Promoting Chess in Schools

The Wolverhampton Chess League is doing its bit to support a national initiative to foster the spread of chess in schools.

Schools within 20 miles of Wolverhampton were invited to submit applications for funds, from which it became clear that a number of schools believe that chess is helping to improve concentration, behaviour, spatial awareness and sportsmanship.

Over £400 was spent by the League on the provision of sets and vinyl boards to four schools. Publicity officer David Short also contacted the national Chess in Schools charity who have also provided equipment for schools that we were unable to help.

“There has been a lot of research in other countries which has pointed to the success of chess in improving academic ability and in some countries chess has a part in the curriculum.It’s encouraging to see some local schools sharing the same beliefs” said David.

The successful schools were the John Weeldon Primary Academy and Stafford Manor High School, both in Stafford, Marshbrook First School in Penkridge and St Nicholas CE First School in Codsall.

The League’s initiative was also open to new community chess clubs. This produced just one application from the new Norton Canes Chess Club which was awarded two chess clocks, bringing the total spend to just over £500.

David Short Publicity Officer 20/3/17