Somerset Primary is progressing towards gaining an international recognition for its chess programme.

The recognition by the Chess in Education Commission, governed by the International Chess Federation, marks a significant milestone in the school’s efforts to use chess as a tool to support student learning, wellbeing and character development.

Launched in March 2025, the programme operates in partnership with the Bermuda Chess Association and the Department of Education with the goal of aligning with international best practices and structured instruction standards.

Educators Sophie Burch and Kelly Massa, who have completed formal training through the federation, are leading the programme. They earned school lead instructor certifications after attending a three-day seminar and two-day advanced course.

Ms Massa said: “The chess programme is helping students to become strategic thinkers, sustain focus and develop strong sportsmanship skills.”

The school’s leadership has also observed broader impacts. O'Brien Osborne, the school’s principal, added: “Chess is strengthening students’ working memory in ways that reach far beyond the chess board and over time, we hope this will translate into improved academic performance.

“The chess room itself has become a safe haven for children who find social interactions challenging, an impact we are now seeing reflected in more confident and positive play on the playground.”

Chess has been intentionally integrated into Somerset Primary’s Guidance and Counselling programme. It is said to help reinforce skills such as critical thinking, emotional regulation, ethical decision-making, resilience and respectful competition.

Students also participated in structured instruction and practice during the school’s weekly Hornet’s Nest clubs, which is part of the school’s broader commitment to holistic development.

The school said the programme has already demonstrated measurable impact and that all participating students sustained focus throughout their matches, demonstrating “respect in both victory and defeat”.

Following a recent tournament, 26 students were surveyed about their experience at the event.

All students in the survey reported having fun and reflected positively, citing strategy, concentration, fairness and the quiet focus required during play.

The school has also celebrated competitive achievements.

Primary 4 students Gabriella Cann and Chivya Konaru represented Somerset Primary at the Checkmate Betul Girls’ Tournament on December 1, 2025. Gabriella earned a third-place finish.

Congratulations were also extended to Noah Pedro [P5], Antonia Walker [P4], and Nesta Woods [P5], who each won all three matches in the Term One Intramural Chess Competition, and to Gilbert Richards House, the overall house winners.

Crystal Caesar, the Minister of Education, paid a visit to the chess programme and noted the high level of enthusiasm and engagement demonstrated by participating students.

She said: “It is truly inspiring to witness the level of focus, excitement and genuine enjoyment our students bring to the game of chess.

“Beyond the board, there is observed meaningful growth in essential life skills such as discipline, sportsmanship and a strong sense of camaraderie.

“These are qualities that are clearly carrying over into students’ everyday interactions, how they support one another, how they manage challenges and how they show respect in all aspects of school life.

“This is the kind of holistic development we strive to cultivate across our education system.”

As Somerset Primary continues its journey towards official Chess in Education Commission recognition, the school said it remained committed to nurturing confident thinkers, resilient learners and respectful competitors — “one move at a time”.