These are extracts of comments made by teaching staff on the Aberdeen Chess in Schools Project: -

 

“Provides a structured environment where the children can calmly learn logical and reasoning skills – for some of these children, who have little stability in their lives, the value of this cannot be underestimated” – SEN teacher

 

“Amazed at the progress children have made, children who do not always try in other subjects have worked hard” – P4 teacher

 

“At 2.15pm on a Thursday, the children are raring to go. It’s no exaggeration to say that this is the most popular day of the week in room 17” – P4 teacher

 

“This has been, and continues to be, a stimulating project” – P4 teacher

 

“Good for the self-esteem of those who struggle with aspects of class work” – P4 teacher

 

“Most children have increased their listening and thinking skills” – P4 teacher

 

“Kept their attention because content was challenging. Difficult children have settled down well” – P4 teacher

 

“Encourages thinking ahead. Children have enjoyed it enormously” – P4 teacher

 

“Normally excitable pupils can settle well in class” – Deputy Head

 

“This has been a highly successful addition to the school programme” – Deputy Head

 

“I regard chess as an integral part of the way this school functions. I would like the security of knowing that this is a long-term project” – Head Teacher.