FREE MAGAZINE: WHAT’S Merseyside
41,100 COPIES FOR FAMILIES OF PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN
ON WHE RE GUIDE
BACK TO SCHOOL 2026 • ISSUE 109
7TH SEPTEMBER - 4TH OCTOBER 2026
www.primarytimes.co.uk
BACK TO SCHOOL • LOCAL NEWS • BOX OFFICE • WHAT’S ON WHERE
Open every day
1st to 31st October, 2026 9am to 6pm daily
Autumn is calling and Pumpkin Season is here! Plan your pumpkin day out with The Pumpkin Patch Hightown celebrating ten years open to the public! Huge pumpkins, traditional pumpkins, pretty pumpkins, and the weird and wonderful varieties! All pumpkins are grown by us on our 30 acre pumpkin farm. No booking required & no entrance fee. Pick your own pumpkins, sweetcorn and explore our free maize maze! Browse our weekend Artisan Market and take in our fun pumpkin photo ops! Safe, off-road parking, refreshments and toilets on site
Find us on Orrell Hill Lane, Hightown, L38 5DA
Hello Readers As a new school year begins, we’d like to warmly welcome all the new families joining reception classes. Primary Times Merseyside is a free local magazine sharing what’s on in the area, including the latest news and events. Created mainly for primary school families, Primary Times is published six times a year. Before most school holidays, a copy will come home in your child’s book bag, offering ideas for ways to enjoy time together. You can also pick up copies in selected libraries and leisure centres, or read Primary Times online. Our next issue will be out in October, packed with ideas for half term. Until then, enjoy the fresh start and excitement of a new school year, along with the changing season and all the colours it brings. Best wishes,
Louise
INSIDE Merseyside
04 08 ENJOY AUTUMN WOW 10 12 OUR SCHOOLS 14 BOX OFFICE LOCAL NEWS
The latest news from in and around Merseyside
Ideas for days out this season
What’s on Where – plan your weeks ahead
BACK TO SCHOOL 2026 PUBLISHED BY Moonscape Media Ltd 07710 229189 kerry@moonscapemedia.com EDITOR Louise Fry PRODUCTION Nathan Pretlove ADVERTISING Kerry Beardsmore LISTINGS EDITOR Suzanne Watson
Updates and Open Days from schools in the area
Family shows coming to the stage soon
Da ve Jo n ©
nes
eth Jo © Gar
es
Primary Times is independently published and distributed free through primary schools in Merseyside. It aims to inform families and children about current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses, attractions and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding to its contents or by joining in the competitions. It is NOT our intention to publish any racist, sexist or politically based material whatsoever. We also undertake not to carry any advertising which we would consider to be offensive to young families or harmful to the best interests of young children. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in Merseyside for their assistance in distributing the magazine and for their contributions to its contents. We would also like to thank all the advertisers who have supported this publication and therefore made it possible. Please support their endeavours when and where you can. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with Primary Times or with the relevant contributor. Primary Times is currently publishing over 2 million copies per issue under franchise licences throughout the UK. Primary Times Merseyside is operated under franchise licence.
www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside
BACK TO SCHOOL 2026 3
Local NEWS
Protect your child from flu, and yourself from cramp! Plus, plan your next party with Gravity MAX, a free workshop for your school, or book ahead for pantomime tickets to get your pick of the best seats.
The game changer
Cinderella arrives at The Auditorium, M&S Bank Arena Liverpool Saturday 12th – Tuesday 29th December This sparkling, family-friendly pantomime features a starstudded cast, including Strictly Come Dancing star Neil Jones and Liverpool’s own Bippo celebrating his 10th anniversary. Packed with show-stopping songs, dazzling dance routines, and enchanting special effects, it promises to be Liverpool’s biggest ever panto experience. Interactive VIP Meet and Greet packages are available on select dates, alongside a dedicated British Sign Language (BSL) interpreted performance on Monday 21st December. Perfect for all ages, book your magical festive tickets via M&S Bank Arena now! W: www.mandsbankarena.com
Peter Pan will be flying into St Helens this winter Saturday 28th November – Sunday 10th January The Pantomime Adventures of Peter Pan flies into St Helens Theatre Royal, with tickets from just £20. Starring The Chase favourite Mark ‘The Beast’ Labbett as Captain Hook and Strictly Come Dancing star Flavia Cacace as Tinkerbell, the cast also features Connor Darren James, Lauren McCrory, Lewis Devine and Richard Aucott. Packed with spectacular special effects, laughter, music and magical moments, this high-flying family adventure promises festive fun for all ages. Join Peter Pan, Wendy and the Lost Boys for an unforgettable Christmas pantomime filled with adventure, comedy and enchantment. W: www.sthelenstheatreroyal.com 4 BACK TO SCHOOL 2026
Cramp Killa is a recently launched product designed to support individuals who suffer from muscle fatigue and cramp, helping to restore performance when it matters most. In today’s busy world, maintaining a consistently active lifestyle is not always possible – and even when it is, motivation and recovery can become limiting factors. Cramp Killa offers fast, effective cramp relief, delivering a twostage functional response: an immediate neurological reset, followed by deep, systemic hydration. This combination is designed to help stop cramps within seconds and support rapid recovery. It can also be used proactively as a preventative measure, helping to reduce fatigue and cramping so you can continue to perform your activities without interruption. The product is available in two refreshing flavours: Electric Lime and Sunburst Orange, and it is already becoming a preferred choice among athletes, including Olympians and Commonwealth Games representatives. Cramp Killa proudly supports Brain Tumour Research, contributing to awareness and support for vital research initiatives. W: www.crampkilla.co.uk
Use code PT50 to get 50% OFF!
Give your child their best defence against flu Flu is more than just a bad cold. It can leave children feeling poorly with fever, aches, tiredness and coughs, and some children need hospital treatment every year. The flu vaccine is the best way to help protect your child and those around them. Most school-aged children are offered a quick nasal spray vaccine at school. Look out for the consent form and return it promptly so your child doesn’t miss out. Children with some long-term health conditions and those aged 2-3 years may also be vaccinated through their GP practice. If you would prefer a gelatine-free vaccine, please contact your GP practice or school immunisation team. W: www.nhs.uk/child-flu
Say you saw it in Primary Times www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside
Local NEWS
www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside
BACK TO SCHOOL 2026 5
Local NEWS
National Museums Liverpool are offering free school workshops for the rest of the year To mark their 40th anniversary, National Museums Liverpool are opening a fantastic programme of free school workshops across their venues this upcoming autumn and winter season, taking place at World Museum, Walker Art Gallery and Museum of Liverpool. Workshops are shaped to support the curriculum in subjects such as Art and Design, English, History, Geography, Science and social development – giving pupils the chance to play, learn and enrich their curiosity. All workshops taking place between September and December 2026 are free to attend for schools. Find out more about booking workshops at NML here: www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/learn/workshops
FREE
Make their next celebration one to remember with a Gravity MAX Kids Classic Party! Available Monday to Friday at an exclusive midweek price, you can enjoy all the excitement for less. Whether it’s a birthday, school holiday treat, team social or a day out with friends, Gravity MAX has everything covered. Choose from action-packed activities including E-Karting, AR Bowling, Urban Street Golf and more, then let the team take care of the mess. Just take the kids, the energy and the excitement – Gravity MAX will handle the rest! W: www.gravity-global.com/max/liverpool
Say you saw it in Primary Times
6 BACK TO SCHOOL 2026
www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside
Enjoy AUTUMN
It’s the start of a new school year, and the season is starting to change, but that doesn’t stop the fun! We have some lovely things to do in the area, with some great events, shows, and even pumpkins on the way.
FREE Open Day at Shakespeare North Playhouse Saturday 19th September
Visit Shakespeare North Playhouse on Saturday 19th September for a FREE Open Day celebrating Prescot’s rich heritage as part of Heritage Open Days. Inspired by this year’s theme, Everyday Histories, enjoy interactive workshops, behind-the-scenes experiences, family-friendly activities and the launch of their new Find My Seat accessibility experience. Discover the stories of Prescot’s industries, Shakespeare’s legacy, and the many ways this charity supports the local community through learning, artist development and fundraising. It’s also the perfect introduction to the autumn production of Macbeth. Full programme details coming soon. W: www.shakespearenorthplayhouse.co.uk
FREE
Autumn is calling and Pumpkin Season is on the way Thursday 1st – Saturday 31st October
Plan your pumpkin day out with The Pumpkin Patch Hightown, celebrating ten years of being open to the public! Huge pumpkins, traditional pumpkins, pretty pumpkins, and the weird and wonderful varieties! All pumpkins are grown by The Pumpkin Patch on their 30-acre pumpkin farm. Open every day 9am-6pm during October, there is no booking required and no entrance fee. Pick your own pumpkins, sweetcorn and explore the free maize maze! Plus, browse the weekend Artisan Market if you’re there on a Saturday or Sunday, and make the most of the pumpkin fun photo ops! Safe, off-road parking, refreshments and toilets on site. Find The Pumpkin Patch Hightown on Orrell Hill Lane, Hightown, L38 5DA. Instagram: @thepumpkinpatchhightown Facebook: /thepumpkinpatchhightown
Back-to-school fun at The Atkinson There are plenty of opportunities to learn, explore and be entertained at The Atkinson in Southport. On stage, children’s classic Dear Zoo (Tuesday 22nd September and Wednesday 23rd September) is sure to delight audiences with a magical mix of puppetry, music and interactive fun. The Rubbish Shakespeare Company presents a family-friendly take on Romeo & Juliet (Saturday 26th September), packed with slapstick, clowning and chaos. Families can also enjoy free entry to The Atkinson’s museum and galleries, where local history, art and culture can be discovered all year round. Plan your visit online. W: www.theatkinson.co.uk 8 BACK TO SCHOOL 2026
www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside
Enjoy AUTUMN
www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside
BACK TO SCHOOL 2026 9
WOW
Saturday 19th September FREE Open Day
What’s on Where in Merseyside ONGOING Museum & Galleries The Atkinson www.theatkinson.co.uk Families can enjoy free entry to The Atkinson’s museum and galleries, where local history, art and culture can be discovered all year round.
FREE
National Museums Liverpool at 40 World Museum www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk Forty years since the Merseyside Museums and Galleries Order was presented to Queen Elizabeth II, you’re invited to dig, dive and delve into the vast collections, to celebrate four decades of Liverpool’s national museum network. This exhibition is running until February 2027.
Kids Parties Gravity MAX www.gravity-global.com/max/liverpool Available Monday to Friday at an exclusive midweek price, you can enjoy all the excitement for less. Choose from action-packed activities including E-Karting, AR Bowling, Urban Street Golf and more.
Free School Workshops National Museums Liverpool www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/learn/ workshops To mark their 40th anniversary, National Museums Liverpool are opening a fantastic programme of free school workshops at World Museum, Walker Art Gallery and Museum of Liverpool. Workshops are shaped to support the curriculum, giving pupils the chance to play, learn and enrich their curiosity. All workshops taking place between September and December 2026 are FREE to attend for schools.
FREE
10 BACK TO SCHOOL 2026
Shakespeare North Playhouse www.shakespearenorthplayhouse.co.uk Don’t miss this FREE Open Day celebrating Prescot’s rich heritage as part of Heritage Open Days. Inspired by this year’s theme, Everyday Histories, enjoy interactive workshops, behind-the-scenes experiences, family-friendly activities and the launch of their new Find My Seat accessibility experience.
FREE
Running until Sunday 1st November Wild Things
FREE
Lowry www.thelowry.com A new free exhibition that will take young children and their families on a fun‑filled animal adventure through some of the most loved stories of all time. From beloved classics including Elmer, Dear Zoo, Owl Babies, There’s a Tiger in the Garden and lots more, the exhibition brings together stories that generations of families love, alongside almost 100 original illustrations. The exhibition also includes lots of fun interactives and games designed especially for under‑7s.
Saturday 12th September
Saturday 26th September Construction Club The Atkinson www.theatkinson.co.uk Calling all young inventors, creators, and builders! 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. 10.30am12.30pm.
FREE
Bluey & Bingo 2026 East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk See Bluey and Bingo at Bury Transport Museum at intervals throughout the day. 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. Complete your day out with a ride aboard one of the heritage steam or diesel trains through the Irwell valley. Your general admission ticket includes a complimentary ride on any train services on the day of your visit – just pick the time that suits you!
Saturday 12th & Sunday 13th September
Truckfest North West 2026 Cheshire Showground, Knutsford www.truckfest.co.uk/truckfest-north-west Be amazed by car-crushing monster trucks and arena stunt shows. Meet special guests and enjoy live music. Take part in exhilarating rides and see some incredible, award-winning truck displays. Taste delicious refreshments and browse a wide variety of retail stands. You can even make a weekend of it and book a camping pass; this includes your pitch, vehicle pass and show entry across the entire weekend!
Saturday 3rd & Sunday 4th October Day Out With Thomas East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk Hop onboard a train ride with Thomas, a REAL steam engine, watch the exciting live shows with Sodor Station Sweepers Rusty & Dusty that’ll have the whole family dancing, join in the Thomas and Friends™ character hunt, have fun with garden games and keep the beat going at the Music Corner packed with music-inspired fun, plus much more! Book tickets for your train ride adventure today to enjoy a whole day out, with all the family!
Friday 23rd October – Sunday 1st November Gandeys Circus Spooktacular Trentham www.gandeyscircus.com Step inside the Big Top for a spectacular live show packed with breathtaking circus skills, incredible performers, spooky surprises and plenty of laughter. With dazzling costumes, thrilling entertainment and a magical Halloween atmosphere, it’s the perfect seasonal treat for all. Use code PT20 to get 20% OFF tickets. T&Cs apply.
Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th October Thursday 1st – Saturday 31st October Pumpkin Picking The Pumpkin Patch Hightown @thepumpkinpatchhightown Huge pumpkins, traditional pumpkins, pretty pumpkins, and the weird and wonderful varieties! Open every day 9am-6pm, no booking required and no entrance fee. Pick your own pumpkins, sweetcorn and explore the free maize maze! Plus, an Artisan Market on the weekends and lots of fun photo ops! Safe, off-road parking, refreshments and toilets on site. Orrell Hill Lane, Hightown, L38 5DA.
Blast off for a Grand Day Out Jodrell Bank www.jodrellbank.net Watch Wallace & Gromit: A Grand Day Out inside the spectacular Space Dome, with the film brought to life by musicians performing the soundtrack live. Join Wallace and Gromit as their search for cheese takes them all the way to the Moon, where a mysterious mechanical visitor awaits. Families can also book a clay workshop (£6 per person) to make a plasticine moon together, meet the musicians and pose for a photograph with Wallace & Gromit.
Sunday 25th October Relaxed Performance
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!
Jodrell Bank www.jodrellbank.net Watch Wallace & Gromit: A Grand Day Out inside the spectacular Space Dome, with the film brought to life by musicians performing the soundtrack live. A SEN-friendly performance will take place on Sunday morning 10.30-11.15am for families who prefer a more relaxed experience. www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside
Our SCHOOLS
Here we have the latest updates from some of our local schools and colleges, with details of upcoming Open Days too, giving you the opportunity to take a look for yourself.
Seal of approval for St. Mary’s from Independent Schools Inspectors
An award-winning independent school is closer than you think Looking beyond Liverpool for school could open doors closer than you think. Just 15 minutes from the city centre, Birkenhead School is making access even easier with free transport for primary pupils throughout Prep and a year’s free travel for new starters in Seniors. Dedicated South Liverpool bus routes mean a safe, straightforward journey to outstanding teaching, exceptional facilities and an outstanding co-curricular programme. As more Liverpool families choose to cross the Mersey for its award-winning education, competition for places continues to grow – making early applications an important first step for families considering a move. Visit the School for the Prep Open Morning on Friday 13th November and see for yourself why The Good Schools Guide said ‘there is something a little bit magical about Birkenhead Prep’ when they visited the School in May. W: www.birkenheadschool.co.uk
St. Mary’s College & Preparatory School in Crosby has received the seal of approval from inspectors from the UK’s national independent schools watchdog. Following a three-day inspection visit, assessors from the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) concluded that the school meets all five key standards they have set. This is the best possible outcome the school could achieve under the ISI’s revamped assessment system which no longer uses one-word, Ofsted-style gradings. The assessors’ verdict on the school covered key areas such the quality of education, the physical and mental health of students, safeguarding, leadership and management and the social and economic education of pupils and their contribution to society. St. Mary’s are holding an Open Evening on Thursday 17th September 4-7pm, and an Open Morning on Saturday 19th September 10am-12noon. Why not pay them a visit and see for yourself what makes St. Mary’s so special. T: 0151 924 3926 W: www.stmarys.ac/open-events
St. Mary’s Principal Mike Kennedy (centre) pictured with Early Years Head Alice Haigh and Preparatory School Headmaster Jonathan Webster and pupils from all three phases of the school.
Discover Further Education opportunities at Knowsley College Just started Year 11? This final year will fly by. Before you know it, you will be thinking about the future and it’s never too early to consider next steps. Knowsley Community College open events on Wednesday 4th November, Wednesday 3rd February and Wednesday 14th April are a great opportunity to explore courses, meet the tutors, look around the facilities and get a real feel for college life. Whether students have already chosen a career path or are just starting to think along those lines, attending an open event can help shape their choices. W: www.knowsleycollege.ac.uk
12 BACK TO SCHOOL 2026
www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside
Our SCHOOLS
Extra-Curricular Activities at Kirkby High School This year students across all year groups have shown amazing confidence and aspiration in getting involved in the wide ranging extra-curricular offer at Kirkby High School. As well as their fantastic sports offer and the ever-popular culture club and Warhammer club, this year has seen the launch of several new clubs including chess, book club, crochet, crafts and a jigsaw club! As well as the extra-curricular offer, staff have worked hard to provide a wider variety of trips and visits to inspire students and build their aspirations. Kirkby High students were a credit to the school with their respect, resilience, and kindness on all the visits. Why not visit one of the Open Mornings on Tuesday 22nd and Wednesday 23rd September 9-11am, or the Open Evening on Thursday 24th September 6-8.30pm to find out more. W: www.kirkbyhighschool.net
www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside
Visit St. Julie’s, a vibrant all-girls secondary school 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.” As St Julie’s celebrates the 175th anniversary of Notre Dame Education in Liverpool this year, there has never been a better time to meet the Headteacher, staff and students at the open event on Thursday 17th September from 3.30-6pm. Find out more at www.stjulies.org.uk
BACK TO SCHOOL 2026 13
Box OFFICE
A selection of shows and performances coming to a stage near you! Some of these are a great way to introduce children to the world of theatre, music and dance. The Atkinson
M&S Bank Arena
www.theatkinson.co.uk
www.mandsbankarena.com
Tuesday 22nd & Wednesday 23rd September
Saturday 19th September
DEAR ZOO The timeless children’s classic book returns to the stage! See characters write to the Zoo. Who will be delivered? A cheeky monkey, a jumpy frog and of course a perfect puppy. 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.
Saturday 26th September
ROMEO & JULIET The Rubbish Shakespeare Company presents a tragedy like no other. Three hapless idiots attempt the Bard’s most famous love story using nothing but a box of tatty wigs, a worn floral dress, and a burst airbed found by the bins. A riotous hour of frenetic slapstick, clowning and fourthwall-breaking chaos. Taking huge liberties with the original text, the company splices Shakespeare’s classic lines with modern gags, physical comedy and gloriously silly storytelling that keeps everyone – from age 5 to 105 – completely hooked. Winner of Best Kids Show (Leicester Comedy Festival 2026), this joyful production throws out the dusty rules of high art and celebrates the ridiculous heart of Shakespeare – and theatre itself.
BE LIKE BLIPPI TOUR
This brand-new show is packed with high-energy music and surprises, featuring fan-favourite songs like “The Excavator Song,” “Monster Truck,” “Dino Dance,” and “Curious Like Me.” With Blippi’s signature mix of play, learning, and exploration, families can get curious together while singing, laughing, and dancing along during this unforgettable adventure full of fun and discovery. For the Be Like Blippi Tour, the characters Blippi and Meekah will be played by professional stage performers selected specifically for the tour.
Saturday 12th – Sunday 27th December
CINDERELLA
Experience the magic of Cinderella, a sparkling pantomime for the whole family. Packed with dazzling songs, stunning costumes, and enchanting special effects, it’s a festive treat not to be missed!
SAY YTOUIN SAW I
DEAR ZOO | THE ATKINSON
Shakespeare North Playhouse www.shakespearenorthplayhouse.co.uk
Friday 11th September – Saturday 3rd October
MACBETH What would you destroy to get what you want? A dagger. A crown. The original text. One musician. Ten storytellers. Fifty candles. Ninety breathless minutes. Step into the shadows. Let the scorpions in your mind strike. Watch a world turn inside-out beneath a tyrant’s rule. Recommended age 12+.
St Helens Theatre Royal www.sthelenstheatreroyal.com
Wednesday 7th & Thursday 8th October
DEAR ZOO The timeless children’s classic book returns to the stage! See the characters write to the Zoo. Who will be delivered? A cheeky monkey, a jumpy frog and of course a perfect puppy. 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.
BE LIKE BLIPPI TOUR | M&S BANK ARENA 14 BACK TO SCHOOL 2026
Saturday 24th October – Sunday 1st November
GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE BEARS A spectacular family pantomime! The circus is in town, bringing jaw-dropping circus acts, laugh-out-loud comedy, stunning production values, and a soundtrack packed with chart-topping hits that will have the whole family singing and dancing along. Join Goldilocks and her furry friends as they fight to save the Big Top from a ruthless rival circus owner in an unforgettable adventure filled with excitement, music, mayhem and plenty of panto magic.
Saturday 28th November – Sunday 10th January
THE PANTOMIME ADVENTURES OF PETER PAN The Chase’s superstar quizzer Mark ‘the Beast’ Labbett is set to take on the role of Pan’s dastardly hook-handed nemesis in the unmissable new production. Family audiences can expect plenty of unforgettable magical moments as the thrilling, highflying adventure unfolds on the Theatre Royal stage, putting the ‘Pan’ firmly into panto.
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! www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside