Ofsted 'deep dives': maths

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

Last reviewed on 28 February 2023
School types: All · School phases: All
Ref: 38804
Contents
  1. Will Ofsted do a maths deep dive?
  2. How 'deep dives' work
  3. Questions Ofsted might ask during a maths 'deep dive'
  4. How to prepare

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.

See paragraph 215 to 217 of the School Inspection Handbook for more details.

Ofsted has emphasised that it does not make judgements on specific subjects, lessons or teachers. Its inspectors use deep dives to help them arrive at an overall 'quality of education' judgement.

Will Ofsted do a maths deep dive?

In primary schools Ofsted will: 

  • Often do a deep dive in maths
  • Always do a deep dive in:
    • Reading
    • 1 or more foundation subjects

In secondary schools, Ofsted will usually focus on a sample of 4 to 6 subjects. Maths could be one of these subjects.

See paragraph 216 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.