A primary school where pupils learn to make sushi and visit museums, zoos and a working farm has been rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted.

Rhyl Community Primary School, which has sites in Rhyl Street, Kentish Town, and Grafton Road, Gospel Oak, received the education watchdog’s top rating across the board after an inspection on February 7 and 8.

The school has 421 pupils aged 2 to 11 and inspectors praised its leadership team, saying they have “high aspirations” for everyone and are “hugely committed” to the pupils and their families.

Their report cited “impressive provision”, including a ‘community kitchen’ where pupils learn about careers like being a sushi chef - and even get the chance to make sushi.

It said the school has a “clearly defined” view of what pupils should learn, breaking down its curriculum into a logical order, with pupils consolidating their knowledge before moving on to more complex ideas.

“Ambitious” core texts are foundation of this, ensuring each year group is exposed to a “broad and rich” range of literature.

The report added: “A well-stocked library and reading assemblies encourage pupils to read widely and often, developing their love for reading.”

Inspectors were also impressed by a “rich all-round school experience”.

They wrote: “Leaders provide a wide range of clubs as well as trips to museums, zoos, places of worship and galleries. Year 6 pupils enjoy a residential trip to a nature reserve and some pupils spend a week on a working farm.”

They also praised “excellent support and guidance” for disadvantaged pupils, including those with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND).

Executive headteacher Helen Connor said she was "delighted" with the “fantastic” report and "incredibly proud” of staff and pupils.

She added: "Personally, I'm particularly proud of the creative curriculum we have developed. Our children all have so many opportunities that stretch way beyond the core subjects.

"I like to think that our pupils leave the school with the highest aspirations for their future."

The inspection was Rhyl's first since 2013, when it was rated ‘good’, and also the first since it merged with Carlton Primary School in 2021.

Ms Connor added the final phase of building after the merger was due to be completed by the autumn, with the school also offering cost of living support, baby classes and computer classes for adults. 

She added: "Moving forwards I want to see Rhyl developing further as a real hub for our community and continuing to provide an exceptional education for every child in our school."