Engaging Students and Teachers using Chess

​Originally published on 3 January, 2021

Last year, 2020, Nimble Minds Chess had a productive year delivering online chess classes and training. During that time the following chess related programmes were delivered:

1. Introduction to Beginner's Chess for Teachers - This pilot programme was organised and funded by The Bahamas Chess Federation during the first lock down imposed in The Bahamas pursuant to its Emergency Orders. Topics to be covered included the benefits of learning chess, and introductory chess topics (e.g. the chessboard, pieces and pawns, castling, checkmate, draw and opening principles);

2. Introduction to Beginner's Chess for Teachers Continued - Additional classes were needed to supplement the initial pilot programme and to introduce essentials of starting chess clubs and organising chess play. These supplemental classes were organised by Nimble Minds Chess and substantially funded by Penelope Nottage;

3. Building Capacity for Teachers in support of establishing Chess Clubs - This programme was a follow-up to the Introductory Classes and focused on Administration of Chess Clubs, Organisation of chess play and club activities and chess training resources. This course was organised and funded by The Bahamas Chess Federation and delivered by Nimble Minds Chess; and

4. Individual Chess Instruction for School-age student players - Nimble Minds Chess offered additional virtual chess classes during the new school year in 2020. Its students ranged from ages 7 to 16, and from absolute beginners to tournament players. Besides an end of term virtual chess play event Nimble Minds Chess organised a Virtual Chess Simultaneous which was hosted by NM Kendrick Knowles, current Bahamas National Chess Champion.

During the remainder of this school year, we encourage parents to consider enrolling their children in our online chess classes which guarantees social distance and keeping them engaged. As the COVID-19 vaccine become available and more face to face activities return to our daily lives, we recommend that parents, coaches and chess club organisers read FIDE's Protocol for upcoming over-the-board events.

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