A Squash and a Squeeze
© Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler 1993, 2003Macmillan Children’s Books
Local NEWS
A round-up of news from the area, including some important water safety information from RNLI, details of extracurricular activities for children, and some great events taking place over the next few months.
RNLI – the charity that saves lives at sea
The RNLI is more than just a rescue service; they educate people about water safety too! It’s a core part of their work and to keep children safe they have four key safety messages.
1 Stop and think – of any potential hazards before entering the water.
2 Stay together – it is safer to enter the water when with an adult.
3 Float – if you fall into cold water, float on your back until you have controlled your breathing, then call for help and raise your hand to draw attention, or swim to safety if you’re able to do so.
4 Call 999/112 – if you see someone in danger in the water, ask an adult to call 999/112 immediately.
If you’re a parent, sign your little ones up to Storm Force membership and get real rescue stories, cool facts, and fun activities in the quarterly magazine. Visit www.RNLI.org/PrimaryTimesSF to find out more.
The RNLI offer a wide range of curriculum linked educational materials and lesson plans, and schools can arrange a FREE visit from a RNLI water safety volunteer. Ask your teacher to visit www.RNLI.org/education to find out how your school can make a lifesaving difference.
Get started with Kumon this summer term and save with their Free Registration offer
Kumon is proud to be recognised as an education provider that delivers proven academic results. They are offering Free Registration on the Kumon Maths and English Programmes between 1st June and 30th June, to help you get started before the end of the summer term. Students can also study digitally with KUMON CONNECT, making Kumon’s tried and tested worksheets even more accessible and convenient to study using a tablet and stylus. Join over 3.5 million Kumon students worldwide by contacting your local Instructor, and book a Free Assessment and Kumon Registration to save with the Free Registration offer via www.kumon.co.uk
Football City, Art United
This exhibition debuts its own starting 11 in a large-scale exhibition of new works, collaborations between artists and footballers. Running from 4th July until 24th August, there’s something for everyone to experience – from sound installations, play arenas, paintings, drawings, animation, sculpture and film to new genre-defying artworks and collaborations. Go down and get involved, tickets from £7.50. There’s always something on at Aviva Studios, home of Factory International, for the family. Craft drop-ins over school holidays, free events or simply enjoy the outside space. Always check online before visiting. W: www.avivastudios.co.uk
Tailor this term’s school trip to Stories – Brought to Life
A ground-breaking immersive art experience created by FRAMELESS, in collaboration with the National Portrait Gallery, is now open at MediaCity, before touring the UK. Stories – Brought to Life will enable students to immerse themselves in some of the nation’s favourite portraits, exploring the lives of people whose stories have shaped the UK’s history and culture, from the Tudor period to the present day. Pick from self-led visits, sessions facilitated by the Learning Team, or relaxed sessions. Suitable from Key Stage 2, and teaching materials will be provided. Tickets from £5. W: www.npgunframed.com/schools
Singing, Dancing & Drama Lessons
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
Don’t miss this T20 Family Festival in June
Big hits, big fun, and a BIG day out for the whole family! Join Lancashire Cricket at Emirates Old Trafford on Sunday 8th June for the T20 Family Festival. Cheer on Lancashire Lightning in a thrilling T20 match against Northamptonshire Steelbacks – and enjoy a jam-packed fan village with circus acts, bubble artists, face painting, garden games and more! Meet Lanky the mascot and stick around for post-match autographs. All this from just £5 for juniors, £21 for adults. It’s cricket… but not as you know it! Head online to secure your tickets today. W: www.lancashirecricket.co.uk/T20
PAW Patrol ® Live! “ The Great Pirate Adventure” is coming to Manchester
The Pack is Back and on a Roll to the AO Arena on Sunday 20th July! This action-packed, music-filled production is based on the top-rated animated preschool series PAW Patrol, produced by Spin Master Entertainment and airing on Nickelodeon. Guests will see Ryder and his team of pups embark on a pirate-themed adventure to uncover hidden treasure. Do not miss this PAWsome opportunity to see the whole pack in this live touring stage performance. Sign up at www.PAWPatrolLive.co.uk for exclusive deals and to book tickets for the two performances at the AO Arena.
Enjoy a Day Out with Thomas at East Lancashire Railway this summer
Join Sodor’s Number One Tank Engine and Meet Sir Topham Hatt on a spectacular Day Out with Thomas at East Lancashire Railway, on Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd August. Your day out will start at Bury where you’ll meet Sir Topham and say hello to Thomas, before climbing aboard a carriage for a ride with the Little Blue Engine up to Ramsbottom Station and back. Once you return you will visit Bury Transport Museum where you’ll find loads more to see and do, including face painting, balloon modelling, fun fair rides and more. Book your tickets today! W: www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
The Ultimate Devon Holiday at Crealy Resort
Multiple Primary Times Devon Star awardwinning Crealy Theme Park and Resort has everything you need to ensure everyone has a great time whatever your budget for a family holiday. Conveniently located in the East Devon countryside, you are well located for great days out, beautiful beaches and lots of other great things to do. Choose from five star hot tub lodges, themed glamping tents, static caravans or over 100 camping and touring pitches, at Crealy you will experience the very best accommodation on offer in Devon. You can also enjoy state of the art onsite facilities, and a fantastic evening entertainment programme that runs throughout the Devon school holidays. What’s more, make use of the family Theme Park just next door to the accommodation with rides and activities including rollercoasters, water slides, family shows, indoor rides and adventure play. W: www.crealy.co.uk
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• ACCESS TO KIDS’ WEBSITE
Half Term FUN
Fall
down the rabbit hole and have your very own magical adventure
at Z-arts
After a sell-out run during the Easter Holidays, Adventures in Wonderland is ready for families to journey down the rabbit hole this May half term! Follow the White Rabbit into scenes from the beloved book – splash into the Pool of Tears, make friends with the Cheshire Cat, have tea as the Mad Hatter, play croquet with flamingos, get lost in a card maze, and wake up back on the riverbank, just in time for tea. Don’t be late for this very important date – book your tickets now and let the adventure begin! T: 0161 226 1912 W: www.z-arts.org
We have some great ideas of places to go and things to do over the bank holiday weekend and half term week. From a family show to an adventure day out or train ride, there are lots to choose from. NOW OPEN
A new immersive experience at MediaCity
Stories – Brought to Life is a new experience which is now open at MediaCity in Salford Quays. Discover the extraordinary stories behind some of the nation’s favourite portraits, in this new immersive art experience inspired by the National Portrait Gallery, created by FRAMELESS. Discover portraits like you’ve never seen them before! Stories will unfold in an unforgettable journey that fuses the best of art and technology, with images and animations travelling across specially created frames within a bespoke 10,000sq ft purpose built digital gallery. It is recommended to allow 60-75 minutes for your visit, and you can book online now for half term dates. W: www.npgunframed.com/schools
Enjoy a football-filled day out this half term
Step into the story of football at the National Football Museum with its new exhibition, From Pitch to Page. Explore four zones filled with iconic moments, interactive quizzes, and nostalgic editions. Celebrate the thrill of finishes and finals as the excitement of last-minute goals, untold stories of trophy-lifting moments, and historic football finales come to life. Get creative with the drop-in medal-making craft activity and discover legendary final moments by joining the special museum tours. Little guests can attend the under-six storytelling session, ‘Teri the Tarnished Trophy.’ Members of their incredible front of house team will be conducting Women’s Euros Spotlight Talks, giving adult guests more history on the women’s game ahead of the tournament’s return this year. Head online to book your tickets! W: www.nationalfootballmuseum.com
Don’t miss the debut of There’s a Monster in Your Show at Lowry
Tom Fletcher’s interactive adventures for big imaginations are leaping from page to stage, as the beloved ‘Who’s in Your Book?’ series makes its debut as a brand-new musical show. A high-energy 50-minute adventure featuring lively original music, this show is the perfect introduction to live theatre. Expect plenty of playful fun for your littlest ones as their favourite characters come to life in a show that is packed with interactive moments to enjoy together. There’s a Monster in Your Show... and he can’t wait to meet you at Lowry! On stage from Tuesday 27th May until Sunday 1st June, perfect for half term. W: www.thelowry.com
Photo © Darren Robinson
Plan your half term adventure at East Lancs Railway
There’s always carriage loads of fun for all the family (and plenty to please the train buffs) on the East Lancs Railway. Pop along any day you’d like or visit for a special event – there are three events running over May half term! Join a Dino Adventure on Wednesday 28th May, master the art of magic in a Wizarding Adventure on Thursday 29th May, or enrol for Villian Academy on Friday 30th May where you can train with well-known villains (you might meet Captain Hook or Cruella) and take on challenges! W: www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
The ultimate bowling experience for all the family
Experience the Crown Jewels of bowling at King Pins this half term! Enjoy state-of-the-art Ten Pin and Duck Pin bowling lanes, as well as mini golf, ice-free curling, shuffleboard, huge arcades, private karaoke party rooms and even more. And it isn’t just the games that are amazing! Get stuck into delicious pizza and crispy chicken from Marvin’s, as well as sweet treats and slushies from the Royal Treats desserts emporium. Find King Pins at Trafford Palazzo and Manchester Arndale now. W: www.kingpins.co.uk
WOW What’s on Where in
Greater Manchester
Details of What’s on Where across the county, all in date order to help you plan your weeks ahead. Don’t forget to mention that you saw it in Primary Times!
THIS SEASON
From Pitch to Page
National Football Museum www.nationalfootballmuseum.com
Explore four zones filled with iconic moments, interactive quizzes, and nostalgic editions in this new exhibition. Celebrate the thrill of finishes and finals as the excitement of last-minute goals, untold stories of trophy-lifting moments, and historic football finales come to life. Get creative with the drop-in medal-making craft activity and discover legendary final moments by joining the special museum tours. Little guests can attend the under-six storytelling session too!
King Pins
Trafford Palazzo and Manchester Arndale www.kingpinsbowling.co.uk
King Pins is the ultimate bowling experience for all the family! You’ll find state-of-the-art Ten Pin bowling, as well as Duck Pin lanes, ice-free curling, shuffleboard, pool, ping pong, and a huge arcade. If you book a party, as well as gaming, children will enjoy a delicious buffet of pizza and chicken and unlimited squash, plus every child will also get an exclusive kit bag with extra goodies inside.
Adventures in Wonderland
Z-arts
www.z-arts.org
An immersive play experience for children aged up to eight. Follow the White Rabbit into scenes from the beloved book – splash into the pool of tears, make friends with the Cheshire Cat, have tea as the Mad Hatter, play croquet with flamingos, get lost in a card maze, and wake up back on the riverbank, just in time for tea! Booking required.
Stories Brought to Life
MediaCity, Salford Quays www.npgunframed.com
A ground-breaking immersive art experience created by FRAMELESS, in collaboration with the National Portrait Gallery is now open. Discover the extraordinary stories behind some of the nation’s favourite portraits.
The Ultimate Devon Holiday
Crealy Resort www.crealy.co.uk
Crealy Theme Park and Resort has everything you need to ensure everyone has a great time whatever your budget for a family holiday. Conveniently located in the East Devon countryside, you are well located for great days out, beautiful beaches and lots of other great things to do!
Friday 23rd –Monday 26th May
British GT and GB4 Championship
Oulton Park www.oultonpark.co.uk
Oulton Park’s Spring Bank Holiday will be revved up in style thanks to the return of the British GT Championship, with two one-hour races set to thrill in the north west. Under-13s go FREE with reductions for 13-15-year-olds and discounts on all advance adult tickets.
Saturday 24th –Sunday 1st June
Visit Gulliver’s Gulliver’s World, WA5 9YZ www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk
Enjoy fun-filled adventures at Gulliver’s every day during May half term. Book early to save more on your theme park tickets or extend the fun with a magical short break!
Thursday 29th May
The Wizarding Adventure East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
During this magical interactive experience, you’ll take lessons in the basics of broomsticks, practice your potion making, be instructed in incantations and learn to tattle and talk with a tawny owl. Ages 5-12, includes a return railway trip.
Saturday 17th May
AJ Bell Junior & Mini
Great Manchester Run Etihad Campus www.greatrun.org
Younger runners have their own day to take centre stage the day before the Great Manchester Run. You can expect fancy dress, high-fives, and lots of local support from the Manchester crowd! Minis aged 3-8 can take on a fun 1.5k dash, and Juniors aged 9-15 can tackle the 2.5k challenge. It’s an incredible event atmosphere and all part of the iconic Great Manchester Run weekend. Be part of it!
Say you saw it in Primary Times
We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip…or promise! Get 10% off with code PT2025
Wednesday 28th May
The Dino Academy East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
Grab your explorer hat and get ready for a prehistoric day of dinosized fun! Join the eccentric and knowledgeable palaeontologists as they take you on a Jurassic journey packed with thrilling discoveries.
Through the Window Workshop
Tatton Park
www.tattonpark.org.uk
A unique family workshop which uncovers hidden vistas and magical views in Tatton Park’s award-winning Gardens. Recommended for children aged 3-6.
Junior Longbow
Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk
A special opportunity to learn how to shoot the English longbow like a Medieval archer! Ages 8-15.
Friday 30th May
Villain Academy East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
Step into the shadows and unleash your inner baddie as you train with the most diabolical, devious and downright dastardly villains! Meet a villain (perhaps Cruella or Captain Hook!) and take on challenges. Food and drink will be available to purchase from the café on Platform 3 and 4 at Bury Bolton Street Station and from the Rawtenstall Buffet.
Photo © Darren Robinson
Natural Navigators Workshop
Tatton Park
www.tattonpark.org.uk
A fascinating family workshop that gives an introduction on how to navigate when out in nature. Ages 7-11.
Sunday 1st –Monday 30th June
Free Registration Offer
Kumon
www.kumon.co.uk
Kumon is proud to be recognised as an education provider that delivers proven academic results. They are offering Free Assessment and Registration on the Kumon Maths and English Programmes during June, to help you get started before the end of the summer term.
Saturday 7th & Sunday 8th June
Classic and Performance Car Spectacular
Tatton Park
www.tattonpark.org.uk
The Classic and Performance Car Spectacular is one of the UK’S most loved classic car shows, celebrating the golden age of motoring.
See Paddington
Gulliver’s World, WA5 9YZ www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk
See Paddington Bear at Gulliver’s World for one weekend only! He’ll be appearing at intervals on both the Saturday and the Sunday.
Sunday 8th June
T20 Family Festival
Emirates Old Trafford www.lancashirecricket.co.uk
Cheer on Lancashire Lightning in a thrilling T20 match against Northamptonshire Steelbacks –and enjoy a jam-packed fan village with circus acts, bubble artists, face painting, garden games and more! Meet Lanky the mascot and stick around for post-match autographs. All this from just £5 for juniors, £21 for adults. It’s cricket… but not as you know it!
Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th June
Vintage and Victory Weekend at the Farm Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk
Step back in time and celebrate all that was great from the 1940s & 1950s.
Tuesday 17th & Wednesday 18th June
The Royal Cheshire County Show Cheshire Showground www.royalcheshireshow.org
From exciting animal displays and countryside activities to a fantastic fairground, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. It’s a chance to discover the best of Cheshire’s farming, food, and rural life – an unforgettable day filled with fun, learning, and memories the whole family will treasure.
Saturday 21st & Sunday 22nd June
Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship
Oulton Park www.oultonpark.co.uk
A full weekend programme from the BTCC will include Free Practice plus Qualifying on Saturday. Sunday will then feature the three headline races with a full support programme across the weekend.
DogFest
Tatton Park
www.tattonpark.org.uk
DogFest is a vibrant, dog-friendly festival that offers a fantastic day out for everyone!
Friday 4th July –Sunday 24th August
Football City, Art United
Aviva Studios, Factory International www.avivastudios.co.uk
There’s something for everyone to experience – from sound installations, play arenas, paintings, drawings, animation, sculpture and film to new genre-defying artworks and collaborations. Craft drop-ins over school holidays, free events or simply enjoy the outside space. Tickets from £7.50.
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!
LOOKING AHEAD
Wednesday 30th July
The Nantwich Show
Reaseheath College www.nantwichshow.org
Packed with fun for children of all ages. Budding farmers can take part in the Young Handler livestock competitions, while adventurers tackle the climbing wall or join the family treasure hunt. Creative kids will love the arts and crafts and floral arts marquees, and everyone can have a go at juggling and plate-spinning in the circus skills workshops.
Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd August
Day Out with Thomas East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
Join Sodor’s Number One Tank Engine and Meet Sir Topham Hatt on a spectacular Day Out with Thomas. Your day out will start at Bury where you’ll meet Sir Topham and say hello to Thomas, before climbing aboard a carriage for a ride with the Little Blue Engine up to Ramsbottom Station and back.
£1 OFF Adult tickets with code PT25
Join us for an exciting evening of live music, featuring 90s tribute acts! Free for all Tuesday ticket holders - the perfect way to end your day at the Show!
WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO PAW PATROL
PAW Patrol® Live!
“The Great Pirate Adventure” is coming to the AO Arena on Sunday 20th July!
Mayor Goodway is getting everything shipshape for a big Pirate Day celebration in Adventure Bay. When Cap’n Turbot falls into a dark and mysterious cavern, it’s PAW Patrol to the rescue! Chase, Marshall, Rubble, Skye, Rocky and Zuma save Cap’n Turbot and discover a secret pirate treasure map that leads them on an epic adventure. Do not miss this PAWsome opportunity to see the whole pack in this live touring stage performance.
To be in with a chance to win a Family Ticket to the local show of your choice, simply email your entry titled PAW Patrol to competitions@primarytimesmag.com and you will be placed into the prize draw. When you enter make sure you give us your name, address, email, child’s age and school. Good luck! Details will only be used to contact the winner of the competition.
Box OFFICE
A selection of family-friendly shows taking to the stage at local theatres over the coming months. Book your tickets now for pick of the best seats!
AO Arena
www.ao-arena.com
Sunday 20th July
PAW PATROL® LIVE!
This action-packed, music-filled production is based on the toprated animated preschool series PAW Patrol, produced by Spin Master Entertainment and airing on Nickelodeon. Guests will see Ryder and his team of pups embark on a pirate-themed adventure to uncover hidden treasure. Do not miss this PAWsome opportunity to see the whole pack in this live touring stage performance!
Lowry www.thelowry.com
Tuesday 27th May –Sunday 1st June
THERE’S A MONSTER IN YOUR SHOW
Tom Fletcher’s interactive adventures for big imaginations are leaping from page to stage, as the beloved ‘Who’s in Your Book?’ series makes its debut as a brand-new musical show.
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!
Wednesday 4th June
MUSIC AND PERFORMING ARTS SHOWCASE
Celebrate the talents of students from specialist schools across Greater Manchester in a very special show - Together Trust charity’s Music and Performing Arts Showcase! The performance will showcase a number of performances from students from the Together Trust’s specialist educational settings and other specialist schools.
Saturday 21st June
THE SHOWSTOPPERS’ KIDS SHOW
An improvised musical show for kids of all ages, from Olivier Award-winning West End improvisers, The Showstoppers. If your children could create their very own dream musical – where would they start?
The Showstoppers’ Kids Show takes your kids’ ideas and turns them into marvellous, musical adventures from scratch, in front of their very noses. From their imaginations to the stage – everything is made up on the spot entirely from audience suggestions, but grown-ups take heed: they only take suggestions from kids!
Tuesday 5th –Sunday 24th August
A SQUASH AND A SQUEEZE
A musical adaptation of the best-selling book. Once upon a time, a little old lady lived all by herself in her cosy cottage, but she wasn’t happy – her house felt just too small. Whatever could she do? Will the wise old man’s solution of bringing in a flappy, scratchy, greedy, noisy crowd of farmyard animals work? Join for this heartwarming and hilarious adventure, full of beautiful puppets and enchanting songs.
The Met www.themet.org.uk
Saturday 31st May YOU CHOOSE
Based on Pippa Goodhart and Nick Sharratt’s book, this family musical adventure lets you choose what happens! A unique family experience filled with games, challenges, and surprises. Ages 2-7.
Say you saw it in Primary Times
The Plaza www.stockportplaza.co.uk
Sunday 25th May
WOMAN LIKE ME: THE LITTLE MIX SHOW
The best-selling pop concert experience Woman Like Me: The Little Mix Show, returns on its UK Tour.
Z-arts www.z-arts.org
Saturday 17th May
THE ULTIMATE BUBBLE SHOW
This show promises a whirlwind of excitement and surprises, as Ray uses various gases to craft stunning bubble sculptures, effects, and magical displays. Ages 1+ and particularly suitable for children and adults with additional needs.
Saturday 31st May
SHLOMO’S BEATBOX ADVENTURE FOR KIDS
Join world record-breaking beatboxer SK Shlomo (they/ them) who makes amazing music with just a mouth and a mic and has performed around the world with legends like Bjork, Ed Sheeran and Rudimental.
THE ULTIMATE BUBBLE SHOW | Z-ARTS
PAW PATROL® LIVE! “THE GREAT PIRATE ADVENTURE” IS COMING TO MANCHESTER
The Pack is Back and on a Roll to the AO Arena on Sunday 20th July 2025
Nickelodeon and VStar Entertainment Group present PAW Patrol Live! “The Great Pirate Adventure.” This action-packed, music-filled production is based on the top-rated animated preschool series PAW Patrol, produced by Spin Master Entertainment and airing on Nickelodeon. Guests will see Ryder and his team of pups embark on a pirate-themed adventure to uncover hidden treasure. Do not miss this PAWsome opportunity to see the whole pack in this live touring stage performance. Sign up at www.PAWPatrolLive.co.uk for exclusive deals and to book your tickets for the two performances at the AO Arena! Secure your tickets before they are gone!
In PAW Patrol Live! “The Great Pirate Adventure,” Mayor Goodway is getting everything shipshape for a big Pirate Day celebration in Adventure Bay. When Cap’n Turbot falls into a dark and mysterious cavern, it’s PAW Patrol to the rescue! Chase, Marshall, Rubble, Skye, Rocky and Zuma save Cap’n Turbot and discover a secret pirate treasure map that leads them on an epic adventure. Things get ruff when Mayor Humdinger wants to find the treasure first for Foggy Bottom. The pups need all paws on deck for this pirate
adventure, including help from the newest pup who’s all ears… Tracker! Using their heroic rescue skills, problem solving and teamwork, the pups set sail to save the day. No job is too big, no pirate pup is too small!
PAW Patrol Live! “The Great Pirate Adventure” is the perfect way for families to create lifelong memories and provides kids the opportunity to experience in-person theatre. Since its debut in Autumn 2016, PAW Patrol Live! has been seen by over six million people, providing fans in over 40 countries with an unforgettable Broadway-style production. The performance is an interactive live stage show, encouraging audiences to learn pirate catchphrases, dance the pirate boogie and help the pups follow the treasure map and solve picture puzzles throughout their mission!
Don’t miss out – book your tickets now and join Ryder and the pups for this once-in-a-lifetime treasure hunt adventure!
AO Arena Manchester Sunday 20th July 2pm & 5.15pm
Free Registration
Save £s on our maths study programmes today! 1 - 30 June
Maths and English study programmes, available on paper and tablet.
Altrincham
07951 078744
Altrincham North 07784385806
Cheadle Hulme 07471 958866
Levenshulme 0161 248 4899 Moss side 07538 615111 Sale 07802 835616
