Nature Nook Addition To Forest School

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The latest addition to the Outdoor Forest Centre at West Mon School in Pontypool is the Forest Cabin or ‘Nature Nook’ as the children have named it. It was the brainchild of Wellbeing Support Officer Michael Allen & will provide an all year teaching facility for children with social & behavioural issues. It will be used by over 100 children at the school as well as the wider catchment area to study the local flora/fauna & conservation & is expected to boost self esteem, confidence, social skills & mental health.

The project was opened by Pontypool Front Row legend Graham Price MBE of Wales & British Lions fame.Graham was a pupil of the School in the 70s & his granddaughter now attends the school.

West Monmouth School has a strong commitment to providing high-quality teaching and learning experiences for its pupils. The school strives to ensure that lessons are both engaging and challenging, supported by a dedicated team of teachers and support staff who continually develop their professional practice to deliver innovative and effective education. Through this commitment, the school aims to create an environment where every pupil can thrive and achieve their full potential.

This new-build Specialist Equipment & Facilities project provides a purpose-designed environment to support children and young people in their educational journey. Designed to enhance learning opportunities and improve access to specialist resources, the facility will help pupils engage more fully with their education while supporting their individual needs and development.

Funded by a generous Wooden Spoon Charity grant, this Specialist Equipment & Facilities project aligns with Wooden Spoon’s commitment to creating inclusive, supportive environments that foster well-being, confidence, and growth.

About Wooden Spoon

Wooden Spoon Charity is a charitable organisation dedicated to transforming lives through the power of the rugby community. Committed to supporting children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage across the UK and Ireland, the charity has funded numerous projects that create opportunities for these individuals.

With a strong history of impactful, community-driven initiatives, Wooden Spoon strives to improve lives through physical, educational, and social projects.

Through collaborations like this, Wooden Spoon continues its mission to bring about positive, lasting change in communities.

Get Involved

Support projects like this across the UK and Ireland by donating to Wooden Spoon Donate or learn more here.

Tudor Grange School in Worcestershire has been awarded a grant of £12,000 from Wooden Spoon, funding a Specialist Equipment & Facilities project focused on new buildings and extensions. This initiative is set to make a meaningful impact on the local community by giving children and young people the chance to learn, grow and reach their full potential.

At Tudor Grange Academy, the Tudor Habits are at the heart of everything it does. The Academy believes that developing the whole student is essential and that flourishing in life requires much more than academic achievement alone. With high expectations for every student, the school strives to help young people excel across all aspects of academy life.

This new specialist facility provides a dedicated learning environment designed to support students’ educational development and wider personal growth. Funded by a generous Wooden Spoon Charity grant, the buildings and extensions will enhance the Academy’s ability to provide inclusive, high-quality spaces where children can thrive, learn and build confidence for the future.

The project officially opened on 14 May 2026 and represents an important investment in the future of young people across the Worcestershire community. By improving facilities and creating additional opportunities for learning, the project will help ensure that students have access to the resources and environment they need to succeed.

About Wooden Spoon

Wooden Spoon is a charitable organisation dedicated to transforming lives through the power of the rugby community. Committed to supporting children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage across the UK and Ireland, the charity has funded numerous projects that create opportunities for these individuals.

With a strong history of impactful, community-driven initiatives, Wooden Spoon strives to improve lives through physical, educational and social projects.

Through collaborations like this, Wooden Spoon continues its mission to bring about positive, lasting change in communities.

Get Involved

Support specialist facilities projects like this across the UK and Ireland by donating to Wooden Spoon at https://woodenspoon.givingpage.org/wooden-spoon-donate or learn more about how your support changes young lives at https://woodenspoon.org.uk/where-your-money-goes/.

Wallingford School in Oxfordshire, a Sensory Space project focusing on the creation of a Neutral Calming Space, has been awarded a grant of over £9,800 from Wooden Spoon Charity. This initiative, aimed at supporting students with sensory regulation needs and providing a safe environment for emotional wellbeing, is set to make a meaningful impact on the school community by giving children a chance to learn.

Wallingford School is a fully inclusive mainstream comprehensive school that places Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) at the heart of its provision. Through needs-led support, targeted interventions and designated safe spaces, the school works to ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed. Every teacher receives SEND training and adapts their teaching to remove barriers to learning, helping pupils to thrive both academically and personally.

Officially opened on 1 June 2026 by England Red Roses players Maud Muir and Mia Venner, the new sensory space represents a significant step forward in the school’s commitment to supporting student wellbeing.

This new sensory space provides a calm, welcoming and therapeutic environment designed to support students who experience stress, anxiety or challenges with emotional regulation. The neutral calming space offers pupils a dedicated area where they can regulate their emotions, reduce sensory overload and develop strategies to manage their wellbeing. The room will also provide opportunities for social interaction, helping students build confidence and strengthen relationships with their peers.

Teachers at the school have described the new facility as “life-changing” for the students who use it. By providing a dedicated space where young people can feel safe, supported and understood, the project is helping to remove barriers to learning and enabling students to engage more fully in school life.

For many young people, particularly those with additional needs, having access to a space where they can pause, reset and regain focus can make a profound difference. The sensory room will not only support emotional wellbeing but will also help improve concentration, attendance and participation in lessons, giving students the confidence to reach their full potential.

Funded by a generous Wooden Spoon Charity grant, this sensory space aligns with Wooden Spoon’s commitment to creating inclusive and supportive environments that foster wellbeing, confidence and personal growth. It is a powerful example of how the right facilities can transform a young person’s educational experience and give them the opportunity to flourish.

With a strong history of impactful, community-driven initiatives, Wooden Spoon strives to improve lives through physical, educational and social projects.

Through collaborations like this, Wooden Spoon continues its mission to bring about positive, lasting change in communities.

Get Involved

Support sensory space projects like this across the UK and Ireland by donating to Wooden Spoon.

Families flocked to a rugby fundraiser which saw more than 1,600 support a local charity.

The home of Darlington RFC and Darlington Football Club, Blackwell Meadows played host to the TeamLuke Family Fun Day.

“Luke would have thrived in this environment,” said Mark Bell, chairman of the TeamLuke Foundation. “He would have enjoyed all the different activities we had on the day. Luke loved being around people and having fun. The family fun day captured that.”
The event was held in the memory of Luke Bell who sadly lost his life to neuroblastoma, a rare form of children’s cancer.

Families got to experience a range of giant inflatables including an assault course, bouncy castles, giant darts, axe throwing, a ‘death’ slide and drop, gladiator dual and destructor.

Alongside this, they could turn their hand to mini golf and sample the range of food vendors on site, whilst enjoying live entertainment from the Party Boppers, The Decades, Michael Hirst Music and the Polaroids.

“He would have really enjoyed watching the rugby matches,” said Mark. “The players ran out onto the pitch to some of his favourite songs. Both his sister and I represented his team and he would have taken great pleasure in that. It was a very emotional day seeing everyone get behind the charity.

“Collaborating with the Wooden Spoon Society on the day was incredible, they are a brilliant charity and they immerse themselves in what these events are all about. Many players have commented about the day capturing the spirit of rugby.”
The Wooden Spoon Society took to the field in its eye-catching red, green, blue and white colours for the first time as part of the event.

“This event was a fantastic collaboration between two charities to support children and young people,” said Matt Mitchell, rugby and communities manager with Wooden Spoon. “The rugby matches were played in great spirit and the whole day created a terrific family atmosphere for everyone involved.

“Events like this showcase the power of rugby to bring people together while raising vital funds and awareness for important causes.”

The charity rugby matches offered a new experience bringing together teams from TeamLuke, Wooden Spoon Society and Darlington RFC, for men’s, women’s and veterans’ rugby all while being accompanied by a pitch side DJ.

Darlington Building Society marked the occasion by donating a cheque for £930. In the run up to the event, it held a treadmill fundraiser covering 114 miles with volunteers teaming up to take on the distance in their Darlington branch.

Mark said: “The volunteers on the day went above and beyond. They made people feel welcome and worked really hard, which is a massive support to the foundation.

“Our sponsors have been a huge support. This year the event was bigger and better with the addition of live music. Thank you to our sponsors Hubspoke Media, G & A Security, Darlington Building Society, Darlington Roofing Contractors, Resilient Business Systems Limited and TG Med.

The TeamLuke Family Fun Day, held at Blackwell Meadows, is an annual community event organised by the TeamLuke Foundation in partnership with Wooden Spoon. Created in memory of Luke Bell, who sadly lost his battle with High Risk Neuroblastoma in 2018 aged just eight, the event brings together families, local businesses, charities and rugby supporters for a day of entertainment and fundraising. Featuring live music, charity rugby matches, giant inflatables, food and drink vendors, children’s activities and evening entertainment, the Family Fun Day raises vital funds to support children’s cancer initiatives and community projects while celebrating Luke’s legacy.

Wooden Spoon was delighted to be part of all three fixtures in this year’s Inter Service Championships, meeting rugby supporters from across the Armed Forces community and raising awareness of the work we do supporting children and young people across the UK and Ireland with disabilities or facing disadvantage.

The tournament kicked off at Northampton Saints’ Cinch Stadium, where the sun was shining as a dedicated team of Wooden Spoon volunteers welcomed a crowd of more than 4,000 supporters for the opening fixtures between the Royal Navy and the RAF. Throughout the day, volunteers chatted with fans, shook buckets, and shared information about the charity’s work, while everyone’s favourite mascot, Spooney, proved hugely popular with young rugby fans. He even took part in the mascot race on the main pitch!

Both the women’s and men’s fixtures delivered exciting, competitive rugby and created a fantastic atmosphere around the ground. We’d like to thank everyone who stopped by our stand, spoke to the team, and entered our FREE prize draw to win two tickets to the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Final.

The action then moved to Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, for the iconic Army v Navy matches, where Wooden Spoon was once again proud to be part of another incredible occasion. The atmosphere was electric, and it was wonderful to see so many supporters engaging with our volunteers and learning more about how rugby can change children’s lives for the better.

The final fixtures took place at Kingsholm Stadium, Gloucester, where the Army secured victories in both matches against the RAF following a day of competitive but enjoyable rugby. Thankfully the weather mostly held out, and fans enjoyed taking part in activities at the Wooden Spoon stand — with the ever-popular “Ball in the Hole” game proving a particular hit throughout the day.

We would like to say a huge thank you to the Inter Services Championships organisers and all three host venues for welcoming Wooden Spoon across the tournament. Most importantly, thank you to every volunteer who gave up their time to support us, and to everyone who visited our stands, donated, or entered our competition.

There’s still time to enter our FREE prize draw to win two tickets to the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Final:

👉 Enter the competition here

Good luck to everyone who has entered, and thank you once again for supporting Wooden Spoon.

The Wooden Spoon Flourishing Garden at Guildford Nursery School, a Playground & Outdoor Activities project in Surrey, has been awarded a grant of £18,000 from Wooden Spoon Surrey. This initiative, aimed at creating an engaging outdoor learning environment for young children, is set to make a meaningful impact on the local community by giving children a chance to learn.

Opened on the 24th March 2026, the new outdoor space has encouraged children to explore, discover and build confidence through play, helping to nurture curiosity, communication and social development in a safe and stimulating environment.

About Guildford Nursery School

Guildford Nursery School is dedicated to helping every child become more confident, capable and curious through an education experience tailored to their individual needs and interests. Led by a team of experienced and qualified staff, the nursery works closely with families to build on each child’s strengths and support their development through play-based learning.

The school has a strong reputation for championing outdoor learning and the benefits of nature-based education. Previous community gardening initiatives at the nursery have highlighted the importance of green spaces in supporting both wellbeing and learning.

The new Playground & Outdoor Activities project will build on this ethos by creating an inspiring outdoor environment designed to support early years learning, imaginative play and physical activity. The Wooden Spoon Flourishing Garden will provide opportunities for children to connect with nature, develop confidence outdoors and strengthen key social and emotional skills through exploration and shared experiences.

Funded by a generous Wooden Spoon Charity grant, this playground project aligns with Wooden Spoon’s commitment to creating inclusive and enriching environments that foster wellbeing, development and growth. The new space will give children the opportunity to learn through play while creating lasting benefits for families and the wider school community.

About Wooden Spoon

With a strong history of impactful, community-driven initiatives, Wooden Spoon strives to improve lives through physical, educational and social projects.

Through collaborations like this, Wooden Spoon continues its mission to bring about positive, lasting change in communities.

Get Involved

Support Playground & Outdoor Activities projects like this across the UK and Ireland by donating to Wooden Spoon or learn more here.

Wooden Spoon is proud to announce the launch of its new official playing kit in partnership with Howden and Canterbury, which will be worn by all Wooden Spoon Vets (Over-35s) and Open XV representative teams over the next three years.

As Wooden Spoon continues to strengthen its relationship with Howden, this exciting new partnership sees one of rugby’s most recognisable and respected brands proudly displayed on the iconic Wooden Spoon jersey. With a longstanding commitment to rugby at every level, culminating in sponsorship of the men’s British & Irish Lions, Howden’s deep-rooted connection to the game makes them a natural partner for Wooden Spoon and its growing rugby community.

Since 1983, more than 4,000 men and women have pulled on the famous Home Nations stripes to represent Wooden Spoon, the children’s charity of rugby, playing matches across the UK and internationally in support of children and young people with disabilities and facing disadvantage.

With representation spanning more than 15 countries, Wooden Spoon’s rugby programme continues to unite players, supporters and communities through the shared values of rugby and charitable purpose.

Each year, Wooden Spoon’s passionate rugby network plays around 30 fixtures, having generated more than £300,000 through raffles, auctions, matchday fundraising, after-dinner engagement and player match fees. More importantly, those matches help raise awareness of Wooden Spoon’s mission, giving children a chance, a chance to thrive, to play, to learn and to be safe, while creating life-changing opportunities for children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage.

Rugby is the vehicle, helping children is the purpose.
This new Howden-branded Canterbury kit marks an exciting new chapter in Wooden Spoon’s journey, helping elevate the charity’s visibility, broaden its reach and inspire new audiences to support its work. Together, Wooden Spoon and Howden share a commitment to the values that define rugby, teamwork, passion, integrity and fun, while working toward a bigger goal of creating brighter futures for children and young people across the UK and beyond.

“This partnership represents far more than a logo on a shirt. It is a statement of shared purpose. Howden’s passion for rugby and community perfectly aligns with Wooden Spoon’s mission, and we are incredibly proud to wear their name as we continue using rugby to change young lives for the better.”- Andy Jones, Head of Corporate Partnerships, Wooden Spoon

As Wooden Spoon takes to the field in its new design, every match played in the new kit will continue to stand for something bigger: friendship, fundraising and giving every child a chance.

Schoeman, a firm favourite among fans for his passion, energy and commitment on and off the pitch, will support Wooden Spoon’s mission to give children a chance to play, to learn, to thrive and to be safe.

Speaking at Scottish Gas Murrayfield, Schoeman said:

“Rugby has given me so much – a home, a family, and a community that welcomes everyone. With Scotland pushing hard in this year’s Six Nations and the crowd driving us on every week, you can really feel what this sport means to people. I’m proud to support Wooden Spoon because every child deserves the chance to feel included and to reach their potential.”

Wooden Spoon funds life changing projects across the UK, from accessible playgrounds and specialist equipment to community programmes and inclusive facilities. The charity has supported more than 1.5 million children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage since 1983.

Sarah Webb, CEO of Wooden Spoon, said:

“Pierre represents the spirit of rugby which is heart, humility and a deep sense of community. We are thrilled to welcome him as an ambassador and look forward to working together to champion opportunities for children who need them most.”

Schoeman’s first engagement as ambassador was filmed at Murrayfield’s sensory room which is one of hundreds of projects Wooden Spoon has supported nationwide. The room provides a calm, inclusive space for neurodivergent fans and families on matchdays.

Throughout the year, Schoeman will help raise awareness of Wooden Spoon’s work, support fundraising campaigns and shine a light on the charity’s impact across the UK.

Over the weekend, Wooden Spoon travelled to North Wales for our St David’s Day fixtures at Clwb Rygbi Caernarfon (Caernarfon RFC), enjoying a fantastic celebration of rugby, community spirit, and local pride.

The day was packed with competitive rugby matches that showcased skill, determination, and true sportsmanship. Supporters gathered on the sidelines to cheer on the teams, creating a vibrant matchday atmosphere. Off the pitch, players enjoyed delicious food and refreshments, with plenty of opportunities to come together, reconnect, and celebrate everything that makes the rugby community so special.

What stood out most throughout the weekend was the incredible sense of teamwork and camaraderie. From the players and volunteers to the supporters and organisers, everyone played their part in making the event such a success. The spirit of togetherness perfectly reflected the values at the heart of Wooden Spoon.

We’re proud to say that the event raised funds for North Wales, and every pound raised at Clwb Rygbi Caernarfon will stay in North Wales, directly supporting children and young people in the local community.

This local impact is something Wooden Spoon is incredibly proud of. Across all our regions, funds raised locally are invested locally, helping change the lives of children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage through the power of the rugby community.

Sarah Coleman, a Wooden Spoon spokesperson said:
“The St David’s Day fixtures in Caernarfon truly captured the spirit of what Wooden Spoon is all about. The rugby was fantastic, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming, and the generosity shown by everyone involved was inspiring. Events like this demonstrate the real power of the rugby community to make a meaningful difference locally.”

A huge thank you to everyone who took part, supported the event, and helped make the weekend so memorable, and to Lowri from Caernarfon RFC and Gary Bide for capturing the occasion so beautifully.

If you love rugby and love making a difference, why not become part of the Wooden Spoon family?

The Avenue Special Needs Academy in Tilehurst, Reading opened a new outdoor musical play area, which improves access to outdoor learning and enrichment opportunities in the Chilterns. This new inspiring project was made possible from a grant of £15,000 made possible by the Chilterns community. This initiative, aimed at creating an inspiring outdoor music-themed play environment for pupils with additional needs, is set to make a meaningful impact on the local community by giving children a chance to learn through creative play, exploration and sensory experience.

The Avenue Special Needs Academy has built a strong reputation for delivering specialist education to children and young people with a wide range of complex learning needs. Serving families across the Reading area, the academy is dedicated to helping every pupil develop confidence, independence and essential life skills.

The new project transformed a tired outdoor area into a vibrant, music-themed play space designed to stimulate sensory engagement and imaginative learning. The environment will provide opportunities for pupils to explore sound, movement and rhythm while developing communication, coordination and social skills in a safe and inclusive setting.

A member of the school’s leadership team recently shared with the Reading Chronicle that improving the outdoor space would give pupils “a place where they can express themselves, build confidence and enjoy learning in a way that suits their individual needs,” highlighting just how important this project will be for the school community.

Wooden Spoon Charity is a charity dedicated to transforming lives through the power of the rugby community. Committed to supporting children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage across the UK and Ireland, the charity has funded numerous projects that create opportunities for these individuals.

With a strong history of impactful, community-driven initiatives, Wooden Spoon strives to improve lives through physical, educational and social projects. Through collaborations like this, Wooden Spoon continues its mission to bring about positive, lasting change in communities.

Support giving children a chance to learn across the UK and Ireland by donating to Wooden Spoon or learn more at www.woodenspoon.org.uk/donate.

Bishopswood School at Sonning Common in the Chilterns invested in a minibus to help the school focus on accessible transport and community learning opportunities, has been awarded a £15,000 grant. This initiative, aimed at supporting children with severe, profound and complex learning disabilities, is set to make a meaningful impact on the local community by giving children a chance to learn through real-world experiences.

Established in 1977, Bishopswood School is a co-educational special school serving pupils aged 2–16 with severe and complex learning needs. Based across several sites in Oxfordshire, the school provides highly specialised education designed to help pupils develop communication, independence and life skills.

This new minibus will provide a safe and supportive transport environment, enabling pupils to access their local community more regularly. With access to the minibus, students will be able to visit shops, public spaces and community facilities where they can practise communication, independence and problem-solving skills in real-life settings.

As highlighted in a recent school publication, staff explained that access to a minibus would “make an incredible difference”, helping pupils to build confidence, communicate their needs and develop independence in everyday environments (Bishopswood School newsletter, 2024).

Funded by a generous Wooden Spoon Charity grant, this project aligns with Wooden Spoon’s commitment to creating inclusive, accessible environments that foster well-being, confidence and personal growth.

Support projects that give children a chance to learn across the UK and Ireland by donating to Wooden Spoon or learn more at www.woodenspoon.org.uk/donate
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Volunteer at Wooden Spoons unmissable rugby event for veteran players aged 35 and over.

There are various roles across the weekend from Friday 25th September, for the main event on Saturday 26 September.

Roles include

Event set-up & pack-down
Welcome & registration team
Pitch support volunteers
Fundraising & merchandise helpers
Refreshments support
Runners / general event helpers
Car parking & wayfinding marshals

To sign up simply scroll down and select the Free Volunteer Ticket.

Wooden Spoon, the children’s charity of rugby, is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with Little Giant Wine.

Available in supermarkets across the UK and sourced from specialist vineyards in South Australia, Little Giant has built a reputation for producing high-quality wines with big character and strong values, making them a natural fit for the Wooden Spoon family.

As part of the partnership, Little Giant will support Wooden Spoon’s fundraising activities throughout the year, helping to create life-changing opportunities for children and young people through rugby.

They will also take on a leading role as the Official Principal Partner of Vets Fest 2026, Wooden Spoon’s flagship event taking place this September. Vets Fest brings together the rugby community from across the UK and Ireland for a day of sport, camaraderie and fundraising, raising vital funds to support disadvantaged children and young people.

This new partnership reflects a shared commitment to community, connection and making a positive difference.

Wooden Spoon is delighted to welcome Little Giant to the family and looks forward to working together to raise funds, raise awareness and raise a glass to meaningful change.

You can join us at Vets Fest 2026 to be part of the action and help make a lasting difference. Sign up today and keep an eye out for more exciting announcements and partnership moments to come as we build towards an unforgettable event.

Building confidence, life skills and learning opportunities

1 in 5 pupils in the UK are persistently absent from school

Pupils with no absences are 2.2x likely to achieve 5+ good GCSE grades. We support projects and programmes such as The School of Hard Knocks that equip children and young people with essential life skills and supportive learning environments through the sport of rugby.

#ChanceToLearn

New outdoor area at Riverside School, a Specialist Equipment & Facilities project improving the outdoor area in Yorkshire, has been awarded a grant of £22,000. This project, is set to have a significant impact on the local community.

Riverside School is a special school on the edge of Goole and Hook, supporting pupils aged 2–19 with Severe Learning Difficulties and Profound and Multiple Learning Needs, set near the beautiful River Ouse.

This new outdoor area, which opened on 11th November 2025, provides an enhanced, accessible environment designed to help pupils by providing an outdoor area to one of their classrooms.

This Specialist Equipment & Facilities project was generously funded by a Wooden Spoon Charity grant. Wooden Spoon supports Riverside School’s dedication to creating inclusive, nurturing spaces that foster wellbeing and growth.

Wooden Spoon is a charitable organisation dedicated to transforming lives through the power of the rugby community. Known for its commitment to supporting children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage across the UK and Ireland, the charity has funded numerous projects that create opportunities for children and young people. With a strong track record of impactful, community-driven initiatives, Wooden Spoon aims to improve lives through physical, educational, and social projects. Through collaborations like this, Wooden Spoon continues its mission to make positive, lasting change in communities.

Support Specialist Equipment & Facilities projects across the UK and Ireland by donating to Wooden Spoon, or simply find out more here.

Fishguard and Goodwick Young Person’s Trust Ltd has been awarded a grant of £10,000 to upgrade their kitchen.

Welsh rugby legend Nigel Owens was the guest of honour at Point Youth Centre Fishguard at the opening of their new kitchen, funded by Wooden Spoon Wales & UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Nigel refereed 100 international tests , 4 Rugby World Cups including a World Cup final & staff & the local community joined representatives of Wooden Spoon Wales at the official opening.

Point has been supporting vulnerable young people aged 10- 25 across Pembrokeshire at the Popworks in Fishguard for almost 25 years & provides a safe meeting place where disadvantaged youngsters can meet & enjoy a hot meal as well as learn new life skills.

The new commercial-standard kitchen will enable the charity to continue providing 20–30 nutritious meals daily while expanding opportunities for young entrepreneurs and wider community initiatives.

Wooden Spoon is a charitable organisation dedicated to transforming lives through the power of the rugby community. Known for its commitment to supporting children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage across the UK and Ireland, the charity has funded numerous projects that create opportunities for children and young people. With a strong track record of impactful, community-driven initiatives, Wooden Spoon aims to improve lives through physical, educational, and social projects. Through collaborations such as this, Wooden Spoon continues its mission to make positive, lasting change in communities.

Support Specialist Equipment & Facilities projects across the UK and Ireland by donating to Wooden Spoon, or simply find out more here.

The incredible players and volunteers who took part can now proudly call themselves Guinness World Record Holders for “The Longest marathon playing rugby”: an achievement that showcases the true spirit of the rugby community.

The challenge, held over 18-19 June 2025 at Mullingar RFC in Ireland, saw four teams push the boundaries of endurance: the women’s squad completed an astonishing 26 hours 33 minutes of continuous play, and the men’s squad reached 34 hours 48 minutes.

By combining the world-record-breaking endeavour with a charitable purpose, this event has shown that rugby isn’t just about the scoreboard, it’s about uplifting communities, supporting mental health and ensuring no child is left behind.

Thanks to this event, over £100,000 has been raised and will be distributed among three outstanding charities aligned with rugby’s power to transform lives.

Wooden Spoon
The funds donated will enable the charity to reach over 5,000 children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage through its specialist projects that provide sensory spaces, outdoor activity, inclusive rugby and initiatives that support helping to combat poverty in the UK and Ireland.

LooseHeadz
Thanks to the funds raised, LooseHeadz will be able to extend their delivery programme to more clubs than ever, providing rugby specific mental health training programmes across the grassroots community.

The Lions Trust
The Lions Trust will deepen its commitment to support the welfare of ex Lions players.
As the Guinness verification confirms the milestone, the charities are now turning their attention to sustaining the legacy created by this event. All participants are encouraged to continue being ambassadors of change, promoting inclusion, mental health awareness and the power of sport

“This was about more than breaking records,” said Matt Bishop, Wooden Spoon player “It was about community, perseverance, and doing something extraordinary to support causes we care deeply about. Every blister, bruise, and sleepless hour was worth it.”

Sarah Webb, CEO, Wooden Spoon said:

“What makes this achievement so special is the heart behind it. So, we’d like to say thank you to every player, volunteer, referee, and supporter who gave their all, not for personal glory, but to make a difference in the lives of others.

The funds raised will enable Wooden Spoon to reach thousands of children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage, giving them opportunities to play, learn, and thrive. To have a Guinness World Record as part of that story is something very special and a symbol of what can be achieved when our rugby family comes together”

Hannah Stallard, Head of Community, LooseHeadz said:

“We have been absolutely blown away by the support for this bonkers challenge. From the players involved, to the team at Mullingar RFC, and all the supporters who have given so generously with both their time and donations, we absolutely could not have done this without them.

At LooseHeadz, we are incredibly passionate about providing mental health training & support to people in the grassroots game, and the money raised from the Longest Game will go a long way to helping us support players, coaches & fans at more than 1,350 rugby clubs across 36 different countries.”

There is still time to make a donation https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/longest-game

Thank you to our sponsors who helped make The Longest Game happen : LMAX Exchange, ICS Mortgages, Canterbury, OPRO , NOCCO, d3 tape.

You can watch our mini documentary here: https://youtu.be/C4CQYjCO3MM?si=a2yvTzwk09YI_i3G

Outdoor Classroom, at Nursery Hill Primary School, a Specialist Equipment & Facilities project focused on creating a new outdoor classroom in Warwickshire, has been awarded a grant of £13,000.

This project aims to provide pupils with an inspiring outdoor learning environment that encourages creativity, curiosity, and a love of nature. The new facility will help children develop their confidence, teamwork, and problem-solving skills while learning in an engaging and inclusive space.

Nursery Hill Primary School is committed to developing well-rounded, confident, and responsible individuals who aspire to achieve their full potential. The school provides a welcoming, happy, safe, and supportive learning environment where every child is valued and all achievements are celebrated.

The new outdoor classroom, which opens on the 21st of October 2025, offers an exciting and flexible space designed to enhance learning through hands-on outdoor experiences. It will be used across the curriculum to support pupils’ physical, emotional, and academic development.

This Specialist Equipment & Facilities project was generously funded by a Wooden Spoon Charity grant. Wooden Spoon supports Nursery Hill Primary School’s dedication to creating enriching environments that foster wellbeing, learning, and growth.

Wooden Spoon is a charitable organisation dedicated to transforming lives through the power of the rugby community. Known for its commitment to supporting children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage across the UK and Ireland, the charity has funded numerous projects that create opportunities for children and young people. With a proven track record of impactful, community-driven projects, Wooden Spoon continues to improve lives through physical, educational, and social initiatives. Through collaborations like this, Wooden Spoon remains committed to making a positive, lasting difference in communities.

Support Specialist Equipment & Facilities projects across the UK and Ireland by donating to Wooden Spoon, or find out more here.

Jim-White-and-The-Outdoor-Learning-Environment-at-NHP

This project, designed to provide pupils with a safe, inclusive, and engaging space for play and physical development, is set to have a significant impact on the local community. Killard House School works collaboratively and creatively to enable a meaningful, purposeful, and personalised learning journey that fosters curiosity, independence, and achievement in each learner.

The new playground, which is set to open on the 30th of September 2025, provides a stimulating environment designed to help pupils build confidence, develop social skills, and enjoy the benefits of active outdoor play.

This Playground & Outdoor Activities project was generously funded by a Wooden Spoon Charity grant. Wooden Spoon supports Killard House School’s dedication to creating inclusive, supportive environments that foster wellbeing and growth.

The special needs school caters for children with a range of learning difficulties, many severe and profound. Wooden Spoon funded an outdoor play space to create a fully inclusive play and sensory environment area which caters to the needs of all pupils and includes free-standing play sheds, a sensory pathway, a traverse cube and clatter bridge.

Victoria Sparkes, Trustee of Wooden Spoon, on the change the additional funds make:

“At Killard House, a special needs school, the outdoor play area now gives children with severe learning disabilities a chance to move, explore and interact with peers, things that weren’t possible before. This truly can be transformative.”

Wooden Spoon is a charitable organisation dedicated to transforming lives through the power of the rugby community. Known for its commitment to supporting children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage across the UK and Ireland, the charity has funded numerous projects that create opportunities for children and young people. With a track record of impactful, community-driven projects, Wooden Spoon aims to improve lives through physical, educational, and social initiatives. Through collaborations like this, Wooden Spoon continues its mission to make positive, lasting change in communities.

Support Playground & Outdoor Activities projects across the UK and Ireland by donating funds to Wooden Spoon or simply find out more here.

Vets Fest is more than a festival of rugby – it’s a force for change. Every pound raised by teams and regions stays in their local area, funding life-changing Wooden Spoon projects that support children and young people living with disabilities or facing disadvantage.

That means when a team pulls on their shirts, laces up their boots, and raises funds, they’re not just playing rugby – they’re helping to deliver projects in their own communities. From specialist minibuses that give children access to therapies and experiences beyond the school gates, to sensory gardens where children with complex needs can play, learn and thrive, every try scored and every donation made at Vets Fest has a direct impact close to home.

This local focus is what makes Vets Fest so powerful – a national event with regional pride at its heart, uniting the rugby family while changing lives across the UK and Ireland.

Tournament Champions

After a thrilling day on the pitch, the Vets Fest 2025 Champions were crowned:

Scotland Men
Essex & South East Women

Both titles were the result of impressive teamwork and planning, with thanks to captains Colin Stuart, Mark Kane and Cally Finch, alongside Vicky Flower and Gemma Wilson for their leadership and support.

Fundraising Heroes

As always, fundraising was at the heart of the day – and the teams went above and beyond. Every pound raised will directly fund local Wooden Spoon projects.

Two teams broke the £3,000 barrier
One topped £4,000
Scotland Men raised an incredible £6,900

Fundraising Cup Winners:

Men: Cumbria
Women: Scotland

Huge congratulations to Jim Beary and Kath Vass for their efforts in rallying their squads.

Rugby Cups

On the field, the action was fast, fierce and full of smiles. The Rugby Cups went to:

Women: Northumberland Spoon (captained by Janette Evans)
Men: Omerta Spoon

Community Thanks

Festivals like this don’t happen without an army of volunteers and officials. Special thanks to Mark Challis, who led the referee team, and to everyone who gave their time to make the day run smoothly.

Our hosts, Tynedale RFC, provided a superb setting for the festival, and we’re grateful for their hospitality.

Behind the scenes, Wooden Spoon Northumberland’s Dennis Hetherington, Ian Dawson and Iain Stewart were instrumental in coordinating the event.

A Lasting Legacy

This year’s festival was also a moment to remember Neal “Paddy” Patterson, our much-loved men’s captain and committee member, whose spirit and passion for Wooden Spoon lives on in the heart of Vets Fest. As well as Co-Founder Peter Scott, Ronnie Richardson, John Dennison and Matt Jones.

Save the Date

Mark your calendars now – Vets Fest 2026 returns to Tynedale RFC on 26 September 2026. Expect even more rugby, community spirit and fundraising magic.

During The British & Irish Lions thrilling Test Series in Australia, Wooden Spoon – the Children’s Charity of Rugby and an Official Charity Partner of the The Lions Trust – made an equally meaningful impact off the pitch. At the heart of that work was Wooden Spoon CEO Sarah Webb, who spent the Tour proudly representing the charity, engaging with the rugby community, and highlighting the power of sport to transform lives.

“It’s been a privilege to work alongside the British and Irish Lions and our fellow partner charities whilst on the Tour,” said Sarah. “I have seen first-hand the power of the rugby community travelling across the world – the four countries that we work within uniting to support one goal.”

From stadium fan zones to grassroots clubhouses, Sarah has spent the tour connecting with people who know and support Wooden Spoon’s mission – and introducing the charity to many more. Her schedule included attending the Captains Run on 18th July and soaking up the electric atmosphere at the Lions Den and the first Test match in Brisbane on the 19th. She was also at the First Nations and Pasifika XV v Lions match on the 22nd, and supported at the Gullivers Travel Wooden Spoon rugby match at Melbourne RFC on the 25th – a fantastic opportunity to combine rugby, fun, and fundraising. followed by a trip back to the Lions Den and a ticket to see the Lions win the Series at MCG, Melbourne.

“I feel extremely privileged to have recently represented Wooden Spoon on the British and Irish Lions Tour. This was made possible by our partnership with The Lions Trust and our very supportive partners Gulliver’s Sports Travel.

I was thrilled to see so many of our amazing volunteers whilst in Australia – all primed and ready to support with our awareness and fundraising and some of them even donning their boots to play at Melbourne rugby club to represent Gulliver’s Wooden Spoon Barbarians. One of the players came straight from the plane and onto the pitch!

Raising awareness on this international platform has been an amazing opportunity for which I will be forever grateful..”

For Sarah, two of the most powerful moments of the Tour so far came off the field. On 29th July, she visited Sargood on Collaroy – a world-leading rehabilitation facility that supports individuals and families living with spinal injuries, in partnership with the Matt Hampson Foundation. “Sargood is a truly inspirational centre. Seeing the impact they have on people’s lives was both humbling and energising.” That same day, she joined Wooden Spoon’s fellow charity partner LooseHeadz at Hunters Hill RFC in Sydney for a mental health awareness session. “LooseHeadz delivered a vital message about the importance of mental health in our clubs. It’s initiatives like this that make real, lasting change.”

Wooden Spoon funds life-changing projects for children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage across the UK and Ireland. From inclusive playgrounds and specialist equipment to mental health support and education initiatives, every project is driven by one mission: to harness the spirit and community of rugby to create positive, lasting impact.

As the Lions inspired on the pitch, Wooden Spoon – led by Sarah Webb’s passionate presence in Australia – continued to inspire off it, proving once again that rugby’s reach goes far beyond the game itself.

Looseheadz-My-Names-Doddie-and-WS-in-Sydney

Get ready to join the celebration as National Wooden Spoon Day takes place on 19th March, marking the anniversary of Wooden Spoon’s founding in 1983. This special day is a chance to honour the rich history and incredible impact of Wooden Spoon, the children’s charity of rugby, dedicated to supporting children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage across the UK and Ireland.

Wooden Spoon’s supporters, beneficiaries, and the wider rugby community are coming together to raise awareness and funds in a fun and meaningful way. We are inviting all to get involved. Whether you choose to host a fundraising event, take part in a rugby match, wear Wooden Spoon colours, or simply spread the word on social media, every action – big or small – makes a difference!

How You Can Get Involved

There are countless ways to celebrate #WoodenSpoonDay and show your support:

Post on Social Media: Either using the National Wooden Spoon Day graphics or getting involved with The Pass the ball campaign on social media (goes live on 19th March)

Organise a Mufti Day or Wooden Spoon Decorating Competition: A fun way for children to participate while raising funds. Get Wooden Spoon Branded items.

Host a Fundraising Event: Plan a charity lunch, bake sale, or raffle to support the cause.

Wear Wooden Spoon Colours: Show solidarity and spread awareness by donning Wooden Spoon-themed outfits. Get Wooden Spoon Branded items.

Donate to Wooden Spoon.

Sarah Webb, CEO of Wooden Spoon, encourages everyone to take part:

“National Wooden Spoon Day is a fantastic opportunity for communities to come together and make a real difference in the lives of children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage. Whether you’re passing a rugby ball, hosting an event, or simply spreading the word, every action helps us continue our mission. Join us on 19th March and be part of something truly special.”

Make Some Noise for Wooden Spoon!

With your help, we can make National Wooden Spoon Day bigger and better than ever. Don’t forget to tag us in your posts and use #WoodenSpoonDay to spread the word.

Vets Fest 24 brought together over 800 veteran rugby players from across the UK and Ireland, raising an impressive £100,000 for Wooden Spoon. The event, featuring 16 men’s and 12 women’s teams, was a celebration of sport, community, and charitable giving.

With teams donning vibrant fancy dress costumes and creatively decorating their gazebos, the atmosphere was electric. Despite a week of unpredictable weather leading up to the event, the day was sunny, providing the perfect backdrop for a day filled with rugby action and camaraderie.

The event, a cornerstone in Wooden Spoon’s annual calendar, not only celebrated the sport but also raised crucial funds for projects benefiting children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage. Participating teams were judged on both their performance on the pitch and their fundraising efforts for the charity.

It was also Wooden Spoon Ambassador and former England rugby captain, Gill Burn’s, last full-contact rugby match. Gill led the Merseyside and North women’s team to victory in the Plate final, marking the end of an illustrious career. Her team also took home the fundraising trophy, raising the most money for Wooden Spoon.

Gill Burns said, “It’s been really special today. I met some lovely new mates in the Northern team, we really bonded, and everyone worked hard. It was an absolute pleasure, and the icing on the cake was winning the Plate final. When I retired from international rugby, we didn’t win the trophy I was hoping for, so this makes up for it in a little way. Wooden Spoon is a great charity, and it’s a pleasure to be here.”

Among the standout moments of the day were the Kent women’s team lifting the Maddy Lawrence Memorial Cup and the Kent men’s team securing the Olly Stephens Memorial Cup. These teams were the overall winners of the rugby and fundraising combined.

Wooden Spoon CEO Sarah Webb expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support from the rugby community: “It’s amazing to see everyone come together, not just for the love of the game, but to support such an important cause. The energy today was unbelievable, and it’s a real testament to what rugby can achieve both on and off the pitch.” She also extended her thanks to the event’s sponsors: “A special thanks goes to our main sponsor, OMERTA, whose support made Vets Fest such a success. Their generosity enables us to continue funding life-changing projects for children and young people. Today’s event will have a lasting impact on many lives.”

As the day came to a close, it was clear that Vets Fest 24 had been a huge success—not only in the funds raised but in the unity and spirit of the rugby community. The festival was a powerful reminder of how sport can bring people together for a greater cause, leaving a lasting legacy both on and off the pitch.

On Saturday 15th September 2024, Wooden Spoon, the children’s charity of rugby, took center stage at the home of England Rugby, the Allianz Stadium, Twickenham. Volunteers from the charity descended on the stadium for the Red Roses’ much-anticipated match against the Black Ferns, seizing the opportunity to raise awareness and collect donations for projects across the UK and Ireland. The event also marked the official opening of a new sensory room at the stadium, a milestone in Wooden Spoon’s ongoing mission to support and include children with special needs in the rugby community.

Fifteen dedicated volunteers, armed with collection buckets, greeted the passionate crowd at Twickenham, encouraging fans to contribute to Wooden Spoon’s various initiatives aimed at improving the lives of children. The day was made even more special by the return of Red Roses prop and Wooden Spoon ambassador, Sarah Bern, who was back in the starting lineup for England.

Sarah Bern’s connection to the sensory room project is deeply personal. After seeing her nephew struggle to enjoy a live match due to sensory sensitivities, Bern set out on a mission to create a welcoming environment for all fans, regardless of their needs. Thanks to her vision and partnership with Wooden Spoon, the new sensory room at Twickenham now offers a safe and supportive space for children and families who might otherwise find the matchday experience overwhelming.

The sensory room is a step forward in Wooden Spoon’s commitment to inclusion, ensuring that rugby truly is a game for everyone. The charity continues to make strides across the UK and Ireland, funding projects that transform lives, and their presence at Twickenham further showcased their dedication to making rugby accessible to all.

Congratulations to our 23 dedicated runners who participated in the London Marathon, joining 40,000 other participants on their 26.2-mile journey through the streets of London. Collectively they have smashed their fundraising goal, raising over £80,000 for Wooden Spoon.
We can’t thank them enough for the incredible impact their fundraising will have on the lives of children and young people with disabilities or those facing disadvantage. Thank you for making a difference!

The 2025 marathon is now sold out, but if If you would like to run on behalf of Wooden Spoon in other events please visit our event page for our latest events.