Ridge House Day Nursery

Marlston Road, Thatcham RG18 9UL
Review Us
10 12 Reviews
  • Ridge House Day Nursery, Thatcham
The 51 week a year nursery is a vibrant and innovative extension to the well-established Pre-Prep, founded in 1929.

Nestled within a beautiful and expansive woodland setting, the nursery embraces an outdoor ethos where play-based learning is at the heart of early development. The natural surroundings provide an ideal backdrop for children to explore, discover, and grow, aligning with the belief that early education should nurture the whole child through meaningful, active experiences.
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Type of Service

  • Day Nursery
  • Open all year
  • Full Day Care
  • Sessional Day Care

Owner

  • Brockhurst and Marlston House Schools
  • Privately Owned

Person in Charge

  • Caroline Simm (Head of Nursery)

Admission Information

  • Children must have reached their second birthday.

Total Places for Children

  • 56

Age Range

  • from 2 years
  • to 4 years

Funding & Fees

  • 51 Weeks
    Full Time 8 a.m - 6 p.m - £90.00 per day
    Short Day 8 a.m - 3.45 p.m - £80.00 per day
    Mornings 8 a.m - 1.00 p.m - £70.00 per day
    Afternoons 1 p.m - 6 p.m - £70.00 per day
    Full Day 8 a.m - 6 p.m (1-4 days per week)
    - £100.00 per day
    Dip in to suit ad hoc, Full Day
    – £100.00 per day


    Term Time
    Full Time 8 a.m - 3.45 p.m - £4,600.00 per term
    Full Day 8 a.m - 6 p.m (1-4 days per week) - £85.00 per day

  • Nappies & Cream, Sun Hats & Cream & Waterproofs all included in fees
    Full Time, Short Day, Mornings & Full Day all include lunch, snack, Swimming, PE & Music
    EYEE Funding – You are entitled to claim up to 15 hours free entitlement, from the term after your child turns 3. Please be aware that you may only claim for the hours you actually attend Brockhurst & Marlston House Schools. Eligibility for 30 hours and funded 2 year olds is based upon assessment

Opening Times

  • Monday 08:00-18:00
    Tuesday 08:00-18:00
    Wednesday 08:00-18:00
    Thursday 08:00-18:00
    Friday 08:00-18:00

When Closed

  • Bank Holidays & 1 week at Christmas

Parking

  • Ample private off-road parking is available.

Ridge House Day Nursery Reviews (12)

10

Ridge House Day Nursery has a Review Score of 10 (10.000) out of 10, based on 12 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Ridge House Day Nursery has 12 reviews.

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Review from Carly P (Mother of Child) published on 1 December 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I have two children, both of whom have attended this nursery from the age of 2 years old. Both children are very different in nature but they have both had amazing experiences. What's important to me is that they provide a fun and welcoming environment where my boys have been able to grow and develop
into wonderful little people. They have made great friends who have remained into the prep school (for my eldest son) and most importantly, they were happy to go to nursery. The teaching staff are exceptional and the activities available are stimulating and fun. My 4 year old is currently in the "big nursery" for the 3-4 year old children and he has swimming lessons twice a week, ballet, groovy movers as well as wellie walks, music lessons, PE and lots of outdoors play. He is truly shattered by the end of each day but that's because his days have been filled to the brim with opportunities to play and learn.
Reply from Rachel Harper, and the team at Ridge House Day Nursery
Thank you so much Carly. We're delighted that your children have had such a great experience in our Nursery.
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Review from Sophia K (Mother of Child) published on 27 November 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We've had an amazing experience with Ridgehouse based within the local school. The staff are warm, professional, and genuinely care about the children. The curriculum is well-balanced, combining strong early education with fun activities that keep the kids excited to learn. My son joined at the age
of 2 and he is loving it & always asks for more nursery time. It's great they also offer year round nursery and not just term time only. I love that they include such a wide range of programs - from music and P.E. to swimming - which helps develop both confidence and coordination. The schedule is well-structured and thoughtfully designed, giving the children a great balance between learning, play, and rest.Overall, I couldn't be happier with the care and education my child is receiving here. It's clear that the team goes above and beyond to create a nurturing and stimulating environment. Highly recommend to any parents looking for quality early education and care!
Reply from Rachel Harper, and the Team at Ridge House Day Nursery
It is fantastic to read these wonderful words, Sophie. Thank you for your kindness!
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Review from Daisy W (Mother of Child) published on 26 November 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
All 3 of our children have been through the Ridge House nursery within the last 4 years. Each of them has benefitted hugely from the supportive and flexible learning environment. The RH staff manage to perfectly balance structured play with independent learning, making the transition from pre-school
to Reception almost seamless. Class sizes are big enough to feel busy but small enough that each child receives personalised care and individual attention. All staff really know the children and carefully balance their individual needs. There is a great mix of indoor and outdoor play and very much a feeling of getting outside, whatever the weather! The extra-curricular clubs and activities on offer are extensive and the children in the nursery benefit from all the resources and facilities available at a prep school with the additional flexibility of being able to attend term-time only or for 51 weeks of the year. Most importantly though, all the pupils are happy to be there!
Reply from Rachel Harper, and the Team at Ridge House Day Nursery
Thank you so much, Daisy. This is a fantastic review, and we are so grateful to you for taking the time write.
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Review from Tanya B (Mother of Child) published on 17 November 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We first viewed the nursery in April 2023 for a September start, and from that very first visit, we just knew it was the right place for our family - and I still feel exactly the same today. The facilities are fantastic and always so well maintained, and the staff are incredibly kind, patient, and supportive
with every child in their care.
My son initially struggled to settle in, but the team worked closely with us to help him adapt, showing so much understanding and care. Thanks to their support, the transition was smooth and gentle - with minimal tears on both sides! He spoke so fondly of his time there and always looked forward to going in.
Since moving on to reception, it's been clear how much the nursery's early learning framework prepared him - he's absolutely thriving.
My daughter is now in the big nursery and loving every second. She's blossoming into such a confident, happy little girl, and I couldn't be more grateful.
I honestly can't recommend this nursery enough
Reply from Rachel Harper, and the Team at Ridge House Day Nursery
Thank you so much for your lovely comments, Tanya. We are very grateful for your feedback.
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Review from Jenny J (Mother of Child) published on 22 September 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We want to express our sincere gratitude for the exceptional experience our daughter has had at Ridge House. We couldn't be happier with her time there, and she has truly loved every minute.
The learning opportunities provided have been remarkable, giving her an excellent foundation for school and
life in general. The approach of having lessons with different teachers, even in the nursery, has been particularly beneficial. We also greatly appreciate the wide range of extra bookable activities offered within the school day, which we have fully utilised. Beyond the academics, we have been impressed by the school's warm and welcoming social environment. Everyone has been incredibly supportive, and it feels as though nothing is ever too much trouble. We also wanted to commend the school's commitment to freshly prepared meals, and the dining experience for the children. The use of local businesses within the kitchen and throughout the school is another aspect we truly value. TOP MARKS!!
Reply from Rachel Harper, and the Team at Ridge House Day Nursery
Thank you so much for this lovely review. We are just delighted to receive such positive feedback.
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Review from Ellen S (Mother of Child) published on 17 July 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We couldn't be happier with Ridge House.
Both of our children have attended and it has been the most wonderful start for them. The environment is amazing; the outdoor spaces and play equipment are exceptional, and the children spend so much time outside exploring and playing in nature. From weekly
welly walks to swimming sessions, they are constantly active and engaged in such a healthy, stimulating way.
What really sets Ridge House apart is how much it feels like a family. All the staff, from the nursery team to the school teachers, catering staff and even the groundskeepers, know and care about the children. The food is cooked from scratch and the children enjoy eating together in the main dining room, which feels so special.
After living in London, Ridge House has been a breath of fresh air, both literally and figuratively, and we feel so lucky to have found it. We could not recommend it more highly.
Reply from Rachel Harper, and the Team at Ridge House Day Nursery
Thank you, Ellen. This is such a lovely review and we are delighted that your experience has been such a positive one.
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Review from Debbie O (Mother of Child) published on 14 July 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We love Ridge House for its very nurturing environment and our children are flourishing at the nursery. They offer a huge amount of activity for the mind and body and we couldn't be happier as parents. Our twins were born early and cognitively had much to catch up on, they have made huge strides since
starting the nursery and it is a joy to watch.


We had started at Cheam with our older child and were so glad we moved over to Ridge House. She has been so happy since day 1. All of the children run into nursery with huge smiles on their faces, which is such a wonderful way to start their education, with a love of school.


It really is a great combination of outdoor exercise, excellent teaching and a host of activity in a very nurturing environment.

Reply from Rachel Harper, and the Team at Ridge House Day Nursery
Thank you very much, Debbie. We are delighted your children are so happy.
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Review from S H (Mother of Child) published on 11 July 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
A truly exceptional setting with wonderful and caring staff. My children have loved being in the nursery and undertaking all the activities they can do. A fantastic garden and outside space with lots of option for extra curricular activities too (ballet, dance, judo etc.) Swimming timetabled into the
day which is a great bonus.
Reply from Rachel Harper, and the Team at Ridge House Day Nursery
Thank you so much for your lovely comments. We are delighted that your children are so happy.
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Review from Gemma C (Mother of Child) published on 10 July 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We couldn't be happier with our son's experience at nursery. He started at 2 years old and is now 3, and from day one he's absolutely loved it. As a parent, it's daunting leaving your child in someone else's care, but the team-especially his wonderful teacher -made the transition so easy.


She's warm,

nurturing, and clearly passionate about what she does. My child adores her. All the staff are fantastic! Caring, patient, and truly invested in the children's wellbeing.


The setting is beautiful, with brilliant facilities and a lovely outdoor space. Every day is filled with fun, varied activities, and we love receiving daily photos and updates showing Elliot happy and thriving.


We have complete peace of mind knowing he's in such kind and capable hands. The care and attention he receives means the world to us. We honestly couldn't recommend this nursery more highly.

Reply from Rachel Harper, and the Team at Ridge House Day Nursery
Thank you so much for your kind words, Gemma. Your comments about our staff are incredibly kind.
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Review from Lindsay J (Mother of Child) published on 8 July 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We moved our thoughtful, sensitive son to Ridge House after he struggled to settle at a previous nursery. It was the best decision we could have made. After nearly two years, he is a totally different character - he talks excitedly about what he has been learning, he greets all of the staff with smiles,
and he is relaxed whenever we discuss nursery and his impending move into Reception.
There are many magical elements of the nursery: the open, light rooms; the access that the children have to outdoors; the facilities and extra activities; the connection the nursery children have to older children in the school. However, the standout feature of the setting is undoubtedly the staff - their care, their warmth, and their interest in the children as individuals. In addition, the fact that a number of the nursery staff are qualified teachers also means that there is a real culture of curiosity being fostered for the children, without any sense of pressure. It really is a wonderful setting.
Reply from Rachel Harper, and the Team at Ridge House Day Nursery
Thank you so much. We are so delighted that your son is thriving with us.
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Review from Ludmilla L (Mother of Child) published on 13 June 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our daughter has been at Ridge House since her second birthday and we could not be happier with the nursery. The quality of the care and teaching are outstanding. The children are so well looked after and all literally skip into class. We will be starting reception after three years in the nursery this
September and will also enroll our younger daughter when she turns 2. The kids do swimming, ballet, yoga, groovy movers and judo from age 2 with the option to add tennis in "big" nursery. We live closer to Cheam and Elstree but have been so impressed with Ridge
House and our daughter is so happy that we will be staying for school too.
Reply from Rachel Harper, and the Team at Ridge House Day Nursery
Thank you so much. We are delighted that your daughter has had such a positive experience. Your comments are very much appreciated by all in Ridge House.
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Review from Lydia D (Mother of Child) published on 10 June 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Ridge House Nursery has been the most magical setting for both of my children. My son started when he was just 3, and my daughter began at age 2. From the very beginning, both of them were incredibly happy and settled - a testament to the warm, nurturing, and inspiring environment created by the wonderful
staff.
The setting itself is truly exceptional. It's not just beautiful, but thoughtfully designed to encourage curiosity, creativity, and confidence. The opportunity for the nursery children to interact with the older years during playtime was something I especially loved - it fosters a real sense of community and helps develop valuable social skills early on.
What sets Ridge House apart is its caring, family-like atmosphere. It's rare to find a nursery where your child isn't just a number. Every member of staff seems to know every child, engaging with them regardless of which room they're in, which makes such a difference. You really feel your child is seen, known, and cherished.
Reply from Rachel Harper, and the team at Ridge House Day Nursery
Thank you. The staff will be so pleased to hear this, and we are delighted that your experience has been so positive.
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Current Review Score: 10.0 (10.000)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 10 (10.000) out of 10 for Ridge House Day Nursery is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  1. The Average Rating is 5.0 out of 5 from 12 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 12 positive Reviews in the last 24 months.

Detailed Breakdown of Review Score

The maximum Review Score for a Day Nursery is 10, which is made up from the Average Rating of Reviews (maximum of 5 points) and the Number of Reviews (maximum of 5 points) in the last 24 months:

  1. 5 Points are available for the Average Rating from all Reviews in the last 24 months. The Average Rating of 5.000 for Ridge House Day Nursery is calculated as follows: ( (144 Excellents x 5) ) ÷ 144 Ratings = 5
  2. 5 Points are available for the number of Positive Reviews in the last 24 months. A Positive Review is defined as any Review with an 'Overall Experience' of '4' or '5' (out of a max rating '5'). The 5 Points relating to the number of positive Reviews for Ridge House Day Nursery is based on 12 positive Reviews in the last 24 months and is calculated as per below:

    The 5 points available are broken down as follows:

    1. 4 points are available for the first 10 Positive Reviews in the last 24 months; 3 points for the first Positive Review, and then 0.125 Points for each of the next four Positive Reviews and then 0.1 Points for the next five Positive Reviews. (1st = 3.000, 2nd = 0.125, 3rd = 0.125, 4th = 0.125, 5th = 0.125, 6th = 0.100, 7th = 0.100, 8th = 0.100, 9th = 0.100, 10th = 0.100) 3 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 = 4
    2. 1 point is available for the number of Positive Reviews reaching 20% of the number of registered child places in the last 24 months. If this number is partially reached, then that proportion of 1 point is given. eg a Day Nursery registered for a maximum of 50 child places has to reach 10 Positive Reviews to receive 1 point, if it has 7 reviews it will receive 0.7 points. 20% of the 56 number of registered child places is 11.2, which has been reached with 12 Positive reviews. Points = 1
  3. When a Review is submitted by someone who has previously submitted a Review, only the latest Review will count towards the Review Score.
  4. If a Day Nursery does not have a review in the last 24 months, then it will not have a Review Score.

Child Vacancies

Please contact us for latest vacancies.

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Awards / Recognitions (0)

Meet the Team (1)

Caroline

Caroline Simm

Job Title: Head of Nursery Joined: 2010

Head of Nursery

Frequently Asked Questions about Ridge House Day Nursery

What is the Age Range of Children that Ridge House Day Nursery accepts?

Ridge House Day Nursery accepts Children aged from 2 years to 4 years.

What Days & Hours is Ridge House Day Nursery Open?

Ridge House Day Nursery is open: Monday 08:00-18:00, Tuesday 08:00-18:00, Wednesday 08:00-18:00, Thursday 08:00-18:00, Friday 08:00-18:00.

How many Children does Ridge House Day Nursery have capacity for?

Ridge House Day Nursery has capacity for a total of 56 Children.

How far is Ridge House Day Nursery to the centre of Thatcham?

2.8 mile(s) as the crow flies, distance by road may be significantly further.

Information on this page is displayed without responsibility for its accuracy on the part of daynurseries.co.uk. Please contact Ridge House Day Nursery to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Ridge House Day Nursery has an Enhanced Service - more info.