What is a deep dive?
Ofsted inspections include a detailed analysis of specific subjects in a school, known as a ‘deep dive’. This is based on the most recent Ofsted framework and helps inspectors assess the provision of a broad and balanced curriculum, the quality of education provided to children, the progression and sequencing of learning, retention of prior knowledge and whether the curriculum is meeting its intended objectives.
Art and design is one of the subject areas that Ofsted can choose for a “deep dive”. The ultimate aim of a deep dive is to gather evidence that allows inspectors to form a fair evaluation of how education is flowing from its intended purpose to its successful implementation and eventual impact on pupils. To achieve this, inspectors scrutinise the flow of lessons and sequences of work. They check whether there is a clear progression of skills, observe lessons and review pupils’ work (in the case of Art and design, this may be scrutiny of practical work). Additionally, inspectors interview the Art and design subject lead to gather further insights.
Read moreHow will this document help me in an Art and design deep dive?
Of course, there is no knowing what questions Ofsted may ask during a deep dive. As well as interviewing the subject leader, they may hold interviews with staff members including curriculum leaders, pupils and the leadership team.
However, as an Art and design subject leader, you will most likely be interviewed to ascertain the effectiveness and relevance of your school’s Art and design offering.
As a subject leader, it’s important to have clear responsibilities and excellent subject knowledge. You should
- provide CPD opportunities
- review the effectiveness of the subject across the school
- ensure the Cambridge International curriculum is being covered and delivered according to the curriculum intent
- be an advocate for the subject
- effectively utilise the available resources.
The questions in this document are intended to help you prepare as best as possible for an upcoming deep dive. They are a selection of past deep dive questions gathered from our community, and are those that will help Ofsted assess the effectiveness of leadership, implementation and impact in Art and design.
