students worldwide. The Kumon Maths and English Study Programmes encourage mastery of each topic, leading to students being able to demonstrate their depth of knowledge and advanced skills. Through regular assessments, Kumon students advance through the programmes and build the study skills needed to approach 11+ tests and entrance exams with confidence – Kumon study helps them master material in a way that traditional tutoring does not. For more information and to book your child’s Kumon FREE assessment, contact your nearest centre via the website. W: www.kumon.co.uk
Stagecoach offers a two-week trial
Stagecoach Altrincham, Urmston and Salford provide quality parttime 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. Why not book a trial at your local Stagecoach today?
There are currently around 100 children waiting for families with North-West adoption agency, Adoption Now! The children are aged from 0-8 years old, all with different backgrounds and needs and some that need to be adopted with their brothers and sisters. Now more than ever, as the number of children in need of adoption outweighs the number of families coming forward, the team urgently need you to consider opening your hearts and homes to a child or children that need them. If you could offer a safe, loving, and nurturing home visit www.adoptionnow.org.uk or call 01204 336096
Create confident futures with Razzamataz
At Razzamataz Manchester South, they offer dynamic classes in singing, dancing, and acting – from high-energy musical theatre to expressive contemporary styles. Their school is more than just performance; it’s a place where children build confidence, spark creativity, and form lasting friendships. They believe in creating confident futures, equipping students not only with stage skills but also with invaluable life lessons that support them in every walk of life. Whether your child dreams of the spotlight or simply wants to have fun, Razzamataz is the place to shine. Book a FREE taster session today and let their journey begin! W: www.razzamataz.co.uk
Bridgewater School, Drywood Hall, Worsley
Enjoy AUTUMN
The children are back to school and leaves are starting to turn, but this colourful season brings with it some great family days out to choose from, making it easier to fill weekends with fun activities.
Quentin Blake and Me at The Lowry
Open now – Sunday 4th January 2026
Running throughout the rest of the year, this brand-new vibrant and lively FREE family exhibition celebrates the work of one of the most popular and successful writers and illustrators of children’s books, Quentin Blake. This exhibition features a vast collection of Blake’s work, fun interactives, games to play, and plenty of opportunities for young visitors and their families to write and draw their own stories. It’s a fantastic chance to immerse yourself in the magical world of Quentin Blake and enjoy a fun-filled outing for the whole family! W: www.thelowry.com
Don’t miss The Library of Enchantment at Z-arts
A fun-filled thrilling family-friendly escape room, full of seafaring adventures, time travelling tricks and a pesky bookworm causing mischief! Specially designed for ages 8+, this immersive experience will have you solving clues, riddles and puzzles and racing against the clock to capture Billi the bookworm before the Library Inspector arrives. But hurry – this is your last chance to book before the magic disappears for good! W: www.z-arts.org
Meet Bluey and Bingo
Saturday 20th September
Wackadoo! The excitable sisters from Down Under are coming to visit the Bury Transport Museum, see them at intervals on Saturday 20th September, and don’t forget to take your cameras! There will also be a fun fair with three rides, face painters, a petting zoo and craft activities, all included in the general admission ticket price. Why not complete your day with a ride on a steam or diesel train on the East Lancs Railway. Ticket price includes a ride on any train services on the day of your visit! Book general admission tickets online. W: www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
Horrible Histories – Live on Stage
Saturday 27th & Sunday 28th September at the Stoller Hall
We all want to meet people from history – the trouble is that everyone is dead! Prepare for Horrible Histories live on stage with the acclaimed production of Gorgeous Georgians and Vile Victorians. Are you ready to swing with a Georgian king? Does the Duke of Wellington get the boot? Would you stand and deliver to dastardly Dick Turpin? Can you help detectives find the headless man? Find out what a baby farmer did and move to the groove with party Queen Victoria! Don’t miss this horrible history of Britain with the nasty bits left in! W: www.stollerhall.com
Watch the biggest indoor sport
in the UK
Manchester Storm is the only professional ice hockey team in the North West, playing in the highest league in the country, Elite Ice Hockey League. Based in Altrincham, enjoy a fantastic experience and night out combined with top level professional sport… Ice Hockey is the fastest team sport in the world! It is a high speed, physical game with a great family atmosphere. A great night for all ages with food, drink, atmosphere and highest-level professional sport. What’s stopping you? Visit The Storm Shelter soon! W: https://iceaccount.co.uk/manchester-storm
Book now for Gandeys Halloween Spooktacular
Friday 10th October – Sunday 2nd November
Something spooky is coming this way! Gandeys Circus returns once again with a brand-new action-packed legendary Halloween Spooktacular Big Top Show for all the family at Trafford Centre from Friday 10th October until Sunday 2nd November.
From the thrill acts to the big production numbers Gandeys are famous for, it’s all there and you will be on the edge of your seat with excitement, rolling in the aisles with laughter, and hiding under your coats from the spooky thrills! This event gets more popular every year so it’s advisable to book in advance to avoid disappointment. W: www.gandey.com
WOW
What’s on Where in Greater Manchester
Ongoing
The Library of Enchantment
Z-arts
www.z-arts.org
A fun-filled thrilling family-friendly escape room, full of seafaring adventures, time travelling tricks and a pesky bookworm causing mischief! Specially designed for ages 8+, this immersive experience will have you solving clues, riddles and puzzles and racing against the clock to capture Billi the bookworm before the Library Inspector arrives. But hurry – this is your last chance to book before the magic disappears for good!
Quentin Blake Exhibition Lowry www.thelowry.com
Running throughout the rest of the year, this brand-new vibrant and lively free family exhibition celebrates the work of one of the most popular and successful writers and illustrators of children’s books. This exhibition features a vast collection of Blake’s work, fun interactives, games to play, and plenty of opportunities for young visitors and their families to write and draw their own stories.
Ice Hockey
Manchester Storm
www.manchesterstorm.com
Manchester Storm is the only professional ice hockey team in the North West, playing in the highest league in the country, Elite Ice Hockey League. Based in Altrincham, they provide a fantastic experience and night out combined with top level professional sport, Ice Hockey is the fastest team sport in the world! It is a high speed, physical game with a great family atmosphere.
From Pitch to Page
National Football Museum
www.nationalfootballmuseum.com
Explore four zones filled with iconic moments, interactive quizzes, and nostalgic editions of annuals. After visiting the exhibition, join the Creative Kickabout – an array of exciting, hands-on activities that celebrate football through a mixture of art, play and performance. Free to City of Manchester residents and all tickets are valid for 12 months, with unlimited visits! Running until 21st September.
Free Assessment
Kumon
www.kumon.co.uk
Kumon is the world’s leading supplementary education provider, with more than 60 years of experience and over 3.5 million students worldwide. For more information and to book your child’s
Adventures in Wonderland
Z-arts
www.z-arts.org
An interactive play experience for ages 1-8. Fall down the rabbit hole and have your very own magical adventure! Follow the White Rabbit into scenes from the beloved book, crawl through tunnels, splash around in a ball pool, play croquet with flamingos, dress as your favourite characters, get lost in a card maze, have tea as the Mad Hatter, plus so much more! Complete your visit by exploring Z-arts, enjoy a treat at Z-café, visit the Children’s Library, and take home a souvenir activity booklet (£2.50). There’s so much to discover. Dates announced until December.
Thursday 4th –
Saturday 13th September
Southside Tours
Jodrell Bank
www.jodrellbank.net
LIMITED TICKETS LEFT! Step back in time and go behind the scenes of this UNESCO World Heritage Site with these exclusive Southside Tours. A rare opportunity to explore the Jodrell’s historic grounds and the home of radio astronomy. Running on Thursday 4th, Saturday 6th and Saturday 13th September, 10.45am-12.15pm.
From Saturday 6th September
Gemini and Mercury Remastered
Jodrell Bank
www.jodrellbank.net
New exhibition and book signing. Author and NASA digital restoration expert Andy Saunders presents his latest work featuring the first photographs of Earth taken during projects Mercury and Gemini. Meet Andy and get a signed copy of his new book ‘Gemini and Mercury Remastered’. Free with general admission.
Monday 8th September & Tuesday 7th October
Mothers Who Make HOME
www.homemcr.org
A peer support group and creative exchange session for mothers who are artists – professional and/ or passionate – writers, painters, actors, dancers, filmmakers, photographers… every kind of maker welcome, and every kind of mother. The sessions aim to give creative mothers the chance to explore their practice in a room with their child. You are invited to join this inspiring and growing initiative. Feel free to take along your children, of any age, whether they are inside you, beside you or running around the room!
Saturday 20th September
Bluey and Bingo
East Lancashire Railway
www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
The excitable sisters from Down Under are coming to visit the Bury Transport Museum, see them at intervals and don’t forget to take your cameras. There will also be a fun fair with three rides, face painters, a petting zoo and craft activities, all included in the general admission ticket price. Why not complete your day with a ride on a steam or diesel train on the East Lancs Railway. Ticket price includes a ride on any train services on the day of your visit.
Saturday 27th September
Stoller Story Sounds
The Stoller Hall www.stollerhall.com
Discover the secrets of the forest. Why do we need the sun’s fire? What makes the trees shake and quake? What makes the rivers roar? Enjoy a new story, exploring how the elements sustain the beautiful forest. With illustrator, Lizzie Finlay,
Saturday 4th & Sunday 5th October
Day Out with Thomas
East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
You’ll meet Sir Topham Hatt at the Station, say hello to Thomas on the platform and then climb aboard a carriage. Thomas will pull your train through the amazing countryside on a fun-filled journey
Saturday 4th –
Sunday 19th October
Sci-Fi film Season
Jodrell Bank www.jodrellbank.net
Jodrell Bank’s popular Sci-Fi film season returns this October, featuring classics like Interstellar and Alien in a truly unique setting – the Space Dome! Tickets from £7. Running on weekends 4th & 5th
Thursday 30th October –
Saturday 1st November
Halloween Ghost Trains
East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
Are you ready for a fang-tastically frightening time on board the Halloween Ghost Trains? Count Brian the Vampire, his trusted henchman Bogeye and the whole monster squad are just dying to meet you to
Our SCHOOLS
Read on for the latest updates from some schools in the area, get a feel for their ethos, and look to attend an Open Day or arrange a tour to find out more.
Bridgewater School invites you to begin your individual journey
At this independent day school for children aged 3-18 years, success and happiness go hand in hand. At the heart of the school’s ethos lies the belief that every individual deserves a range of opportunities which will enable them to flourish, and visitors are invited to experience this holistic approach to education for themselves.
For families interested in the benefits of a Bridgewater education, the school is holding a Whole School Open Day on Saturday 8th November. Visit to find out more and see how far your child could go. W: www.bridgewater-school.co.uk/open-day-2025
Award-winning school with care at its heart
On being named Secondary School of the Year at the 2024 Tes Schools Awards, Dame Christine Gilbert said, “Burnage Academy is an inspiring and inclusive school where families are supported well and students thrive, love learning and achieve exceptionally well.” Consistently amongst the country’s highest-performing schools when it comes to boys’ education, and with successive ‘Outstanding’ ratings by Ofsted, Burnage places great emphasis on both academic achievement and guiding pupils to develop into well-rounded citizens who contribute positively to society. From free music tuition and international exchanges to cricket academy partnerships and community projects, the rich curriculum extends far beyond the classroom, and the caring nature of the school ensures that boys receive specialist support, guidance and mentoring throughout their journey. Visit the Open Evening on Thursday 25th September, 4pm-7pm, or arrange a personal tour at your convenience. W: www.burnage.manchester.sch.uk
Firsts matter at Manchester High School for Girls
From the first question asked to the first moment of discovery, the school nurture curiosity and confidence. As the North of England’s first academic girls’ school, MHSG is proud to be the School of Firsts. Welcoming The Good Schools Guide for an independent review, they were thrilled by their verdict: “A lovely prep school – academic, nurturing, and supportive. One of the happiest and most effervescent schools we have visited.” Every girl is empowered to achieve her potential. Discover more at www.manchesterhigh.co.uk
Expanding horizons at The Manchester Grammar School
Junior School pupils in years 3 to 5 from the Junior School at The Manchester Grammar School took part in an exciting residential trip to Plas Menai, where they engaged in a wide-ranging programme of water and land-based activities. From stand-up paddleboarding, dinghy sailing, and kayaking to high ropes and team challenges, the experience provided valuable opportunities for personal growth. Throughout the week, pupils developed key skills including teamwork, resilience, and confidence – both on and off the water. It was a memorable and enriching experience that supported their learning beyond the classroom and helped to strengthen friendships across year groups. Attend their Whole School Open Evening on Thursday 25th September to find out more. W: www.mgs.org
Boys do better at Burnage
At Burnage Academy for Boys, pupils come first and thrive through our values of resilience, independence and care. Consistently amongst the highest performing schools in the country, boys make better academic progress here than they do at the majority of schools in England.
Alongside exceptional academic outcomes, we offer a wide range of extra-curricular opportunities and an award-winning pastoral programme.
Box OFFICE
Some of the best family shows and films for now, plus some more to book ahead for later in the year!
Albert Halls
www.alberthalls-bolton.co.uk
Saturday 29th November –Wednesday 31st December
THE ADVENTURES OF PETER PAN
Take flight alongside Peter, Wendy, and Tinks as you venture into Never Island and meet the dastardly Captain Hook and his sidekick Smee. Features spectacular scenery, dazzling costumes, amazing special effects, lots of audience participation, plenty of comedy and a good helping of fairy dust!
AO Arena
www.ao-arena.com
Wednesday 29th October DEADLY LIVE!
Legendary wildlife presenter Steve Backshall is bringing an action-packed, edge-of-your-seat experience like no other.
Aviva Studios
www.avivastudios.co.uk
Thursday 11th December – Sunday 4th January
SHAUN THE SHEEP’S CIRCUS SHOW
This show combines the extreme physicality and awe-inspiring feats of Circa and the playful charm of the multi-award-winning, globally successful Shaun the Sheep. Expect a visual spectacle for the entire family, packed full of Aardman’s signature comedy and outright hilarity.
Bridgewater Hall
www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk
Sunday 7th December
HALLÉ CHRISTMAS FAMILY CONCERT: SLEIGH RIDE ADVENTURE
Hop aboard for a musical sleigh ride adventure with the Hallé! Jingle all the way through festive favourites including famous TV and film music… and of course there’ll be some carols and singalongs so everyone can join in! Visit the foyer beforehand for family fun and free activities!
Saturday 20th & Sunday 21st December
THE SNOWMAN & SHAUN THE SHEEP
Sit back and enjoy the films on the Big Screen whilst the talented musicians of the Hallé accompany The Snowman as he soars through the wintry sky and Shaun the Sheep gets up to festive mischief in The Flight Before Christmas!
HOME www.homemcr.org
Saturday 6th September
MIRAI (PG)
Family film (dubbed). A tale of sibling rivalry through time and space.
Thursday 27th NovemberWednesday 31st December
FREAKY FRIDAY
Freaky Friday is a heartfelt, comedic, and unexpectedly emotional musical update on an American classic. This vibrant musical reimagines the iconic body-swapping tale with a fresh contemporary score and feelgood moments that are perfect for the whole family.
Lowry www.thelowry.com
Sunday 28th September
THREE LITTLE VIKINGS
Three brave little Viking girls save the day in this bold and funny adventure story for little rebels, by the creator of the New York Times Best Illustrated Book Little Red and I Can Catch a Monster, Bethan Woollvin.
Saturday 11th October
THE STICKY DANCE
An interactive, engaging and colourful performance installation for children and their families. For family audiences and children aged 3-5 years old.
Stoller Hall www.stollerhall.com
Saturday 27th & Sunday 28th September
HORRIBLE HISTORIES – LIVE ON STAGE
Prepare for Horrible Histories live on stage with the acclaimed production of Gorgeous Georgians and Vile Victorians. Are you ready to swing with a Georgian king? Does the Duke of Wellington get the boot? Would you stand and deliver to dastardly Dick Turpin? Don’t miss this horrible history of Britain with the nasty bits left in!
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!
GRANDAD ANANSI | Z-ARTS
Z-arts
www.z-arts.org
Saturday 6th September
LIP SYNC BRAWL
Ghetto Fabulous is proud to present Lip Sync Brawl – a turbo-charged, crowd-powered performance where dazzling drag meets the electric energy of a rock concert. It’s fierce, it’s fun, and it’s totally family-friendly! Think fast-paced performances, outrageous glamour, and the kind of feel-good energy that gets everyone cheering.
Thursday 2nd –
Saturday 4th October
GRANDAD ANANSI
Grandad is as smart and mischievous as the wily Anansi legend, a part human, part spider and the subject of many West African and Caribbean folk stories. Can he find a way to tell his granddaughter about his plans to return to Jamaica, his beloved homeland? Ages 4-9.
Saturday 18th October
CLUB NINJA
A shadowy adventure into an imaginative, immersive world of silhouettes and movement. Discover the secrets of The Ninja as dance, shadow play and live music draw you into their mysterious world. Brought to you by Ichi Ni San, the creative team behind Club Origami, Club Ninja is the second in a trilogy of playful dance performances for children and their families aged 3+.
HORRIBLE HISTORIES | STOLLER HALL
Join us at The Bridgewater Hall for two magical Christmas family concerts with the Hallé orchestra
Sun 7 Dec, 3pm SLEIGH RIDE
Hop aboard for a musical sleigh ride adventure with the Hallé orchestra in this festive family concert.
Sat 20 Dec, 4pm Sun 21 Dec, 11am and 1.30pm THE SNOWMAN & SHAUN THE SHEEP
The Snowman will be walking in the air, followed by a ‘ewe’-nique performance from Shaun the Sheep (The Flight Before Christmas) – all on the big screen with the amazing Hallé orchestra perfoming the soundtrack live.
Festive SHOWS
This is the time of year when lots of families start to think ahead to the festive period, and we have a selection of local theatre shows that you can book tickets for in advance, giving you pick of the best seats!
Book your family Christmas theatre trip to HOME
27th November
– 31st December
The brand-new musical, Freaky Friday, based on the novel by Mary Rodgers and the hit Disney films, which captured the hearts of generations, comes to HOME with its UK stage premiere this November!
Freaky Friday is a heartfelt, comedic, and unexpectedly emotional musical update on an American classic. This vibrant musical reimagines the iconic body-swapping tale with a fresh contemporary score and feel-good moments that are perfect for the whole family this Christmas. Book your tickets in advance now for pick of the best seats! W: www.homemcr.org
Join the Hallé orchestra for festive fun at the Bridgewater Hall
Hallé Christmas Family Concert: Sleigh Ride Adventure
Sunday 7th December, 3pm
Hop aboard for a musical sleigh ride adventure with the Hallé! Jingle all the way through festive favourites including famous TV and film music… and of course there’ll be some carols and sing-alongs so everyone can join in! Join them in the foyer from 1.30pm for family fun and free activities beforehand!
The Snowman & Shaun the Sheep, Saturday 20th December, 4pm and Sunday 21st Dec, 11am & 1.30pm
Sit back and enjoy the films on the Big Screen whilst the talented musicians of the Hallé accompany The Snowman as he soars through the wintry sky and Shaun the Sheep gets up to festive mischief in The Flight Before Christmas! W: www.halle.co.uk
The Pirates are coming .... to The Albert Halls
29th November –31st December
Oh yes they ARRRGH! Take flight alongside Peter, Wendy, and Tinks as you venture into Never Island and meet the dastardly Captain Hook and his sidekick Smee. This perfect festive treat features spectacular scenery, dazzling costumes, amazing special effects, lots of audience participation, plenty of comedy and a good helping of fairy dust! Starring Lloyd Warbey (Disney’s Art Attack) as the hilarious Smee, Kivan Dene as Captain Hook, Calum O’Rourke as the heroic Peter Pan, Megan Edmondson as Tinks, Chelsey Morgan as Wendy, and Ella Heywood as Persil the Mermaid, this pantomime is suitable for the entire family. With a full supporting cast of wonderful professional dancers and three teams of amazingly talented young people from the local area, this trip to Never Island will leave you believing in the power of magic. Hook your tickets now! W: www.alberthalls-bolton.co.uk
Factory International presents Shaun the Sheep’s Circus Show
11th December – 4th January
Aviva Studios, home of Factory International, Manchester has a fantastic show taking over this winter. A UK premiere, Shaun the Sheep’s Circus Show is fun for all the family!
Two worlds gleefully collide, combining the extreme physicality and aweinspiring feats of internationally acclaimed circus ensemble, Circa and the playful charm of the multi-award-winning, TV series Shaun the Sheep. The entire family will be treated to a visual spectacle, packed full of Aardman’s signature wit and outright hilarity, as the Circa ensemble continues to blur the lines between movement, dance, theatre and circus. It’s a high-flying family adventure with un-BAA-lievable acrobats. W: www.factoryinternational.org
Singing, Dancing & Drama Lessons
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Kumon students are over a year ahead of the national average, and over six months ahead of their peers in their maths learning at the end of primary school.*
