An incredible journey through time and space was taken by pupils from Saint Paul’s Catholic High School in Wythenshawe when they watched a spectacular planetarium show at Trinity Church of England High School in Manchester.

The event, funded by The Ogden Trust which promotes the studying of Physics, introduced the wonders of the universe to the Year 8 pupils with an amazing and engaging display of the Solar System and the Universe. They were presented with a guide to the movement of the planets, the phases of the Moon and even the mythology of some famous constellations.

Pupils were encouraged to investigate the wonders of the Universe including how the Earth formed and developed. They explored our place in the Universe and “visited” the inner and outer planets of the solar system. They also took a journey into the night sky and its wonders as seen from Earth.

 Mr Stephen McMahon, Head of Science at Saint Paul’s, said: “The pupils saw a very exciting presentation on The Solar System, stars in the night sky and the origin of the Universe and were able to immerse themselves in the wonders of space at this unique event. The pupils listened and watched intently as the presenters brought science to life for them.  They were able to examine motions of the Sun and stars across the sky and their sense of awe at the beauty and mysteries of the Universe was palpable.”

Mr McMahon added: “The pupils gave excellent answers to the questions that were posed by the presenter and asked many thought provoking questions about the wonders of space.”

“The trip to the planetarium provided a unique opportunity for pupils to engage with the wonders of the universe and explore and experience the amazing night sky,” commented Mrs Fiona Minshall, Head Teacher at Saint Paul’s. “Astronomy is part of the National Curriculum and this visit provided a very valuable experience for our pupils and enhances the learning curriculum.  Such visits are greatly appreciated by both the staff and the pupils.”

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Notes for Editors

1. Saint Paul’s received congratulations from the Rt Hon David Laws MP Minister of State for Schools when they were recognised as one of the 100 most improved schools in the country.

1. On 1st April, 2013 Saint Paul’s Catholic High School joined with St Anthony’s Catholic Primary School and St John Fisher and Thomas More Catholic Primary School to form the Wythenshawe Catholic Academy Trust (MAT – Multi Trust Academy). St Elizabeth's Catholic Primary School later joined the Trust.

3. Saint Paul’s was the first school in Manchester to be awarded Engineering College status.

4. The work of Saint Paul’s drama teacher, Ms Ellie Brookes, was recognised with her winning the much coveted North West Teacher of the Year Award. Also Head of Humanities at Saint Paul’s, Ms Ursula Gallagher, gained third place in the Outstanding New Teacher of the Year category of the Northern Area Teacher of the Year.

5. Lively approaches to teaching maintain vigour and ensure that firm foundations are established for higher level work. The school has a modern approach to learning supported by a programme of constant refurbishment and development of its facilities and resources.

6. The aims of the school are to:
   • Teach and foster a Christian perspective in all that it does
   • Provide teaching of the highest calibre
   • Promote excellence in all areas
   • Develop the ability, talents and character of each pupil, enabling them to make their own unique contribution to school life
   • Encourage boys to play their part in helping the community run smoothly and effectively, by taking on responsibility and leadership

More information about Saint Paul’s Catholic High School can be found at www.st-paulshigh.net or contact Jane McAuliffe-Hall (Marketing and Publicity Manager) at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  or on 0161 499 0000.