School Secretary

Rydes Hill Preparatory School and Nursery – “The best start in life”.

Rydes Hill is a warm and friendly, non-selective Independent Catholic School which welcomes all denominations, boys from 3-7 years and girls from 3-11 years. Rydes Hill has a single stream entry with around 200 pupils from Nursery (age 3) to Year 6. The School is located in an idyllic setting on the outskirts of Guildford with an architecturally fine Georgian building.

The School was founded in 1945 by the Daughters of Mary and Joseph. In 1989 the ownership was transferred to a Charitable Trust, which was established by parents at the time specifically for the purpose of continuing the excellent work of the Foundation Order.

The School has a highly supportive Governing Body and an enthusiastic and talented staff team with very low staff turnover. The School is noted for its happy family atmosphere and encourages and values its partnership with parents. There is a thriving Parents’ Association which organises a number of social and fundraising events throughout the year, fostering a strong sense of community within the School.

The School’s record in placing girls in prestigious Senior Schools in the country is well-established. This year’s Year 6 of 22 girls gained 12 scholarships to Senior Schools. 

The last Inspection Report rated the School excellent in every category. The current Head is retiring after 12 very happy years at Rydes Hill.