Year 7 students had the wonderful opportunity of experiencing and participating in the annual chess incursion on Tuesday, 27 February. Chess coaches Vanya, Vivienne, Nikayla and Denise from Dark Horse Chess, taught the girls how to play and some of the clever strategies of the game.
After the initial welcome and introduction of the coaches, each student was placed into a group based on her level of experience and expertise in playing chess. All levels of ability were represented, from absolute first-time beginners to advanced chess strategists. In their groups, the students worked with one of the four Dark Horse staff to learn more about the game, to become familiar with and practise the different moves of each chess piece and to apply some clever strategies when playing.
The Year 7s enjoyed the day immensely and after the sessions, many girls were able to say that they had learnt something new about how to play the game. Some of the attributes that learning chess helps to develop are:
Pattern visualization
Patience
Memory
Abstract reasoning
Originality and creativity
Awareness of the consequences of actions
Confidence and self esteem
Concentration and focus
Self discipline
Planning
Problem solving
Siena also offers students at each year level the opportunity to join the Chess Club, which meets every Wednesday at lunchtime in the Albertus Magnus Library. Chess Club members benefit from the support of Rose, a staff member of Dark Horse Chess. Rose attends each week during term time, coaching and encouraging the students to build upon and practise their skills, regardless of level. Those students who attend enjoy the opportunity to participate in chess tournaments at other schools which improves their chess skills.
