Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School

73 Ermin Street, Brockworth, Gloucester GL3 4EH
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9.6 38 Reviews
  • Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School, Gloucester
Ridgemount Nursery is an established family-run nursery in the heart of Brockworth. They are outdoor-focused, encouraging children to enjoy the benefits of nature all year and making full use of their outdoor areas, including an allotment, woodland, and adventure garden.

They provide a nurturing environment for all age groups, with cosy corners, natural materials and a range of activities to encourage children with all different interests to engage and play. They follow the EYFS framework to create these play opportunities, and aim to inspire children's curiosity in the world around them.

Ridgemount encourage children and their families to embrace their community, with visits to the library, retirement home and local park, as well as hosting family coffee mornings, a summer party and Christmas carols.

Care Provided by Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School

  • Type of Service
  • Day Nursery – Privately Owned
  • Open all year
  • Full Day Care
  • Sessional Day Care

Good to Know

  • Owner
  • Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School
  • Person in charge
  • Caron Humphris (Manager)
  • Number of Childcare Staff
  • 23
  • Total Places for Children
  • 120
  • Age Range
    • from 0 years 9 months
    • to 4 years 11 months
  • Opening Times
  • Monday 07:30-18:00
    Tuesday 07:30-18:00
    Wednesday 07:30-18:00
    Thursday 07:30-18:00
    Friday 07:30-18:00
  • When Closed
  • Bank Holidays

Funding & Fees Guide for Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School

  • Starting at £63 per full day (8am-6pm)


  • Contact us to learn more about government funding that could be available to you.


Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School Reviews (38)

Total of 38, showing 1-20
9.6

Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School has a Review Score of 9.6 (9.579) out of 10, based on 20 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School has 38 reviews.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We've had all 3 of our kids in this nursery and I couldn't be happier! Every time I go there I secretly hope I was a kid again! They have a fantastic outdoor area - forest school vibes everyday. All my kids absolutely loved seeing the chickens and picking the eggs. When I drop my littlest one off I
feel like I'm dropping them off at a family member's house, I trust them wholeheartedly, such lovely people work there! Also, amazing business bringing the local community together! Lots of events and occasions to catch up with old friends even after your kids gone to school. My two eldest love visiting for summer BBQs or reunion events!

Reply from Stewart Hendry, Owner at Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School

Thank you for the lovely review! We hope you all keep returning to our events, even after your youngest has left for school!


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I couldn't be happier with the care and support provided by this nursery. The staff are incredibly kind, attentive and genuinely care about the children's well-being and development. My child has thrived here, building confidence, making friends and always coming home with a smile and stories about
their day. The team creates a safe, nurturing and engaging environment and they go above and beyond to make each child feel special and supported.
I have always felt well-informed about my child's progress and activities and the open communication with the staff has been fantastic. It's clear that this is a place where children are truly valued and cared for.
Thank you to all the team for everything you do, you're absolutely amazing.

Reply from Stewart Hendry, Owner at Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School

Thank you very much for this kind review. It's lovely for our team to know their hard work is paying off.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Both of my daughters have attended Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School. My eldest daughter is now six years old and attended from the age of 9 months. My youngest is now four years old and I'm already feeling a bit sad about her leaving Ridgemount in the summer. My daughters have absolutely thrived here
and my husband and I have been privileged to see the nursery change and develop over the years, going from strength to strength. Many of the staff have been at Ridgemount for years which signifies their happiness working there which has in turn helped my children to flourish. The staff always have the children's best interests at heart. I feel comfortable and secure leaving my youngest in their excellent care and attribute many of the strengths my daughters have to the wonderful staff at Ridgemount. This is a truly remarkable nursery. I would highly recommend to anyone.

Reply from Stewart Hendry, Owner at Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School

Thank you for this review. We feel so privileged to have played a small part in your daughters' early years.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Both my sons 11months & 3 years go to Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School and have done since they were 9 months old. We love the nursery environment, especially the amount of time spent outside. The boys couldn't be happier and we are happy as parents we can leave our special people with Ridgemount staff
and not worry.

Reply from Stewart Hendry, Owner at Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School

Thank you. We are so glad you are all enjoying your time with us.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Ridgemount is a fantastic nursery with a lovely ethos and feel. My son really enjoys his time there and has made friends I am sure he will have for a life. The staff are always welcoming and caring no matter how the day might start and I leave feeling he will have the best day ahead. When I pick up,
no matter what time, the joy I see on his face is always one of a fulfilling day and he is bursting to tell me what he has got up to and the adventures he has had, Forest school is a new favourite topic! Feedback from staff is always detailed and descriptive to the point we come away with a feeling that I was there. Truly great place, I am always amazed at the ongoing changes and experiences the manager, owner and management team create in the grounds for him to explore. Wish every success to all at the nursery.

Reply from Stewart Hendry, Owner at Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School

Thank you. Forest School is proving very popular with our pre-school.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Ridgemount Nursery has been amazing for my daughter since she started 18 months ago. We visited a number of nurseries and this one seemed the best by far! The atmosphere there is caring and she has shown such progression since being there. The staff are fantastic and helpful and always willing to help
and support the children there. Putting my daughter here was the best decision. The children are encouraged to be outside with chickens and nature, keeping them away from screens which is great. They are allowed to grow and learn in this environment, it's a wonderful nursery.

Reply from Stewart Hendry, Owner at Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School

Thank you so much. We are glad our chickens are so loved.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 1.0 out of 5

My son was signed out of the nursery setting on the app 2 hours before he is normally picked up, they lied about the circumstances.
We had issues with invoices (out by around £600). I was met with a rude and aggressive tone, along with why would I think they have time to deal with this? And that they
have told me they will look at it.
A key worker informed me that the owner can get frustrated when he's busy, and that you just have to know him to know that as he's not trying to be rude, he just struggles with that. Need I say more?
They are trying to have the numbers on the nominal roll increased from 76 to 120. Such a jump in numbers is likely to only contribute in the amount of accidents that happen.
Should you ever have an issue that requires input from management, expect to be met with dismissiveness, rudeness and arrogance. Note how there were no reviews about Ridgemount since October. I then write a 1* review and all the staff come on and leave 5* reviews to try and bump their numbers back up.

Reply from Stewart Hendry, Owner at Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School

Due to the rude nature of your interactions, we had to terminate your contract with us. This decision was regrettable, especially as your husband expressed desire to stay and your children clearly enjoyed their time here. While we appreciate your feedback, I'd like to clarify some points:1.The signout concern was addressed immediately, once you reported it the next day. Children self-register but we maintain a paper copy for safety. If worried we encourage immediate communication.2.A system error undercharged you by 600. We apologised, offered 500 goodwill and explained it was complex to resolve. Despite this, we received calls/emails at all times.3.The statement you attributed to a key worker was not made; she is distressed by this.4.As a larger setting, we provide unique experiences eg. Forest School, allotment and yoga. In your final week, your family enjoyed reindeer, Santa and a Christmas concert.5.All reviews on Daynurseries.co.uk are verified.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I really feel that a place for your child at Ridgemount Cottage Nursery is an opportunity you shouldn't pass up. They provide such a rich learning environment for the children with their large outdoor play areas where chickens are raised and food is grown, not to mention their children's yoga and mindfulness
sessions which my son really loves.
And I speak of every single member of staff when I say that it is clear that the job is not just a job but a calling to them. They really enjoy working with your children and know them really well as individuals. Whenever I read a report they wrote about my son I felt that I couldn't have said it better so they certainly are paying attention. The lunches are great too, nice and healthy.

Reply from Stewart Hendry, Owner at Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School

Thank you for this lovely review! Our team really does put their all in each day, so it's always great when this is seen and appreciated.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Our child has been nurtured and cared for. Since she joined as a toddler she has thoroughly enjoyed her days at Ridgemount. They have helped her to develop into a kind and happy girl with an inquisitive mind. As a parent I have felt throughout that she has been well cared for, always being given new
ways to explore the world. Our daughter is now leaving to attend primary school.

Reply from Stewart Hendry, Owner at Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School

Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review. We are so pleased you chose us for this stage in your daughter's journey.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My daughter has just graduated from Pre-School at Ridgemount. She has been with them since she was 11 months old. Starting in COVID times when I felt unsure of everything including worrying about her lack of socialisation. All staff that have worked with her have helped her settle, have encouraged her,
have celebrated her, have supported her and supported us as a family. They truly are like an extended family. The outdoor space is fantastic and is utilised by all groups. They spend as much time as they can outside. Their activities have been based around popular stories which has been a great way at encouraging reading and interest in books. We've thoroughly enjoyed our daughter's time here and will be sorry to say goodbye.

Reply from Stewart Hendry, Owner at Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School

Thank you for taking time to review us! Our team really appreciate these kind words.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Amazing place with amazing staff. My daughter spent three and a half years in this nursery. Staff's input, time and activities developed her skills over the years. It's not just a place where the child is looked after but a place where the child feels included, involved and mostly loved. I have nothing
but respect and gratitude for all at the nursery, including management.

Reply from Stewart Hendry, Owner at Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School

Thank you for reviewing us! We are so pleased that you had such a good time here!


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Literally the best setting I could have chosen for my daughter. The staff are amazing and the environment for the children is outstanding, my daughter has thrived since attending. I would highly recommend it.

Reply from Stewart Hendry, Owner at Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School

Thank you for leaving us a review! It is lovely to hear such great things about our hardworking team!


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We have been continuous customers of Ridgemount for 5 years since our eldest started there at 18 months. Our youngest is about to leave for school.
Throughout our time there our kids have loved the warm and welcoming environment and have been very well cared for by the staff. We have been delighted
to be customers of Ridgemount and will miss the staff and owners of the establishment. We have been fans of the family-run atmosphere and we can really see the passion the family have for the business and children.
The facilities are good with large outdoor spaces. The food is varied and good quality. There is a frequently changing curriculum. The management are often very flexible to offer us extra sessions if we need them which is so helpful.
In particular, the nursery coped well with the difficulties of COVID and continued to provide a high-quality service during unprecedented challenges.
I'd enthusiastically recommend the owner and his team to anyone. Thank you.

Reply from Stewart Hendry, Owner at Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School

Thank you for leaving us a review! We are so glad you've enjoyed your time with us.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My daughter has been at Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School since she was 10 months old and will be there until she starts school this September.
Our experience has been, overall, very good. Staff are lovely and are very caring and good teachers.
The added benefits of the setting are the forest school
and yoga.
It is also a lovely community setting with events which helps parents get to know each other.

Reply from Stewart Hendry, Owner at Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School

Thank you for leaving us a review! We are so glad you've had a positive experience with us.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

This nursery is amazing. Staff know the names of every child, whether they are in the class or not! They really do care about every child. My son loves it there and always asks to go on his days off. Never a day they don’t make it into their wonderful garden either. Thank you to all the team. You are
fab!

Reply from Stewart Hendry, Owner at Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School

Thank you so much for leaving us such a lovely review!


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My son started Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School when he was 3, so February 2023. It was a very nerve-racking time for him and myself. On the initial viewing day, we were both made to feel very welcome and my son was made to feel part of the nursery straight away, even before registering. Staff let
him join in with games with children and have a snack with the children all whilst I was just viewing the nursery. After signing up and starting for the first time, my son struggled to settle and I found it very hard to leave him but the staff were so friendly and understanding and kept me up to date throughout the morning by sending me photos and messages, showing me that my son was ok. They allowed my son to bring a comforter into nursery with him until he became settled and worked with me to take it away slowly. They went at my son's pace. My son now goes three times a week and the growth I have seen in him, personality-wise and knowledge-wise, is fantastic, he’s grown in so much confidence and it’s lovely.

Reply from Stewart Hendry, Owner at Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School

Thank you for leaving us a review! It is lovely for our team to hear first hand how their efforts pay off.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Our daughter started at Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School over a year ago and she has never had an unhappy experience there. The staff and management are all friendly and caring and always greet you with a smile. The outdoor space is second to none and the amount of time spent outside is the main reason
why our daughter loves nursery so much. Not only does she have fun but she is learning at the same time. Thank you for everything you do.

Reply from Stewart Hendry, Owner at Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School

Thank you so much for leaving us a review. We are so pleased to hear that your daughter is having so much fun with us!


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I cannot speak highly enough about Ridgemount Nursery! The staff at the nursery are exceptional, as they are genuinely caring and nurturing. They have created a warm and loving environment that has helped my son thrive and grow. The meals provided at the nursery are fantastic! I know that my son is
receiving nutritious, well-balanced meals. I do believe they go above and beyond to ensure that the children are well-fed and enjoy their meals.
One of the things I love most is the emphasis on outdoor activities. Even having chickens and a full garden for planting vegetables is amazing for the kids. The nursery encourages physical activity and exploration, which I think is essential for a child's development. The best bit is they go out in all weather!
I wholeheartedly recommend this nursery to any parent. The staff, meals, and outdoor activities are all top-notch, and I couldn't be happier with my son's experiences there. Thank you to the entire team!

Reply from Stewart Hendry, Owner at Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School

Thank you for this lovely review! It is great for our Team to know that our families appreciate all of their hard work.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

This is the first setting my daughter has attended and we loved it from the first second of our walk around. They have so much in place for the children to learn and engage with each other and staff. The staff have always been so friendly and welcoming, especially on days when my daughter needed extra
support. My daughter has learnt so much and made lots of friends and become even more independent through her journey at Ridgemount. A massive thank you to the team.

Reply from Stewart Hendry, Owner at Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School

Thanks so much for taking the time to leave us a review!


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Our 2-year-old has been with Ridgemount since around October 2023 and we can’t be happier with the team. They have been more than nurturing with her development and the whole layout of the day is perfect for her. Nature-orientated and great for development.

Reply from Stewart Hendry, Owner at Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School

Thank you for this kind review! We are continuing to improve our outside space, so it's great to hear that your little one is enjoying it.


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Current Review Score: 9.6 (9.579)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.6 (9.579) out of 10 for Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  • a) The Average Rating is 4.8 out of 5 from 20 Reviews in the last 24 months.

  • b) The score for the number of positive Reviews is 4.8 out of 5 from 19 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:

  • a) 5 Points are available for the Average Rating from all Reviews in the last 24 months.

    The Average Rating of 4.787 for Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School is calculated as follows: ( (224 Excellents x 5) + (3 Goods x 4) + (12 Very Poors x 1) ) ÷ 239 Ratings = 4.787

  • b) 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 4.792 Points relating to the number of positive Reviews for Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School is based on 19 positive Reviews in the last 24 months and is calculated as per below:

    The 5 points available are broken down as follows:

    • i) 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

    • ii) 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 120 number of registered child places is 24. 19 Positive Reviews ÷ 24 = 0.792

  • When a Review is submitted by someone who has previously submitted a Review, only the latest Review will count towards the Review Score.

  • 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

Awards / Recognitions (0)

There are currently no awards/recognitions posted yet for Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School

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Meet the Team (4)

Caron

Caron

Job Title: Manager

Joined: 2008

Hello, I'm Caron and I am the Manager here at Ridgemount Cottage Nursery. Having achieved my Level 3 in Early Years Education, I have been part of the Ridgemount family for over 16 years.


As well as Managing the Nursery, I am the Forest School Leader here. I love encouraging the children's natural awe and wonder and watching them take such joy in the world around them.


The best thing about being the Manager here is that I am lucky enough to get to know every child and their family and see as they progress into confident people, ready for school. I look forward to welcoming you and your child into the Ridgemount Community too!


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Sharon

Job Title: Head of Lower School

Joined: 2022

Hello, I'm Sharon. I am the Head of the Baby Unit here at Ridgemount. I have a Level 3 in Early Years Education and I came to Ridgemount in 2022.


With my own grandchild at Ridgemount, I know choosing a place for your child can be nerve-racking. But here, we make sure to provide a safe, calm environment for our little ones, with small, nurturing groups and stimulating sensory activities.


Lucia

Lucia

Job Title: Head of Middle School

Joined: 2006

Hello, I'm Lucia and I'm the Head of Ridgemount's toddler unit. I am a qualified teacher and I have been here at Ridgemount for almost 20 years.


Ridgemount really encourages children to learn through play, to be independent and to care about their friends and the world around them. I love being part of each child's journey here.


Jackie

Jackie

Job Title: Head of Upper School

Joined: 2019

Hi, i'm Jackie. I lead the unit for the older children as they prepare for starting school. I have a Level 3 in Early Years Education and have been at Ridgemount for 5 years.


Being part of the pre-school Team is really rewarding, and lots of fun. The children love exploring our outdoor spaces, but our time set aside for yoga and calming breathing is really beneficial too. Saying goodbye to the cohorts as they head off to school is always bitter-sweet. I'm so glad I get to help them on their way.


Frequently Asked Questions about Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School

What is the Age Range of Children that Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School accepts?

Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School accepts Children aged from 0 years 9 months to 4 years 11 months.

What Days & Hours is Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School Open?

Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School is open: Monday 07:30-18:00, Tuesday 07:30-18:00, Wednesday 07:30-18:00, Thursday 07:30-18:00, Friday 07:30-18:00.

How many Children does Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School have capacity for?

Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School has capacity for a total of 120 Children.

How far is Ridgemount Cottage Nursery School to the centre of Gloucester?

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