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 six magazines throughout the academic year, providing a ‘what’s on and where to go’ guide for families in Merseyside. 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 from 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!
Louise
An array of on-stage shows near you
Local NEWS
A round up of news from around Merseyside, including some helpful travel and childcare options for the new school year, and an offer for a free taster session in a performing arts class.
Mirror, mirror on the wall… who has the fairest panto of them all?
Join Snow White and her seven little friends in a magical adventure full of fun, laughter, and enchantment! With dazzling costumes, stunning scenery, catchy songs, and hilarious moments for all ages, this spectacular pantomime promises a truly unforgettable day out for the whole family. Will Snow White escape the Wicked Queen and find her Prince Charming? Only one way to find out! Packed with sparkle, excitement and festive cheer, this is a must-see treat for Christmas 2025. Book now for the fairest panto in all the land! W: www.mandsbankarena.com
Wraparound Childcare: back to school with less stress
Wraparound childcare is before and after school care designed for Working Families. It is often run on a school site, or at another setting in the local area, for example in a nursery, and provides before and afterschool care for primaryaged children during term time, typically between the hours of 8am until 6pm.
It’s great news for parents of primary school aged children – as you can expect to see an increase in the number of wraparound childcare places available across schools in England. Take the stress out of your mornings and evenings, with peace of mind knowing your children are in great hands. Wraparound offers children a safe, supportive place to play with friends, whilst helping parents and carers juggle work and childcare more flexibly.
How to access Wraparound care?
Speak directly with your child’s school! Your school will set their own fees for wraparound care, and you can pay them directly. Plus, if you’re eligible, you can use your Tax-free childcare or Universal Credit Childcare to help pay for your child’s place. For more information, visit www.childcarechoices.gov.uk or contact your child’s school.
Book a free taster session for your child at Razzamataz
This September, Razzamataz Liverpool South invites local children to a ‘Back to School’ experience unlike any other. Based at St Hilda’s High School in Sefton Park, their expertled classes in dance, drama and singing offer a brilliant boost of creativity, confidence, and friendship. Best of all? You can try it for FREE! A free taster session gives your child a fun peek into the awardwinning curriculum, from pop-singing to street-dance and musical theatre. Spaces are limited, so book early to secure your place today. Don’t miss out – let your child shine in this vibrant performing-arts family. Call or WhatsApp Gemma to book, on 07778 525199.
Back to school? Let Stagecoach get you there!
Uniform? Check. New supplies? Check. Ride to school? … don’t worry – Stagecoach has it sorted! Stagecoach offer a range of great value single or day and weekly tickets offering unlimited travel across Merseyside – perfect for getting to school, after-school clubs, or weekend adventures. It’s easy on your wallet and super flexible.
Want even more peace of mind? The Stagecoach Bus App lets you plan, track, and buy tickets in a tap. Know exactly when the bus is coming – no more waiting in the rain! Get your ticket today at www.stagecoachbus.com
Download the app and travel smart this term! Stagecoach –school runs made simple.
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.
Don’t miss Blackstock Market’s Free Family Funday
Get ready for an amazing day of family fun at Blackstock Market. Blackstock Market’s FREE Family Fundays run every Sunday from 10am-1pm. They have a fantastic range of activities including entertainers, music, games, face painting, mascots, hair braiding, soft play, dancing and so much more. And after the Funday, you can carry on the laughs at Hot Water Comedy Club’s FREE Comedy for Kids show from 1-2pm. With a lineup that changes weekly, there’s always something new for the whole family! Best of all, entry is completely FREE as a way to give back to the community and spread positivity! Enjoy some fantastic Sundays. W: www.blackstockmarket.co.uk
Theatre for kids – watching and performing on offer at Shakespeare North Playhouse
Looking for ways to keep little ones entertained as they settle into a new school routine? There’s plenty coming up at Shakespeare North Playhouse, from creative classes to fun-filled productions.
The Tempest runs from 3rd to 25th October and offers a brilliant introduction to Shakespeare. For budding performers, the Shakespeare North Young Company is here! Offering weekly sessions for children aged 7-16 and building confidence through drama, creativity, and performance, all led by experienced theatre professionals. And if you’re already dreaming of twinkling fairy lights, don’t miss Cinderella – a magical, laughout-loud tale of family, friendship, and festive fun.
Visit The Pumpkin Patch Hightown this season
Find your perfect pumpkins across acres of home-grown fields for a wholesome family outing this October. Open 9am to 6pm each day from Wednesday 1st until Friday 31st October, with no booking necessary. Pick your own pumpkins and sweetcorn, get lost in the free maize maze and enjoy many photo opportunities! The Pumpkin Patch is famous for their giant pumpkins, so borrow a wheelbarrow, wear your wellies and see what amazing pumpkins you can find. Best of all, there is no admission charge. Find The Pumpkin Patch on Orrell Hill Lane, L38 5DA. Instagram: @thepumpkinpatchhightown
Loads to do at The Atkinson this season
Looking for a fun-filled day out bursting with creativity, imagination, and entertainment for all ages? Head to The Atkinson in Southport, a vibrant cultural hub offering something for everyone! Enjoy free exhibitions, interactive displays, and hands-on activities that will inspire curiosity in both kids and adults alike. This September don’t miss the hilarious stage show ‘Horrible Histories: Gorgeous Georgians & Vile Victorians’ (5th & 6th September), packed with all the gruesome bits history class left out. And for younger audiences, ‘Pirates Love Underpants’ (25th & 26th September) promises a laugh-out-loud, swashbuckling adventure. Discover more and plan your visit online.
W: www.theatkinson.co.uk
W: www.shakespearenorthplayhouse.co.uk
WOW
What’s on Where In Merseyside
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!
ONGOING
Performing Arts Classes
Razzamataz Liverpool South 07778 525199
Based at St Hilda’s High School in Sefton Park, the expert led classes in dance, drama and singing offer a brilliant boost of creativity, confidence and friendship. FREE taster sessions available.
Non-Stop Family Fun
Liverpool ONE www.liverpool-one.com
From the exhilarating Gravity MAX, offering everything from VR experiences and e-Karting to e-bowling and an arcade, to the immersive escape rooms at Escape
Live and fun-filled rounds of golf at Junkyard Golf Club, Liverpool ONE is bursting with action. And don’t miss the quirky Upside Down House, the perfect spot for the ultimate photo opportunity!
Family Entertainment
The Atkinson, Southport www.theatkinson.co.uk
A vibrant cultural hub offering something for everyone! Enjoy free exhibitions, interactive displays, and hands-on activities that will inspire curiosity in both kids and adults alike.
Until Sunday 28th September
Bees: A Story of Survival
World Museum Liverpool www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/bees
Inspired by World Museum’s vast entomology collection and designed and produced by artist Wolfgang Buttress, this family-friendly exhibition takes you on a journey to discover the sights, sounds and scents that bees experience. Step into the hive, communicate through bone conductor vibrations or dance alongside a soundscape of 30,000 bees in Symphony.
KIDS GO FREE
Every Tuesday
Baby Bards
Shakespeare North Playhouse
www.shakespearenorthplayhouse.co.uk
Join the Learning & Engagement Team for an early years story and language session for preschool children aged 18 months to four years old. Introducing story, letters and phonics through readings and fun activities, your little ones will be bards in no time.
Every Wednesday
Story & Rhyme Time
The Atkinson, Southport www.theatkinson.co.uk
Explore stories through rhyme and help develop your child’s language and communication skills while meeting other parents and carers. Together with the friendly librarians, babies and under-fives will enjoy learning new songs, dancing, and making friends. 11.30am-12.15pm.
Sunday 7th September
Free Family Funday
Blackstock Market
www.blackstockmarket.co.uk
Don’t miss these brand-new Fundays! Join every Sunday from 10am for a fantastic range of activities. Each week may include fun such as face painting, balloon animals, mascots, magicians, soft play, movies, live music, dancing, incredible reptile and creepy crawly shows, and lots more. Best of all, entry is completely FREE.
You can attend both of these great free events one after the other!
Hot Water’s Comedy for Kids
Blackstock Market
www.blackstockmarket.co.uk
Each week, enjoy a fantastic variety of family-friendly shows, ranging from mixed lineups featuring multiple comedians to solo performances, including magic shows, stunt acts, improv, and more – perfect for children aged 6+ and their families. With a lineup that changes weekly, there’s always something new and exciting to experience. This show is a FREE event, but due to limited spaces it is a ticketed event, so be sure to book your tickets online.
Thursday 11th September
Relaxed Screenings
World Museum Liverpool www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
A planetarium screening tailored to visitors with sensory sensitivities.
Saturday 20th September
Bluey and Bingo
East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
Bluey and Bingo will be appearing at intervals in the Bury Transport Museum, don’t forget to take your cameras! There will also be a fun fair with three rides suitable for toddlers, face painters, petting zoo and craft activities for you and the family to enjoy, all included in the general admission ticket price. You can book your tickets online now.
Sunday 21st September
Gigs for Kids
Mosh Tots Future Yard www.futureyard.org
Mosh Tots is the hippest, hottest party in town! Aimed at children aged 1-8, Mosh Tots introduces young people to the rockin’ world of live music in a safe and fun environment. This is an opportunity to share the joy of live music together as a family. Grown-ups go FREE with a child ticket.
Say you saw it in Primary Times
Saturday 27th September
Construction Club
The Atkinson, Southport www.theatkinson.co.uk
LEGO® Adventures at The Atkinson! Calling all young inventors, creators, and builders! Join the Construction Club and unleash your imagination with a massive supply of LEGO® bricks. Construction Club takes place on the last Saturday of each month. Admission is free, but spaces are limited, so please arrive in good time. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
Jamboree Weekend
Gulliver’s Theme Park, Warrington www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk
Uniformed or badge groups can enjoy an incredible discounted admission price of just £12 per person for a group of 20 or more, plus one free leader place with every nine children. This includes access to all regular theme park rides, attractions and shows, as well as a number of themed activities.
Sunday 28th September
Free Family Funday
Blackstock Market
www.blackstockmarket.co.uk
Don’t miss these brand-new Fundays! Join every Sunday from 10am for a fantastic range of activities. Each week may include fun such as face painting, balloon animals, mascots, magicians, soft play, movies, live music, dancing, incredible reptile and creepy crawly shows, and lots more. Best of all, entry is completely FREE.
These events both run every Sunday!
Hot Water’s Comedy for Kids
Blackstock Market
www.blackstockmarket.co.uk
Each week, enjoy a fantastic variety of family-friendly shows, ranging from mixed lineups featuring multiple comedians to solo performances, including magic shows, stunt acts, improv, and more – perfect for children aged 6+ and their families. With a lineup that changes weekly, there’s always something new and exciting to experience. This show is a FREE event, but due to limited spaces it is a ticketed event, so be sure to book your tickets online.
Wednesday 1st-Friday 31st October
The Pumpkin Patch
Orrell Hill Lane, Hightown @thepumpkinpatchhightown
Famous for giant pumpkins! Open 9am-6pm every day in October and there is no need to book. There are thousands of pumpkins to choose from, plus pick your own sweetcorn and enjoy the FREE maize maze too!
Friday 3rd-Sunday 5th October
Bennetts British Superbike Championship
Oulton Park
www.oultonpark.co.uk
Title contenders will battle it out around the International Circuit, with machinery from Ducati, BMW, Honda, Yamaha and more, piloted by star riders including Tommy Bridewell, Glenn Irwin and Leon Haslam.
Saturday 4th October
Wirral Poetry Festival
Lady Lever Art Gallery
www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
Children are invited to draw, write and create with acclaimed local poet and artist Celia Gentles, who will be exploring some of the themes of this year’s festival.
Saturday 4th & Sunday 5th
October
Grandparents Weekend
Gulliver’s Theme Park, Warrington www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk
Two grandparents get free entry when accompanied by one full paying person throughout Grandparents Weekend!
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 to Ramsbottom Station. Once one of the dazzling diesel trains takes you and Thomas back to Bury you’ll find Bury Transport Museum and more Thomas themed activities, including performances by Rusty and Dusty – Sodor’s cheeky station sweepers. There’s also face painting, balloon modelling, tabletop activities and four fun fair rides suitable for toddlers.
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 and 18th & 19th October.
Sunday 5th October
Apple Day
Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk
A celebration of the humble apple in the Gardens.
Saturday 25th October Spooky Welly Walk
Sefton Park, Liverpool | www.roycastle.org
Spooky Welly Walk returns to Liverpool’s Sefton Park, promising a bigger, better and creepier day out for families! Perfect for children aged 3-8, this two-mile Halloweenthemed trail is packed with eerie entertainment, creepy crafts, slime-making, and more – most activities are included in the ticket price. Starting at the Sefton Park Obelisk and finishing with a medal from the legendary Spooky Welly witch, it’s a fangtastic, screen-free adventure for just £8 per person or £30 for a family of four. With 9,000 participants expected and time slots between 10.45am and 3.15pm, tickets vanish fast – book now to avoid missing out! Raising funds for Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, the UK’s only charity dedicated solely to all forms of lung cancer.
Saturday 11th & Sunday 12th October
Quince and Apple Weekend
Norton Priory Museum and Gardens www.nortonpriory.org/events
Quince and Apple Weekend returns to Norton Priory with a fun event for all the family.
Saturday 25th OctoberSunday 2nd November
Halloween Spooktacular Big Top Show
Trentham www.gandey.com
Gandeys Circus returns once again with 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, rolling in the aisles with laughter, and hiding under your coats from the spooky thrills.
Use code PT5 to get £5 off ringside seats.
October Half Term
Jodrell Bank www.jodrellbank.net
Launch into October half term with an exciting new science show, get handson with space crafts, catch special screenings of ‘Ted’s Space Adventure’, and discover the great outdoors with the adventurous site trail!
Thursday 30th OctoberSaturday 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 celebrate the Year of the BAT!
November Opening
Step into Wonderland
Bents Garden and Home www.bents.co.uk
Get ready for Alice’s magical Adventures! Start your journey by meeting the White Rabbit, then follow the twinkling lights and amazing sounds through a wonderous trail in the Hidden Garden. Say hello to the Caterpillar on his mushroom, grin back at the Cheshire Cat, watch out for the Queen of Hearts, and don’t miss the maddest tea party ever! Enjoy yummy festive treats and drinks along the way.
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!
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.
Kirkby High works in partnership with families
Kirkby High School is committed to working in partnership with parents and carers to maximise the potential of the students in the community. Staff have enjoyed inviting parents to school to celebrate student achievement at Progress and Aspiration Evenings, as well as at a SEND Celebration Evening, GCSE Awards Evening and at music events and an Oliver production. Kirkby High was delighted by the commitment shown at their Gifted and Talented Evening, Literacy and Numeracy Intervention Evening and Work Experience Information Evenings where parents and staff worked together to support students in achieving the very best. As a symbol of their commitment to working in partnership with parents and carers, the school is making excellent progress in their reaccreditation of the Leading Parent Partnership Award. Visit their Open Evening on Thursday 18th September to find out more.
W: www.kirkbyhighschool.net
Birkenhead School - Named Independent Secondary School of the Year
Don’t miss the Open Morning at The Belvedere Academy
Join staff and pupils at The Belvedere Academy’s Open Morning on Friday 5th 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 call 0151 727 1284 or visit www.belvedereacademy.net
Knowsley Community College is still recruiting for September
There’s still time to secure a place and take the next step toward a successful future. The College offers a wide range of school leaver technical courses, T Levels, and apprenticeships, all supported by a tailored personal development plan. It’s not just about qualifications, students leave with the skills, relationships, and experiences they need to thrive in their careers. If you know a young person aged 16-18 who’s still undecided or unhappy with their current choice, it’s not too late to make a change.
Visit www.knowsleycollege.ac.uk/its-nottoolate to find out how to enrol.
Now is the perfect time to join Birkenhead School –recently named Independent Secondary School of the Year (North West). With dedicated Liverpool bus services, it’s never been easier for families across Merseyside to access an exceptional education. Birkenhead School is a top choice for those seeking academic excellence, outstanding pastoral care, and exceptional co-curricular opportunities across sport, music, drama, and beyond. Discover why more Liverpool families are making the move. Visit the School at their Seniors Open Evening on Thursday 9th October or Prep Open Morning (Reception to Year 6) on Friday 14th November. See website for more information.
W: www.birkenheadschool.co.uk
St Julie’s supports girls from age 11 to 18 with new Sixth Form centre
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.
The 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”
Their magnificent new Sixth Form centre makes St Julie’s the perfect choice to support your daughter from 11 right through to 18.
To find out more about a place for your daughter, check online or visit to meet their new Headteacher, staff and students at the open event on Thursday 18th September from 4-6pm.
W: www.stjulies.org.uk
Visit Merchant Taylors’ on Open Morning
Merchant Taylors’ warmly invite you to their 2025 Open Morning, which takes place on Saturday 11th October between 9.30am and 12.30pm. Merchant Taylors’ gives your child the platform to broaden their horizons, harness their ambition and take the first steps to a successful, happy life. Visit the Open Morning to get a taste of life at Merchant Taylors’, discover the excellent facilities and meet wonderful pupils and dedicated staff. Parents and children will have an opportunity to tour the schools, take part in engaging activities and hear more about exciting plans for the future of this historic school. Find out more and register to attend online.
W: www.merchanttaylors.com
Box OFFICE
Some of the best family shows on stage for now, plus some more to book ahead for later in the season.
The Atkinson www.theatkinson.co.uk
Friday 5th & Saturday 6th September
HORRIBLE HISTORIES: GORGEOUS
GEORGIANS & VILE VICTORIANS
Dive into the gruesome past. We all want to meet people from history! The trouble is everyone is dead! So, it’s time to prepare for Horrible Histories live on stage with the acclaimed production of Gorgeous Georgians and Vile Victorians. Don’t miss this horrible history of Britain with the nasty bits left in!
Thursday 25th & Friday 26th September
PIRATES LOVE UNDERPANTS
Based on the beloved book by Claire Freedman and Ben Cort. These pirates SO love underpants! Join the swashbuckling party of pirates on their quest to find the fabled Pants of Gold for the Captain’s Treasure chest. Dodge hungry crocs beneath Long-John Bridge, bob upon the waves of Big Knickers Bay, spot sharks in fancy underpants and trek across Three Pants Ridge. Filled with music, puppetry and glittering pants of gold, arrr you ready to set sail for a family adventure?
Saturday 11th October
COMEDY CLUB 4 KIDS
Cracking entertainment for everyone over six years old and under 400 years old (no vampires). Since 2005, the Comedy Club 4 Kids has been getting the best stand-ups and sketch acts from the international circuit to do their thing for an audience of children and their families… but without the rude bits! It’s just like a normal comedy club, but it’s on in the day, kids are allowed in, and thus there is a higher than usual chance of heckles like “why is that your face!?”. 2-3pm. £10 per ticket plus booking fee.
Monday 27th October
TAYLORMANIA: TAYLOR SWIFT ERAS ULTIMATE TRIBUTE
An award-winning extravaganza that plays tribute to one of the leading contemporary artists of our time. Katy Ellis, a self-obsessed ‘Swiftie’ with an incredible live band and dancers will deliver the most authentic recreation of a Taylor experience. The show has already taken ‘Swiftie’ fans across the world by storm.
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.
M&S Bank Arena www.mandsbankarena.com
Sunday 21st September
BITTER SWEET: SABRINA & OLIVIA Carpenters and Livvies alike will rejoice in a spectacular show packed with pop smash-hits, heartbreak anthems, and the undeniable thrill of friendly rivalry. Bitter Sweet is the ultimate concert production to the pop icons and is set to captivate audiences of all ages with a high-energy concert experience.
Saturday 1st & Sunday 2nd November
GLADIATORS LIVE TOUR
Get ready for the ultimate action-packed experience, as Gladiators Live Tour makes its global debut in arenas across the UK for the very first time in 2025! Featuring the new stars of the UK TV series Gladiators, the live show will be a spectacular, high-octane two-hour show with all the fan-favourite events and the ultimate Eliminator. Matinee and evening shows are available for both dates.
Shakespeare North Playhouse
www.shakespearenorthplayhouse.co.uk
Friday 3rd-Saturday 25th October
THE TEMPEST
Ousted former Duke Prospero and his daughter Miranda have been exiled to a remote island with only sprites, monsters and books for company. This is until Prospero conjures up a mystical storm to shipwreck the court of Milan onto the island’s shores. The new arrivals quickly learn that nothing is as it seems…. Magic, music, mayhem and mishaps rapidly unfold. Dive into Shakespeare’s timeless tale of intrigue and wonder in the HandleBards signature style of joyfully irreverent and environmentally friendly storytelling.
St Helens Theatre
Royal
www.sthelenstheatreroyal.com
Saturday 25th-Friday 31st October
THE WIZARD OF OZ –AUTUMN PANTO
A dazzling pantomime adventure for the whole family! Follow Dorothy and her trusty dog Toto as a magical tornado whisks them away from Kansas to the vibrant and mysterious Land of Oz. To find her way home, Dorothy must travel the legendary Yellow Brick Road to the Emerald City, where she hopes the mysterious Wizard can grant her wish. Along the way, she makes three unforgettable friends: a brainless but loveable Scarecrow, a Tin Man in search of a heart, and a Lion who’s desperate to find his roar. This spellbinding production promises jawdropping scenery, glittering costumes, toe-tapping musical numbers, and belly-laughs galore.
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!
