Request for Donations – Early Stage Learning Toys and iPads for The Willows
Published 12/01/26
We are currently looking to refresh and expand the range of early stage learning resources available in our resource base to support some of our Key Stage 1 pupils who are working at a much earlier developmental stage (approximately 1–3 years).
If you have any pre-loved resources at home that your child has outgrown and you would be happy to donate, we would be extremely grateful.
Early Stage Learning Toys we are particularly looking for:
- Chunky, durable early learning toys
- VTech-style learning toys eg noisy ones that have cause and effect
- Plastic role-play toys (e.g. small world / Happyland-type toys)
- Simple puzzles
- Toys that support early learning concepts such as numbers, shapes, colours, sorting, turn-taking, and early play skills
To ensure the toys are suitable for our pupils, we are not currently looking for:
- Play tables or standing activity centres (our pupils are physically too big for these)
- Duplo (we already have a large supply)
- Metal toy cars
- Brio
- Musical instruments
- Soft teddies
iPad Donations
We are also looking for older iPads that families may no longer be using and might consider donating. iPads that can run iOS 15 are particularly helpful, as they allow us to run AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) apps. These apps support our non-speaking pupils to communicate using visual grids and symbols on the iPad. Any donated devices would be used solely for communication and learning purposes within the resource base. Any items donated that are not quite suitable for our setting will be passed on to a local charity shop, so nothing will go to waste.
Thank you so much for your continued support. Your generosity makes a meaningful difference to the learning and communication opportunities we can offer our children.


