Grantee portal 
Community Foundation North East awarded Wingrove Primary School a £3,000 grant from the Fogo Fund in November 2024 to launch a Parent & Toddler group in the west end of Newcastle. The project reflects the school’s commitment to early years development and family wellbeing.
Elaine Holdsworth, Senior Philanthropy Advisor at Community Foundation North East, said:
“This project demonstrates how small grants can make a significant difference. By creating a space where families feel welcome and supported, Wingrove Primary is helping families thrive and building stronger community connections.”
The funding has enabled weekly sessions in the school hall and community space, offering a mix of free play, structured activities, story time, songs, and sensory exploration. Activities such as threading beads or building towers helped toddlers develop fine motor skills, while story time and songs encouraged language development.
Laura Radu, who coordinates and leads the sessions, added:
“The group has been transformative for families. Parents feel more confident supporting their child’s development at home, and we’ve seen children grow in independence and social skills. Some toddlers who attended have now joined our nursery, and teachers report they’ve settled in brilliantly.”
The sessions have helped Wingrove Primary build trust with parents and strengthen relationships with local families, including those who were previously isolated or new to the area. Parents have begun forming an organic support network, sharing tips and advice informally during sessions and demand is growing, with many parents asking for more opportunities to attend.
The success of the Parent & Toddler group demonstrates the lasting impact of targeted funding on early years development and family wellbeing in Newcastle’s west end.
Community Foundation North East supports projects across Tyne & Wear, Northumberland, and the wider region. Find out more about our grants here.