The Reader: Chess is a smart move with our schools closed

Chess players from France look at the board during a game at a hospital in Murmansk, Russia March 28, 2020
REUTERS
22 April 2020
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The lockdown and school closures will inevitably exacerbate educational inequality.

Chess in Schools and Communities, a charity, has taught over 100,000 children in the capital to play chess since 2010, using the game to impart learning objectives and as a tool to improve children’s confidence and enhance social mobility.

We have launched a campaign to get one million children playing chess online during lockdown.

We are offering every primary school a free Gold membership of ChessKid.com for all their pupils. The website assumes no prior knowledge, children learn through videos, lessons and puzzles and can play others from all over the world once they are proficient.

Parents may also have access for their children by applying at chessinschools.co.uk.

Let’s make Britain smarter during these difficult times.
Malcolm Pein, Chief Executive, Chess in Schools and Communities

Editor's reply

Dear Malcolm

I couldn’t agree more. Chess is a great way for children (and adults) to sharpen their minds, and the extra time at home that we’re having at the moment is the perfect opportunity to either learn the game or play more.

It’s brilliant that you’re helping through your new campaign and this generous offer to primary pupils. I hope as many as possible take it up and discover the joy of this fine game.
Martin Bentham, Home Affairs Editor

Heartfelt thank you for Hirst​

Once again, Damien Hirst — “Hirst’s heart of hope”, Evening Standard April 20 — deserves our gratitude. During the 2008 financial crash, he generously donated his Beautiful Love Demelza painting of butterflies, to the eponymously named children’s hospice raising £769,250.
Ronel Lehmann, chief executive, Finito Education Limited

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