SEA LIFE Manchester

What makes us a great choice for education

We offer pre and post visit lesson plans to use in the classroom to compliment your visit. We also have a National SEA LIFE Learning Hub subscription service with a wealth of lesson plans and information for teachers.

As well as lessons available about sea creatures and habitats, we offer workshops tacking conservation issues such as plastic pollution, teaching children to be the sea defenders of the future.

Accreditation and Awards

SEA LIFE Manchester holds an LOtC Quality Badge (expires December 2023) 

What is typically included on our school trips

Self-Guided Tours and Workshops catering for early years, KS1 and KS2 are available. We combine active, hands-on learning with fascinating educational talks and an opportunity to have an up-close and personal view into our amazing aquatic world for your ultimate school trip!

Group Sizes Catered For

Classroom fits 30 (larger bookings can book multiple workshop times and split into groups allowing some to explore the Centre whilst others learn).

Materials, Resources & Information Provided

Lesson plans for in the classroom (KS2) are available to download from the website. The Education team for SEA LIFE UK worked closely with teachers to develop both these free plans, and the content available on the subscription Hub.

Photography, Filming & Audio Restrictions

Photography and filming are allowed throughout the Centre with no restrictions imposed by SEA LIFE on the sharing of content.

However, using a flash photography near the tanks is prohibited, many of our creatures do not like flashes of light, this can cause them stress.

Risk Assessment Details

A free risk assessment form is available to download via our website.

Education Officer Information

The best way to book your visit is to fill a reservation request form in on our website.

You can contact the SEA LIFE UK school bookings team on 01616292042 or on email: guestsupport.slmanchester@merlinentertainments.biz

Pricing Information

A visit between September and February costs £6 per person. Between March and August is £7.95 per person.
Workshops can be added to the visit for an additional £2.00 per child.

Schools get one free teacher for every 3 children under 5 years, and one free for every 10 children of primary and secondary age.

Clothing Requirements

No, sensible shoes are advised, this includes standard school shoes.

First Aid Information

SEA LIFE Manchester has qualified first aiders on site at all times.

Available Facilities

There is no café or canteen in the attraction. The school workshop room can be used as a lunchroom, this must be requested at the time of booking and is subject to availability.

There are toilets, including an accessible toilet located halfway around the attraction next to the soft play area.

A merchandise shop is located at the end of the attraction that must be passed though to exit. The shop sells items such as soft toys, magnets, keyrings etc and is cashless payments only.

Accessibility & Disabled Facilities

SEA LIFE Manchester has one accessible toilet. The attraction is located on one level throughout and does not need stairs to access.

Opening Hours & Information

Opening hours vary, please check our website for up to date information. On weekdays in term-time school bookings can be generally be made for 9.30 to 4pm.

Testimonials

Trip advisor review of a School trip in February 2020:

“We took a class of Planet Protectors from our school and were treated to a wonderful workshop by Ben on the dangers of plastic in our oceans. He was so informative and enthusiastic that the children were fully engaged throughout and made posters to bring back to school.
The rest of the day was engrossing for the children who were able to learn about so many things to do with what lives in our waters..
Overall a fantastic day out that kept our children engaged throughout”.

Other Information

SEA LIFE Manchester is located at Trafford Palazzo, across from the Trafford Centre. There is a free carpark situated right outside the attraction and is suitable for coaches. Sat nav: M17 8AS

Location Information

SEA LIFE Manchester
Trafford Palazzo (previously known as Barton Square at The Trafford Centre)
Stretford
Manchester
M17 8AS