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When searching for the right nursery in Rickmansworth, parents often look for a place where their child will be happy, safe, and nurtured. At RMS, we believe the best Early Years education should offer something more: a seamless, stress-free journey from those first nursery steps into a confident start in Reception.
The transition from our nursery, Ruspini House, into our Prep School, Cadogan House, is specifically designed to remove “big school” anxiety for both children and parents alike.
“We know that the children that start with us from two make the most progress in terms of their learning and also their personal, social, and emotional development.” — Vicky Greig, Head of Ruspini House
Mrs Vicky Greig, Head of Ruspini House
A Familiar Path: Transitioning to Reception at RMS
For many families exploring pre-schools in Hertfordshire, the 4+ transition can be a period of high pressure. At RMS, we do things differently.
Because Ruspini House is situated within our stunning 300-acre estate, our nursery pupils don’t just “move” to Cadogan House; they grow into it. As Mrs. Melanie Horn, Head of Cadogan House, explains:
“Our early years curriculum is all about knowing your child as an individual. By having small classes and getting to know their strengths early on, we provide a nurturing environment that feels like a continuation of home.”
The Ruspini and Cadogan teams work in close partnership to ensure the transition is effortless. From joint lunchtimes between Nursery and Reception pupils to shared story-time sessions, these popular events allow the children to build confidence in their new surroundings long before their first day of school.
Why Local Parents Choose Ruspini House Nursery and Cadogan House Prep School
Choosing a local nursery in Rickmansworth with an integrated prep school offers several distinct benefits for busy families:
- No 4+ Assessment Stress: Pupils at Ruspini House are offered a guaranteed place in our Reception (Cadogan House) without the need for formal external assessments.
- Specialist Teaching from Age 2: Our pupils benefit from the world-class facilities of a top-tier independent school, including Forest School, swimming in our on-site pool, gymnastics, and Spanish.
- Building Resilience: Mrs. Claire Baker, Early Years Lead, notes:
“If you get children loving learning right at the beginning, you’ve got them. You have resilient children who are able to persevere and take risks.”
Read what our current parents have to say about Ruspini House.
Expert Care and Wrap-Around Support
We understand that for parents in the Hertfordshire commuter belt, flexibility and community are key. Our transition process isn’t just academic; it’s about the support network.
In the video below, Mrs. Bains, an RMS parent, describes the experience as “a level above everywhere else,” citing the comfort and confidence her daughter felt while moving through the school.
From the familiar faces of specialist teachers to shared playtimes between the nursery and prep school, we ensure that by the time “Big School” arrives, it feels like the most natural step in the world.
Supporting Both Pupils and Parents
We know that forming strong, trusting relationships with parents is essential. We work hard to ensure you feel just as confident as your child during the transition to Reception. Whether it’s helping with practical steps, like sourcing new uniforms, or navigating new routines and supporting families through the emotional milestone of “big change,” we are with you every step of the way.
Visit Us in 2026
The best way to understand the “RMS difference” is to see it in action. If you are starting the journey of choosing a nursery in Rickmansworth, or looking for a Hertfordshire prep school that prioritises both academic growth and emotional wellbeing, we invite you to visit us.