Ofsted 'deep dives': maths (primary)

Last reviewed on 8 March 2022
School types: All · School phases: All
Ref: 38804

Find out what evidence inspectors will look at during a maths 'deep dive', and what questions they might ask. Download our list of questions to help you prepare.

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Contents

  1. How 'deep dives' work
  2. Impact of COVID-19
  3. Questions Ofsted might ask during a maths 'deep dive'
  4. Every subject won't be the same

Ofsted inspectors use subject 'deep dives' to inspect your curriculum. 

They'll use them to consider the 'intent, implementation and impact' of your curriculum as part of the 'quality of education' judgement.

The transition arrangements Ofsted has set out for primary schools to develop their curriculum plans in line with the 'quality of education' judgement don't apply to maths. Maths, like reading and writing, is subject to the requirements set out in the 2019 framework.

See paragraph 230 of the School Inspection Handbook for more details.

How 'deep dives' work

Who's involved?

Your senior leadership team (SLT), curriculum leads, subject leads, teachers and pupils.

How will inspectors do this?

Conversations (see the list of questions in the section below) Work scrutinies (reviewing at least 6 workbooks or pieces

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Also in 'Inspection criteria'