Under the heading "Checkmate learning inequality in rural Denmark," the organization aims to strengthen learning opportunities for children and young people in some of the municipalities where significantly more students fail Danish and mathematics in their primary school leaving exams. The consequence is that a large group of children and young people lose faith in their own abilities – and risk being left behind both academically and socially.

Specifically, the funds will be used for learning programs at five schools. The programs will include 2-4 classes at each school and will reach at least 200 students.

"School chess strengthens the mind and fosters a sense of community. When children and young people experience success, their motivation and belief in their own abilities grow, which improves their chances of passing their final exams," says Mads Jacobsen, Secretary General of Dansk Skoleskak (Danish School Chess).

School chess is not just about pieces and moves. It's about shaking hands before and after the game. About showing respect. About immersing yourself. And about being part of a community where everyone can participate.

We work with a game-based learning program where students practice concentration, problem solving, and analytical thinking. At the same time, many schools experience fewer conflicts, more calm in the classroom, and stronger social bonds across student groups. Our experience is that children with school refusal, learning difficulties, and diagnoses such as ADHD and autism in particular benefit academically and socially from school chess because this form of teaching combines structure, immersion, and clear social rules, says Mads Jacobsen.

The Secretary General highlights school chess as a suitable tool because the game requires focus and perseverance. When students work in a structured and concentrated manner on the same task over a longer period of time, both their understanding of mathematics and their general learning are strengthened.

When playing school chess, it's all about making a plan and working systematically. You encounter mathematics in a new way – and it's done analogously. This is important in everyday life, where a large part of teaching otherwise takes place via a screen, says Mads Jacobsen, adding that Danish schools are among those in Europe with the most screen time during a school day.

So far, Dansk Skoleskak has visited schools in the municipalities of Frederikshavn, Sønderborg, and Ringkøbing-Skjern to introduce teachers and students to school chess as a learning tool.

"We have seen students who had difficulty getting involved, but who found it easier to engage with the task when they were sitting at the chessboard opposite another person," says Mads Jacobsen.

He hopes that the learning programs will inspire schools to introduce school chess as a natural part of teaching and encourage teachers and school administrators to continue working with the methods in their everyday work.

"I hope that we can help to inspire both students and teachers, so that school chess becomes a valuable supplement to traditional teaching," says Mads Jacobsen.

FACT:

Danish School Chess is a non-profit organization that helps children and young people succeed academically, socially, and mentally. Using school chess as an educational tool, the organization works to give all children—regardless of their circumstances—the opportunity to experience community and develop themselves.