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Waterside offers a range of theatre performances, exhibitions and creative experiences designed to engage young people and enrich learning beyond the classroom.

Visiting Waterside with your school

Located in the heart of Sale, Waterside is easy to reach on foot, by coach or via the Metrolink or bus, making it a convenient destination for schools across Greater Manchester and beyond.

Our experienced team will support you every step of the way, helping to make your visit as smooth and stress-free as possible. Whether you're planning a trip for a small class or a whole year group, we're here to help.

Why Visit Waterside?

A visit to Waterside offers students the opportunity to:

  • Experience live theatre and visual arts in a professional cultural venue
  • Develop creativity, imagination and confidence
  • Discover new ideas, perspectives and stories
  • Support personal development and wellbeing
  • Enhance cultural awareness and enrichment
  • Engage with learning in a memorable, real-world setting

Our programme can complement classroom learning and support wider PSHE and personal development outcomes, creating valuable experiences that stay with young people long after their visit.

We Make School Visits Easy

We know that organising a school trip takes time, which is why we do everything we can to make the process straightforward.

Our team can:

  • Meet your group on arrival
  • Support coach drop-off and entry into the building
  • Provide risk assessments and supporting documentation
  • Help coordinate your visit from start to finish
  • Welcome and look after your group while you're here

From the moment you arrive, we'll help ensure your visit runs smoothly, allowing teachers to focus on enjoying the experience alongside their pupils.

Theatre Visits

From family-friendly productions and curriculum-linked performances to exciting contemporary theatre, Waterside welcomes hundreds of young people through its doors each year.

To make group bookings more accessible, we offer:

One free teacher place for every nine students booked.

All school bookings are managed through our Box Office team, who can help you find the right performance and answer any questions about your visit. Find out what theatre shows you can bring your school to:

Exhibition Visits

Our galleries host a changing programme of exhibitions throughout the year, giving students the chance to explore animation, contemporary art, creative projects and new ways of thinking.

Exhibition visits can spark discussion, inspire creative responses and provide exciting opportunities for cross-curricular learning. Find out about current exhibitions

Planning Your Visit

All school visits should be booked in advance through our Box Office team.

Whether you're interested in a theatre performance, an exhibition visit or would like advice on the best options for your students, we'd be delighted to help.

Get in touch with our Box Office team to start planning your visit to Waterside.