Community development programs in Manchester

“My 6-year-old daughter took part in a 4-day holiday club at Little Voices this summer. Despite it being her first time there and not knowing any of the other children beforehand, she came running out on the first day with a big smile, excitedly sharing stories about her "new friends!" At the end of the week, parents were invited to watch the children's performance, and it was truly remarkable! Every child had a chance to shine in their own unique way, which was delightful to watch. Little Voices is such a nurturing environment and there was absolutely no pressure on the children over the 4 days, as some might worry about; the focus was on having fun—and my daughter certainly did that! We will be back, for sure. Thank you, Laura...you are amazing!”

“Corey has been a member of Stage and Screen since March when he joined part way through the rehearsals for The Sound of Music having been cast as the role of Max. We honestly can not speak highly enough of Sophie and Matt and all the staff at Stage and screen. They have nurtured and encouraged Corey to be the best he can be on stage whilst making every weekly session enjoyable. The end of year performance of The Sound of Music was just amazing, super professional with great casting and so much talent! I would also like to add that Corey has made a great group of new friends who have the same common interest and champion/encourage eachother along the way. Corey absolutely loves going to rehearsals and can not wait to be part of the next show Legally Blonde whilst also being part of the stage and screen community. I can not thank you enough for giving Corey a great platform to continue his love of performing in musical theatre.”

“My son’s been attending here now since just after the Easter half term this year. My sons developed in so many ways , he can be quite stubborn at the best of times , standards here are super high and work with every single child needs no matter how high or how low. Staff are incredibly on form with teaching and how they run things and have a very highly standard of professionalism which you can see. They are open and honest with each parent . Reporting back each day if anything needs to be addressed or reported. There on form with everything. Highly recommended nursery for your child to go too especially if your wanting a nursery for your child with such high standards of learning and still at the same time as your child being able to still be a child at the same time”

“My son started at the nursery a few weeks ago and he is really enjoying his days at the nursery. I have seen a huge change in him in terms of settling in at the nursery. He is so happy, comfortable and confident. The staff as a whole are so lovely and amazing with the children. So far I am happy with my choice of nursery for my son and wish I came across this nursery sooner.”

“My son started here at 9 months old and settled so well into the baby room. Becky was so caring and tried to adapt everything to his usual routine and had a great understanding of his likes and dislikes. The key worker system worked brilliant. Michelle knows every child throughout the nursery and is always there for support.”

“I just wanted to say how helpful Lisa Hartley at Holcombe Financial Services has been with regards to my recent House move / mortgage etc. This has been an extremely difficult time for me personally and Lisa helped me at every step of the way. I cannot praise her enough for the help that she has given me in order to get my mortgage completed smoothly and with the minimum of fuss. I would highly recommend her to anyone looking to take out or change their mortgage etc.”

“I was having some trouble with 2 piercings i had done less local to me, which had got infected and the ball had come off one of them. I came to inkspire in a panic looking for advice, and the piercer professionally cleaned all of my piercings on that ear and put the ball back on for me - free of charge. I can’t recommend inkspire enough for their professionalism and kindness.”

“An interesting presentation at Hallé St Peter's,held during Japan week in Manchester. We learned about the Hallé connection with Japan with musicians & conductors. After which there was a Samurai display in the grounds infront of the Makers Market. An excellent day.”

“As a healthcare professional who visits the nursery regularly, I just want to mention how pleased I have been on my visits. Lovely staff with a genuine enjoyment of working with young children. Staff are well trained on how to support children. I have seen good examples of staff implementing strategies to help support development. The nursery has a good learning environment and the staff always have creative activities set up. It is amazing to see the care, kindness and compassion they demonstrate every single day. Friendly atmosphere that is welcoming, approachable and a pleasant place to visit.”

“We have had a wonderful experience here. My daughter loves it! Settled so well in the baby room when she started, and now on to visits in pre school ready for that transition! Highly recommend!”

“I too, am a 'mature student' and have thoroughly enjoyed my piano lessons over the years. I've been attending Dawson's Music School since 2012 and in that time, not only have I reached Grade 6 but have met some lovely people of all ages and abilities. I totally agree with previous comments and find the small group classes just perfect for me. I would heartily recommend giving Dawson's a call, no matter what age or experience you may or may not have.”

“I’ve been learning guitar for two months at the age of sixties and with no prior experience, and I’m really enjoying it! The Maunder’s School of Popular Music provides a welcoming and supportive environment. My teacher- Neil, is talented, patient, and great at simplifying strumming patterns and chords. Highly recommended for learners of any age!”

“Our little girl attends 2 days a week and absolutely loves it! We’ve found that the staff have been professional and caring at the same time, making the transition to our daughter attending nursery a smooth one. They cater to her individual likes and needs and we know she is in good hands with people who genuinely know and care about her. The initial consultation with Natalie was a real pleasure as she took time to explain things clearly without being pushy at all, something that we found did happen when we viewed other nurseries. We would recommend this nursery to anyone, but especially those who are nervous about putting a child into nursery for the first time.”

“I have been taking my 26 months old to the toddler session run by Ellen for past 8 months , she loves it and looks forward to it every single week. She has learned so much over these past months. She had her 2 year development check and the health visitor was pleasantly surprised that she could jump with both her feet above the ground all by herself at this young age. All thanks to Ellen’s effort, she puts so much thought into each session , it has really paid off.”

“The most nurturing dance school with exceptional training, exceptionally caring teachers and a standard of dance education that is second to non. So very thankful for all CPA do for my daughter and seeing how much she has flourished under their care, training and guidance during the past 3 years has been a joy to see. We travel quite a distance to attend CPA, but is worth every mile and cannot recommend enough. My daughter is now going onto attend the Classical Pathway Btec course at CPA and we are over the moon that this is an option for dancers leaving school wishing to consider a career within this industry. Central performing arts truly is a magical place where a child’s love of dance is inspired by teachers who really do have their best interests at heart, in addition to being industry professionals who have themselves worked or are still working/performing. Truly inspirational dance school and dance community.”

“Nice little theatre. Some really talented kids. Everyone there is really friendly, plenty of refreshments. Good to support this type of local venue.”

“Both of our children have been to Honeybear nursery from 9 months till starting school (or soon is currently in the preschool room) and we couldn't be happier with the care there. The staff are absolutely fantastic, the kids play outdoors lots and form lovely friendships too. I've recommended it to many people!”

“you’ll be hard pressed to find a more accommodating pub landlord in the city. the ambience is terrific as well”

“Went to watch Cinderella over the Christmas period. The cast were brilliant and the script very well written. As others have mentioned, the ugly sisters were the stars of the show with lots of interaction with the audience. Overall, very good value for money on the initial purchasing of tickets and what the play delivered. I wasn't sure on the parking arrangements and it appears limited where you can park but there were some spaces behind and around the row of shops. We caught the bus to the local precinct and walked the 10 minutes so that is a viable option. The venue itself has food and drink on sale that is very reasonably priced and you can pay both with cash and card. It is a small venue that until recently I did not know even existed. It's intimate and seating, while seen better days, was adequate and even after the near 3 hours being there, was not feeling uncomfortable. Overall, an enjoyable way to spend an afternoon with family”

“A lovely place to bring little one”

“Good with children who have that bit extra needs”

“Nice place very efficient staff”

“We saw Neil Simon’s play “The Odd Couple” last night at Wigan Little Theatre. It was an excellent production, really funny, well acted, costumes and sets were superb. Theatre itself was a lovely old place, comfy and clean, great bar area and place for teas coffees etc in the interval. This is a gem of a place, run and maintained entirely by volunteers. A local treasure belonging to Wigan ❤️. Can’t wait for our next visit.”

“Our daughter started at Fisherfield Nursery last September after receiving many recommendations from other parents. She has done a full year there now and we couldn't recommend it enough. She settled in wonderfully, and we feel so reassured by the care and attention she receives. The staff are approachable and accommodating, always ready to address any questions we have. It's been lovely to receive daily updates, including photos of her happily participating in various activities. We have also had the opportunity to spend time with her in nursey during special events that they have held. She is thriving, and it’s clear that the nursery provides a nurturing and engaging environment for her to do so.”

“Little ways is a wonderful nursery, and a seminal influence on my daughter. She has loved attending so much, has developed loads and describes the staff as her friends. I am always in awe of the range if activities they do, eg washing pumpkins, trips to Manchester museum and sports days!”

“My son Oliver has been attending Aura music Academy for several years now learning to play drum (acoustic). He attended a couple of different taster sessions so he could decide where he wanted to learn and chose Aura. He has had a few different tutors along the way but has connected well with them which is important for him to engage fully. Regular updates on the school and lesson notes shared so we can see how he continues to progress.”

“Barry, with his very strong base of knowledge, talked widely and enthusiastically about Arts & Crafts in the North West. There are so many beautiful artefacts right on our doorstep waiting to be discovered, and the network of artists and craftsmen was fascinating. Perhaps the 'best bit' has to be the admission and recognition of talented women from the start, unlike the Art Workers' Guild in London, with which I am familiar.”

“Really friendly gym, loads of great coaches and even better having a female black belt. Family-friendly atmosphere, would definitely recommend as myself and my son love it.”

“My son enjoys attending the drama lessons. It has boosted his self confidence and the staff are courteous, professional and caring.”

“Thankyou Ed! Fixed a bag for me the same day, attention to detail is exceptional, great price too! Lovely guy - would 100% recommend.”