Rockwood Nursery School

Business Details

Trusted Child Care & Preschool Programs in Rockwood, ON

Rockwood Nursery School has been a cornerstone of early childhood education in our community for over five decades. As a non-profit cooperative, we prioritize parental involvement and maintain a collaborative approach to nurturing young minds. Our team of certified Early Childhood Educators and Montessori-trained professionals deliver high-quality programming in a spacious, welcoming environment designed to foster independence, creativity, and social development. With programs tailored for children aged 18 months to 4 years, we emphasize trust-building, cooperative learning, and foundational educational skills. Our structured curriculum includes circle time, creative activities, and physical play, all supported by a dedicated parent-led governance model.

Through regular family events and community engagement, we create lasting connections that ease transitions to formal schooling. Parents consistently praise our warm atmosphere, qualified staff, and the lifelong friendships formed within our programs. Our 35-year veteran teacher Nicki Barens, alongside experienced educators Victoria Caulfeild and Krista Denny, exemplify our commitment to excellence. Celebrating 50+ years of service, we remain dedicated to providing accessible, high-quality early education that prepares children for future academic success while maintaining affordable tuition through our cooperative model.

Services

Preschool Classes Toddler Programs Parental Involvement Family Events Community Outreach

Highlights and features

Certified ECE teachers with 15-35 years of experience in early childhood education
Montessori-trained staff implementing proven educational methodologies
Parent cooperative model maintaining low tuition fees through community involvement
Structured curriculum combining creative play with foundational learning skills
Proven track record preparing children for successful elementary school transitions

What people say

Nurturing and caring environment Qualified teachers Smooth transition to school Great programming Made feel special

Website

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Services

Preschool Classes

Structured preschool programs for 3-year-olds featuring certified ECE teachers, daily learning centers, and themed activities. Focus on social development, creative expression, and foundational academic skills through play-based learning in a spacious, safe environment.

Toddler Programs

Specialized toddler classes for 18-36 month-olds with diaper-friendly facilities and dedicated assistants. Combines structured routines with free play, sensory activities, and early socialization in a secure, stimulating environment designed for young learners.

Parental Involvement

Cooperative model requiring parent participation through committees and board positions. Builds community connections while maintaining affordable tuition rates. Includes volunteer opportunities, governance roles, and collaborative decision-making processes involving parents and educators.

Family Events

Regular family-friendly events including field trips and seasonal celebrations. Designed to strengthen community bonds and create shared experiences. Events incorporate educational elements while fostering social connections between families and staff.

Community Outreach

Community-focused initiatives connecting preschool families with local resources and activities. Includes intergenerational programs, local charity involvement, and partnerships with Rockwood businesses to enhance educational experiences beyond classroom walls.

People

Nicki Barens

Teacher

35-year veteran educator known for patience and creativity. Skating enthusiast and community organizer who creates engaging learning experiences while maintaining strong family connections through annual events.

Victoria Caulfeild

Teacher

15-year experienced educator with meticulous organization skills. Develops personalized learning opportunities while maintaining a joyful classroom atmosphere. Active in local sports and community volunteer initiatives.

Krista Denny

Teacher

4-year teaching veteran combining passion for early education with practical experience. Creates imaginative play scenarios while maintaining strong parent communication through regular updates and classroom involvement opportunities.

Questions

What age requirements exist for enrollment?

We accept children aged 18 months to 4 years. Toddler program requires 18 months by September enrollment, preschool classes serve children turning 3 during the enrollment year.

How does the cooperative model work?

Parents volunteer through committees and board positions. This community involvement maintains low tuition fees while creating shared responsibility for program success through collaborative governance.

What qualifications do your teachers have?

All programs feature certified Early Childhood Educators with Montessori training. Our staff has 15-35 years of experience, combining formal education with practical classroom expertise.

Are there additional fees beyond tuition?

No hidden fees. Tuition covers all programming, materials, and activities. Optional donations may be requested for special events but are never mandatory.

How do you prepare children for elementary school?

Our structured curriculum develops social skills, independence, and foundational academic abilities through play-based learning. Graduates consistently demonstrate smooth transitions and strong performance in formal schooling environments.

What safety measures are in place?

Secure facility with controlled access during operating hours. All staff maintain current police background checks and first aid certifications. Regular safety drills ensure preparedness for various scenarios.

Reviews (5)

Write a Review

Jon Wu

Feb 12, 2019 Report

This is an amazing school. Nicki, Victoria and Patricia have been so supportive and caring for my son first couple years in school and prepared him for junior kindergarten. He’s excited to go every day and absolutely loves it. Thanks guys!

Rvpf

Dec 26, 2017 Report

Great teachers and a great school! All of our children went here and it prepared them for JK so well - I highly recommend it to others!

Meg A.

Oct 23, 2017 Report

Best nursery school around! Amazing teachers with excellent programs. Nursery school is very large bright and open. Highly recommend!

Natalie Tran

Mar 07, 2017 Report

Both my children have attended RNS and it was one of the best decisions I made for them. The teachers are hands down the best, they are truly loving and caring educators. The space is large and open. The kids are constantly engaged in something new. It is a wonderful environment to introduce your little one to a world outside of home and being the socialization process. I cannot say enough about RNS!

Melissa Makarewicz Brice

Nov 30, 2016 Report

LOVE LOVE LOVE! If you want your little one to be genuinely cared for in a gentle and nurturing environment then this is most certainly the place for you. I adore these teachers. My heart is settled knowing that my child is in their hands. I can't say enough good about Rockwood Nursery School!!