Issuu

35,500 COPIES FOR FAMILIES

OF PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN FREE MAGAZINE: WHAT’S ON WHE RE GUIDE Greater Manchester

BACK TO SCHOOL 2026 • ISSUE 205 7TH SEPTEMBER – 4TH OCTOBER 2026

BACK TO SCHOOL • LOCAL NEWS • BOX OFFICE • ENJOY AUTUMN

flu: 5 reasons to vaccinate your child 1. Protect your child

The vaccine will help protect your child against flu and serious complications such as bronchitis and pneumonia

2. Protect you, your family and friends Vaccinating your child will help protect more vulnerable friends and family

3. No injection needed The nasal spray is painless and easy to have

4. It’s better than having flu

The nasal spray helps protect against flu, has been given to millions of children worldwide and has an excellent safety record

5. Avoid costs

If your child gets flu, you may have to take time off work or arrange alternative childcare

Most children have the nasal spray vaccine which is the preferred vaccine. A vaccine injection is also available which does not contain gelatine from pigs (porcine gelatine).

For more information visit www.nhs.uk/child-flu

Helping to protect children, every winter © Crown copyright 2024. Product code: FLU5RY24. UK Health Security Agency gateway number: 2024104 If you want to order more copies of this poster, please visit: healthpublications.gov.uk/Home.html or call 0300 123 1002.

INSIDE Greater Manchester

As a new school year begins, we’d like to warmly welcome all the new families joining reception classes. Primary Times Manchester 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 seven times a year. Before each of the 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,

04 LOCAL NEWS 06 ENJOY AUTUMN 08 WOW 08 COMPETITION 09 BOX OFFICE 10 OUR SCHOOLS 14 FESTIVE SHOWS

The latest news from in and around Manchester

Days out to delight the family this season

What’s on Where – a diary of activities

A chance to win a family ticket to Octagon Theatre

Back to School 2026 PUBLISHED BY

Moonscape Media Ltd 07710 229189 kerry@moonscapemedia.net EDITOR

Louise Fry PRODUCTION

Tristan Kayes

ADVERTISING

Kerry Beardsmore LISTINGS EDITOR

Suzanne Watson

Family shows coming to the stage soon

Updates and Open Days from schools in the area

A preview of what’s to come later in the year

Primary Times is independently published and distributed free through primary schools in Greater Manchester. 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 Greater Manchester 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 Greater Manchester is operated under franchise licence.

SAT 18 JUL –– SUN 01 NOV 2026

Animals in Children’s Books A free family exhibition including Elmer, Dear Zoo, Owl Babies, There’s a Tiger in the Garden and lots more

www.primarytimes.co.uk/manchester

FREE EXHIBITION

BACK TO SCHOOL 2026 3

Local NEWS

Protect your child from flu, and yourself from cramp! Plus, schools and nurseries can plan ahead for Christmas Jumper Day to help raise funds for Save the Children.

Give your child their best defence against flu

All aboard! Thomas the Tank Engine becomes first-ever locomotive to choo-choose to support Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day! Together, Thomas and Save the Children will help deliver festive joy to children in the UK and around the world who need it most. Save the Children’s annual Christmas Jumper Day is taking place on Thursday 10th December and to help encourage more children than ever to sign up and take part, Mattel is launching a nationwide prize draw for nurseries, primary schools and secondary schools. Schools and nurseries that register by Tuesday 1st December will be in with the chance of winning: Nursery – A Day Out With Thomas adventure, where one nursery class of up to 30 children, plus up to four teachers/chaperones can enjoy a ride on a full-sized Thomas engine and child-friendly activities. Subject to availability.

Secondary – One exclusive interactive STEM-focused workshop with a Mattel designer at your school, where students can discover the creative process behind some of their favourite toys and bring ideas to life. It’s simple: 1. Sign up for your FREE fundraising pack at www.ChristmasJumperDay.org 2. Get your jumper out. You don’t have to buy a new one, upcycle an old jumper with tinsel and baubles.

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

Primary – An unforgettable full-day visit for one winning primary school class to Drayton Manor Resort, home of Thomas Land, with access to over 50 rides and attractions throughout the park. Includes admission to Thomas Land, reasonable return group/coach travel, lunch for all attendees and parking where applicable.

3. Donate to Save the Children. By having fun and raising money, you’re supporting children in the UK and around the world.

The game changer…

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.

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.

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.

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.

USE CODE PT50 TO GET 50% OFF!

When you sign up to Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day, you’ll receive a free fundraising pack with lesson plans, festive activities and all the information you need to plan the merriest day ever.

Cramp Killa offers fast, effective cramp relief, delivering a two-stage 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.

Cramp Killa proudly supports Brain Tumour Research, contributing to awareness and support for vital research initiatives. W: www.crampkilla.co.uk

ESTABLISHED PUBLISHING COMPANY FOR SALE Acquire an established publishing company operating five successful Primary Times regional editions.

After almost 25 successful years, Moonscape Media Ltd is being offered for sale as a profitable going concern. The company operates five well-established regional editions of Primary Times, one of the UK’s best-known family and education-focused magazine brands, under a long-established franchise arrangement. The business has built an excellent reputation, loyal advertiser relationships and a proven record of consistent profitability. This represents an outstanding opportunity for an individual, media company or strategic investor to acquire a mature publishing business with established revenues, experienced staff, efficient operating systems and significant opportunities for future growth. Further information, including financial performance and detailed business information, is available to suitably qualified prospective purchasers following the execution of a Confidentiality Agreement. For confidential enquiries, please contact: richard@moonscapemedia.net

4 BACK TO SCHOOL 2026

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Local NEWS

ONE JOURNEY • ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES

WGS.ORG WITHINGTON GIRLS’ SCHOOL www.primarytimes.co.uk/manchester

WHERE GIRLS SHINE BACK TO SCHOOL 2026 5

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 plenty to do in the area, with some great activities and events over the coming months.

Visit AO Arena for your family entertainment this season Looking for unforgettable family days out? AO Arena, in the heart of Manchester city centre, is home to some of the UK’s biggest family entertainment. From the magic of Disney On Ice: Discover the Magic and the action-packed excitement of Gladiators Live to the fast-paced thrills of Manchester Storm ice hockey, there’s something for every age to enjoy. With great transport links, family-friendly facilities and an exciting calendar of events all year round, AO Arena is the perfect place to make lasting memories together. Discover your next family adventure and experience world-class entertainment right on your doorstep. W: www.ao-arena.com

Z-arts – the UK’s only dedicated arts centre for children and families

Say you saw it in Primary Times

This October half term, Z-arts has spooky, silly fun all your little monsters will love. The Enormous Turnip (Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th October) is an energetic theatre adventure as Mr and Mrs Chickweed battle to save their giant veg. Beano’s Dennis the Menace’s Year of Mischief! (Wednesday 28th October) sees Dennis break every rule in the book to get his birthday wish. And Monster Disco (Saturday 31st October) is an interactive puppet party – join in, dance and boogie, or just chill and enjoy the vibes, the Monster Disco is for everyone! Find out more online. W: www.z-arts.org

Your circus is back at Trafford Centre Saturday 10th October – Sunday 1st November Get ready for a Halloween adventure the whole family will love as Gandeys Spooktacular returns! 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 children and grown-ups alike. Whether you’re looking for an unforgettable family day out or a fun-filled half term experience, Gandeys Spooktacular promises excitement, wonder and memories to last long after Halloween. Book early to secure the best seats for this popular annual Halloween spectacular with family fun. W: www.gandeyscircus.com

6 BACK TO SCHOOL 2026

USE CODE PT20 TO GET 20% OFF TICKETS. T&CS APPLY. www.primarytimes.co.uk/manchester

Enjoy AUTUMN

Little imaginations can run wild at Lowry

FREE

Wild Things is 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 by Axel Scheffler, Nick Sharratt, Helen Oxenbury, Rod Campbell and many more. The exhibition also includes lots of fun interactives and games designed especially for under 7s including the Bee Calm Spa, Vera’s Veggie Delights Stall, and The Furry Wardrobe. Running until Sunday 1st November. W: www.thelowry.com

Book now for East Lancashire Railway’s Halloween Ghost Trains Thursday 29th – Saturday 31st October Something spooky is heading to the East Lancashire Railway. Join the members of the Monster Squad on a frightfully fang-tastic adventure along the eerie Irwell Valley! Board your own scream-train and get set for all kinds of scary surprises, music and monsters to meet and greet, including fan favourites like Zombie Bob. This adventure is recommended for ages 10 and up, at the parents’ discretion. Find out more by visiting www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk – if you dare…

www.primarytimes.co.uk/manchester

BACK TO SCHOOL 2026 7

WOW – What’s On Where

WOW

Saturday 3rd & Sunday 4th October Day Out With Thomas

What’s on Where in Greater Manchester

ONGOING Adventures in Wonderland Z-arts www.z-arts.org Fall down the rabbit hole and step into Lewis Carroll’s classic world – an interactive play experience for children up to 8 years, where families can imagine, explore, and make unforgettable memories together.

Mission: Mad Hatter Z-arts www.z-arts.org A family escape room experience – a 75-minute Wonderland adventure for ages 9+. Working in teams of up to six, you’ll use a digital tablet to navigate the twists and turns of Wonderland. It’s a race against time to uncover curious clues, solve mind-mangling puzzles, and rescue the Mad Hatter’s missing guests – just in time for tea!

Running until Sunday 1st November

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 old bookworm who’s always up to meddlesome mischief! Join for an enchanting experience that requires your puzzling skills, logic, persistence and, most of all, teamwork. Age 8+.

Yard Ball National Football Museum www.nationalfootballmuseum.com A unique urban football experience! Yard Ball is transforming the Pitch Gallery into an all-action arena that will put your skills to the ultimate test. Packed with street football vibes and nostalgic fun, Yard Ball invites players of all abilities to take on challenges that will improve players’ balance, hone their accuracy and finesse their footwork. Running until 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 Bluey & Bingo 2026 East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk See Bluey and Bingo at Bury Transport Museum at intervals throughout the day. 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.

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!

Saturday 10th October – Sunday 1st November

Sunday 25th October Relaxed Performance 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.

Thursday 29th & Friday 30th October

Gandeys Circus Spooktacular

The Wizarding Adventure

Trafford Centre 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.

East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk Join the delightfully wacky professors as they reveal the secrets of real magic. Learn powerful incantations and perfect your wand-waving skills, use your imagination and learn how to soar through the skies on a broomstick, discover the proper way to greet mystical creatures and take care of a real dragon egg – who knows what might hatch?

Thursday 29th – Saturday 31st October

Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th October

Halloween Ghost Trains

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.

East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk Join the members of the Monster Squad on a frightfully fang-tastic adventure along the eerie Irwell Valley! Board your own scream-train and get set for all kinds of scary surprises, music and monsters to meet and greet, including fan favourites like Zombie Bob. Recommended for ages 10 and up, at the parents’ discretion. 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!

WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO CINDERELLA: A FAIRYTALE Step into a magical festive adventure with Cinderella: A Fairytale at the Octagon Theatre, Bolton. Running from Friday 20th November until Saturday 9th January, this classic story has been brilliantly re-imagined in a funny, high-energy show filled with music, magic and laugh-out-loud moments for the whole family. To be in with a chance of winning a family ticket to Cinderella: A Fairytale, simply answer this question:

WHAT ITEM DOES CINDERELLA LEAVE BEHIND ON THE PALACE STEPS? A) A golden crown

B) A glass slipper C) A silk glove

Email your answer titled CINDERELLA to be placed into the prize draw. T&Cs apply. One winner to be chosen at random. Winner to receive up to four tickets to a performance of their choice for Cinderella: A Fairytale (excluding performances between Monday 21st to Sunday 27th December). When you enter, please let us know your name, address, email, child’s age and school. Please note: Primary Times will only use your details to contact the winner.

Email your entry to competitions@primarytimesmag.com • T&Cs Apply • Closing date is Sunday 18th October 8 BACK TO SCHOOL 2026

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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. AO Arena

Lowry

www.ao-arena.com

www.thelowry.com

Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th November

GLADIATORS LIVE TOUR 2026 This adrenaline-fuelled twohour arena event sees the legendary Gladiators storm back into the arena to face fearless contenders in a heart-pounding live adaptation of the smashhit television phenomenon. Expect iconic fan-favourite events, breathtaking stunts, epic head-to-head battles and the unforgettable Eliminator finale.

Wednesday 16th – Sunday 20th December

DISNEY ON ICE Celebrate Disney magic at Disney On Ice presents Discover the Magic, a fast-paced, family-friendly production that follows the search for Tinker Bell through stunning worlds. Explore the colourful spirit realm of Coco with Miguel, brave the ocean with Moana, marvel at Belle’s enchanted chandelier, and sing with Elsa. Watch Stitch crash the action with mischievous surprises. Featuring spectacular ice skating, daring aerial stunts, and memorable moments from Aladdin, Toy Story, and The Little Mermaid, this all-out celebration delivers non-stop music, mischief, and memories.

Friday 11th December – Sunday 10th January

Z-arts

Sunday 20th September

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Saturday 26th September

THE SELFISH GIANT

On a bitter Christmas Eve night, a cold-hearted miser is visited by four ghosts. Transported to worlds past, present and future, Ebenezer Scrooge witnesses what a lifetime of fear and selfishness has led to and sees with fresh eyes the lonely life he has built for himself. Can Ebenezer be saved before it’s too late?

The Giant is angry. He returns from Cornwall to find children – children! – playing happily in his beautiful garden! Every day after school, they come and run about, laughing and playing games under the blossom on his peach trees, listening to the delightful songs of the birds! So, he puts up a big wall and an even bigger KEEP OUT notice to put a stop to all that. Then winter seizes the garden in its icy fingers… Through vivid, interactive storytelling, original music, puppetry and humour, Riding Lights Theatre Company brings you this brilliant story of transformation. Perfect for families.

Sunday 11th October

NICE! STORIES AND RHYMES WITH MICHAEL ROSEN Poetry legend Michael Rosen celebrates his 80th birthday with a brand-new live show! Michael looks back at a lifetime in poetry, performing beloved classics including Hot Food, No Breathing and Chocolate Cake, along with never-before-heard poems from his new collection Peas On Your Knees. A show for all ages, from the young to the young at heart.

Say you saw it in Primary Times

www.primarytimes.co.uk/manchester

Octagon Theatre www.octagonbolton.co.uk

Friday 20th November – Saturday 9th January

CINDERELLA A classic story, brilliantly reimagined. Cinderella: A Fairytale brings this well-loved classic tale bang up to date with a funny, high-energy show that will be a real crowd pleaser for the whole family. When Ella’s father remarries, her world turns upside down. She escapes from her horrible new family by spending time in the woods, surrounded by her friends, the birds. But when she bumps into a mysterious bird-loving boy and gets an invitation to the Royal ball, everything changes... A story full of music and magic that will charm everyone at the Octagon.

www.z-arts.org

DANCE IN THE DARK A captivating dance and music show with fun interaction for children aged 3+ and their families. Go along in your favourite PJs for a slumber party in a giant sleepover den and a playful night-time adventure. Cocreated with children, this multisensory inclusive show features contemporary dance, live music, immersive sound, and scents.

Saturday 17th October

THE MAGIC STICK Blending Indian dance, music, storytelling, and stage magic, this is a heart-warming family show celebrating compassion, selflessness, and generosity – and inviting everyone to reflect on one simple thought: how kind have you been today? Recommended age 6-12.

Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th October

THE ENORMOUS TURNIP An energetic theatre adventure! Join Mr and Mrs Chickweed and save the day as they pull The Enormous Turnip out of the ground before it takes over the planet!

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!

BACK TO SCHOOL 2026 9

Our SCHOOLS Here we have the latest updates from some of our local schools, with details of upcoming Open Days too, giving you the opportunity to take a look for yourself.

Chetham’s – inspiring the next generation of musicians and thinkers

MHSG is a School of Firsts. The first Northern academic girls’ school, with alumnae achieving historical firsts, Manchester High School for Girls is a proudly single-sex, 152-year-old, awardwinning school fostering a love for education, lifelong learning, and academic excellence.

Chetham’s School of Music, in the heart of Manchester, is the largest music school in the UK. The campus is a melting pot of different perspectives and ideas – but everyone is bonded by a passion for music. This makes Chetham’s a truly unique and inspirational place to live, learn and make connections. Open Days are the perfect way to discover what makes Chetham’s so special. Book now for Saturday 17th October. W: www.chethamsschoolofmusic.com/apply

The school emphasize holistic development; encouraging mindfulness, fun, and happiness as key to success. Students achieved 86% A*-B at A-level and 78% Grades 9-7 (A*-A) at GCSE – placing MHSG in the Sunday Times’ top five North West Independent Schools 2025. The Good Schools Guide called their Preparatory School “one of the happiest and most effervescent schools we have visited.” Register for open events at www.manchesterhigh.co.uk

Say you saw it in Primary Times

Withington appoints new Head Withington Girls’ School has appointed Deputy Head Academic, Tom Bennett, as its new Head, succeeding Sarah Haslam, who retires in September after 10 years as Head and 30 years of service to the school. Mr Bennett’s appointment follows a rigorous selection process involving governors, staff and pupils. Chair of Governors, Malcolm Pike, said he had demonstrated “a deep understanding of our ethos and a compelling vision for Withington.” With senior leadership experience spanning RGS High Wycombe, Wycombe Abbey – one of the UK’s leading girls’ schools – and Sedbergh, Mr Bennett has a genuine commitment to single-sex education for girls. On his new role, he said it was “a privilege to lead a school I know so well and care deeply about.” Consistently ranked as the top independent school in the North West for public examination results, WGS invites you to its upcoming open events on Thursday 5th November (evening) and Saturday 7th November (morning). For updates on these and other opportunities, including taster mornings, please complete an enquiry form online. W: www.wgs.org

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 www.bridgewater-school.co.uk/open-day-2026 and see how far your child could go. 10 BACK TO SCHOOL 2026

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Our SCHOOLS

HULME GRAMMAR SCHOOL Senior School Open Evening

Whole School Open Day Saturday 7th November, 10am-2pm

Bridgewater School, Drywood Hall, Worsley Rd, Worsley, M28 2WQ

2ND OCTOBER 2026 4:00PM - 7:00PM

Call 0161 794 1463 or visit bridgewater-school.co.uk/openday-2026 to reserve your place.

This is a School of Firsts

Book open events at

manchesterhigh.co.uk Empowering Girls since 1874 www.primarytimes.co.uk/manchester

BACK TO SCHOOL 2026 11

Our SCHOOLS

Hulme Grammar School: Shaping Tomorrow’s Leaders You aren’t just choosing a school. You’re choosing their future. At Hulme Grammar School, a seamless educational journey means your child is fully supported from their first steps to becoming future leaders. They don’t just teach, they ignite potential. See it in action at the Senior Open Evening on Friday 2nd October. Discover how the school’s excellent academic results pave the way for big ambitions, while their vibrant co-curricular program builds the confidence, resilience, and character needed for life. Reserve your Open Evening place by contacting admissions@hulmegrammar.org

Award-winning school with care at its heart Burnage Academy for Boys combines exceptional academic outcomes with outstanding pastoral care and opportunities beyond the classroom. It was named the region’s Most Inspirational Secondary School at the 2025 Educate Awards, building on the national Secondary School of the Year prize at the 2024 Tes Awards. Rated Outstanding by Ofsted, the school combines exceptional academic outcomes with unrivalled pastoral care. Beyond the classroom, pupils benefit from opportunities including cricket coaching through Lancashire Cricket Foundation and free instrumental tuition through the MiSST programme. Visit and see for yourself at the Open Evening on Thursday 8th October. W: www.burnage.manchester.sch.uk

Pupils at The Manchester Grammar School take to the stage Music continues to thrive across the Junior School at The Manchester Grammar School, with an expanding programme of opportunities and performances enriching the musical experience of pupils. The 2025-26 academic year saw their largest provision to date, with ten co-curricular ensembles available and music-making taking place every morning and lunchtime throughout the week. Each year, every pupil in year 3 to 6 takes part in a production in the state-of-the-art Cryne Theatre. During the 2025-26 academic year, year 3 and 4 pupils performed Finding Nemo, year 5 pupils performed Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and year 6 pupils concluded the year with We Will Rock You. MGS look forward to the next chapter of musical opportunities in 2026-27! You can visit the school for their Open Evening on Thursday 24th September, 4.30-7pm to find out more. W: www.mgs.org

Chetham’s Open Day Saturday 17 October 2026 You’re invited to meet our students and staff, tour our facilities, and join in with rehearsals at the UK’s largest music school.

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g in R en BE Ev n TO pe O C

RESILIENCE | INDEPENDENCE | CARE

Boys do better at Burnage Inspiring sporting excellence together 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

Creating outstanding cricketing opportunities through our partnership with Lancashire Cricket Foundation.

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. Free classical instrument & tuition for all KS3 students Developing the next generation of musicians through fully funded instrumental tuition with MiSST.

Get in touch to arrange a personal tour 0161 432 1527 | burnage.manchester.sch.uk

Festive SHOWS Here we take a sneak peek at some of the fabulous Christmas shows that are set to wow audiences later this year! Book tickets in advance for pick of the best seats.

Cinderella: A Fairytale at the Octagon Theatre, Bolton

The Jolly Christmas Postman delivers at Lowry

FRIDAY 20TH NOVEMBER – SATURDAY 9TH JANUARY

FRIDAY 4TH DECEMBER – SUNDAY 3RD JANUARY

The summer holidays may have come to an end, but the magic doesn’t have to! Make this Christmas one to remember with Cinderella: A Fairytale.

Join the Jolly Postman on a frosty, fairytale adventure in this stage adaptation from Lowry and Royal & Derngate. Based on the awardwinning children’s book by muchloved duo Janet and Allan Ahlberg, this family show sees the Jolly Postman cycling through the snow to deliver parcels and letters to familiar friends as they prepare for Christmas celebrations.

When Ella’s father remarries, her world turns upside down. She escapes from her horrible new family by spending time in the woods, surrounded by her friends, the birds. But when she bumps into a mysterious bird-loving boy and gets an invitation to the Royal ball, everything changes… Whether it’s your family’s first visit to an Octagon festive show or a much-loved annual tradition, the Octagon is ready to welcome you to this funny, high-energy retelling of the classic story that’s packed with music, magic and laughter for the whole family. Tickets from £17. W: www.octagonbolton.co.uk/whats-on

There are visits to Red Riding Hood, Humpty Dumpty, the Gingerbread Man, and not forgetting the big, bad wolf! As the snow continues to fall, who will help the Jolly Postman get home in time for Christmas? Live music, original songs and a sprinkling of theatre magic bring this favourite festive classic to life for all ages to enjoy. W: www.thelowry.com

A Christmas Carol will premiere at Lowry this Christmas FRIDAY 11TH DECEMBER – SUNDAY 10TH JANUARY The Old Vic is delighted to announce that Matthew Warchus’ much-loved, Tony Award-winning A Christmas Carol, adapted for the stage by Jack Thorne (His Dark Materials, Harry Potter and The Cursed Child), will play at Lowry, Salford from Friday 11th December until Sunday 10th January. On a bitter Christmas Eve night, a cold-hearted miser is visited by four ghosts. Transported to worlds past, present and future, Ebenezer Scrooge witnesses what a lifetime of fear and selfishness has led to and sees with fresh eyes the lonely life he has built for himself. Can Ebenezer be saved before it’s too late? A Christmas Carol fills the auditorium to the brim with mince pies, music and merriment in this unique big-hearted production full of music and festive cheer. W: www.thelowry.com

BOO NOWK

14 BACK TO SCHOOL 2026

FRI 20 NOV 2026 – SAT 9 JAN 2027 octagonbolton.co.uk 01204 520661 www.primarytimes.co.uk/manchester

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AT M A N C H E S T E R ’ S FAVO U R I T E V E N U E

Whole School Thursday 24 September 2026, 4.30–7pm

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