Checkmate! RGS Worcester Inspires with Chess Masterclass

RGS Worcester had the pleasure of welcoming 84 Year Five pupils from RGS The Grange for an engaging Chess Masterclass (and a delicious lunch) on Monday. The aim of the event was to spark interest in the game and help pupils develop a better understanding of Chess. The session was led by Head of Higher Education, Mr Tim Hallett, an experienced Chess instructor who guided the Year Five pupils through the intricacies of the game.

The day began with lunch served in Cobham Hall. After refuelling, the pupils had a run around in Cobham Hall to let off some steam and prepare themselves for an afternoon of mental challenges.

The Chess masterclass started with a 45-minute introduction to chess, during which the pupils familiarised themselves with the basic concepts and strategies of the game. Mr Hallett’s expertise and engaging teaching style made the learning experience both fun and educational.

The pupils were then divided into teams of four, each team including a pupil with previous chess experience. These experienced players had either participated in the Chess Club at RGS The Grange, led by Head of Design and Technology, Mrs Anna Pitt, or had practised playing Chess at home. This arrangement ensured a mix of skill levels within each team and encouraged mentorship and collaboration between the Year Five pupils.

The objective was for each team to defeat their opponents in the room, and the winning team would face the second-placed team to determine the overall champions. This format added excitement and healthy competition to the masterclass, encouraging the pupils’ enthusiasm for the game.

What was enjoyable to witness was the support and encouragement provided by the more experienced players to their teammates. The pupils who already possessed a strong understanding of chess demonstrated their passion for the game by offering guidance and assistance to their less-experienced peers. This camaraderie showcased the inclusive and supportive atmosphere that The RGS Worcester Family of Schools fosters among its pupils.

It was clear that some of the more skilled players had a genuine passion for the game, and their enthusiasm was contagious. The hope is that their passion for Chess has spread to their fellow Year Five classmates at RGS The Grange, inspiring them to explore and develop their own interest in the game.

Thanks must go to, Mrs Anna Pitt and Mr Tim Hallett for facilitating the Chess Masterclass. The event provided a valuable opportunity for pupils to expand their interests, teamwork and collaboration.