Chess in Schools & Communities

General information

Chess in Schools and Communities' aim is to establish a chess club in every primary school in England and Wales. Research has shown that chess can benefit academic performance, encourage better behaviour and classroom engagement, improve self-esteem and of course it's a lot of fun. All schools in the public sector are eligible to join Urban Chess. Once accepted your school will be eligible for some or all of the benefits below:

Free weekly chess coaching by one of our professional chess coaches
Free chess sets and chess software
Access to our website and online chess materials
Opportunities to take part in inter-school competitions
An invitation to The London Chess Classic where there will be free coaching and activities and a chance to see the World Chess Champion play.
Simultaneous displays by our top players
Coaching material for teaching staff and priority places for them on our courses to become an Accredited CSC Chess Coach.

We strongly encourage schools wishing to become part of the scheme to incorporate chess lessons into curriculum time as this produces the best results. Importantly, teaching chess in curriculum time as opposed to during lunchtime or after school makes it much easier to find a coach in your area.