To celebrate International Chess Day this year, we reflect on the success of our International Learning Opportunities for Students (ILOS) Chess Masters programme and the accomplishments of our students.
Founded in 1924 by the International Chess Federation and celebrated annually, this special day marks the impact that chess has on the world. As many people know, chess is far more than just a game; it’s a mental gymnasium that develops critical life skills.
By engaging in strategic planning, problem-solving, and decision-making, ISP students develop a sharp mind and a resilient spirit that prepares them for their future.
ISP Chess Masters Tournament
The ISP Chess Masters Tournament is a platform that brings together ISP students from all over the world to compete in chess playing. By partnering with globally renowned online chess platform Chesskid, students who participate in the tournament are able to develop their chess skills and teamwork while also connecting them with other students from different cultures.
By participating in the ISP Chess Masters Tournament, students not only advance their chess knowledge but also arm themselves with a robust skill set that benefits their academic, personal, and future endeavours.
“This program has helped me sharpen and develop new skills, it has also helped me connect with people from other schools and build up my self-confidence.” a Student at Rowntree Montessori, Canada.
In this 2023/24 school year, over 2,700 students from around the world participated in one of our five categories:
- School division
- Regional division
- Amazing Learning
- Puzzle Master
- Lesson Master
Students aged 8-15 took part in online and in person events at junior or senior levels playing Swiss style chess. A type of fast chess-play where students are re-paired in each round to play against opponents with a similar score, keeping the competition balanced and intriguing.
As recognition for their excellent performance, the winners of each category were awarded sessions with a chess master. A unique opportunity for students to get inspired, analyse plays, and even play against a chess master.
This year’s winners
Congratulations to all our 2023-2024 ISP Chess Masters Tournament winners, we are proud of your achievements and hope you go on to further develop your skills and compete in more tournaments.
This year’s winners were:
School Junior
- 1st place: Tenby Schools Setia Eco Park
- 2nd place: El Altillo International School
- 3rd place: ITJ Queretaro
School Senior
- 1st place: Tenby Schools Setia Eco Park
- 2nd place: El Altillo International School
- 3rd place: Manthan International School
Regional Junior
- 1st place: Iberia
- 2nd place: Southeast Asia
- 3rd place: Europe and Middle East
Regional Senior
- 1st place: Southeast Asia
- 2nd place: South America, US, and Canada
- 3rd place: Iberia
Amazing Learning
- Junior: Park House
- Senior: Colegio Terranova
Puzzle Master
- Junior: ITJ Santa Monica
- Senior: British School of Vila-real
Lesson Master
- Junior: ITJ Queretaro
- Senior: Lynn Rose
The ISP Chess programme is an excellent platform for students to advance their chess skills, with the benefits going further than the chessboard. Beyond intellectual growth, chess helps develop essential personal qualities. Resilience is built as players learn to overcome setbacks, while sportsmanship and patience are cultivated through fair play and calculated moves. The confidence gained from victories and the ability to analyse complex situations under pressure equips players with invaluable tools for success in various life arenas.
“When I joined the chess club, I never imagined I’d be here, holding the regional champion title. Chess taught me patience and the importance of strategy, not just on the board but in life. Each game is a new challenge, and every opponent is a new teacher.” – Student at Tenby Schools Setia Eco Gardens, Malaysia
We look forward to seeing current students grow their skills even further at the next Chess Masters Tournament and hope to have inspired new students to join too.
If you’re a prospective ISP student and would like to know more about our ILOS programmes, please click here
If you’re a current ISP student and would like to join our Chess Masters programme, please contact your school for more information.
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