Three Schools Receive FIDE Accreditation

Purvis Primary, Francis Patton Primary, and Warwick Academy have been officially accredited as Chess Schools by the World Chess Federation [FIDE], marking a first for Bermuda.

A spokesperson said, “Throughout 2025, the Bermuda Chess Association [BCA], in partnership with the Department of Education and local Bermuda schools, has been actively working to introduce Chess in Education across the island. A significant milestone in this journey was achieved when 3 Bermuda schools received official recognition and accreditation as Chess Schools by the World Chess Federation [FIDE]. Purvis Primary and Francis Patton Primary received Bronze School Awards, while Warwick Academy achieved a Silver School Award, marking the first Bermuda-based schools to be officially recognized and accredited Chess Schools by FIDE.

“In March, Bermuda hosted a pivotal Chess in Education seminar led by FIDE’s Chairman of the Chess in Education Commission, Jerry Nash. This event helped establish 22 school instructors across 14 Bermuda schools, laying a strong foundation for integrating chess into the curriculum. Since then, five of these instructors have advanced to become Lead School Instructors [LSI] in July, empowering them to train other teachers on how to introduce and use chess within their classrooms.

“Many schools have since incorporated chess in various innovative ways—some through the school curriculum, others via after-school programs, and some utilizing chess as a therapeutic tool. For example:

• Several schools are using chess in play therapy to promote socialization and emotional development.

• Others are integrating it into math lessons to enhance numeracy skills.

• Some are leveraging chess in language settings to foster analysis, debate, and discussion.

• Many schools are establishing camaraderie and fun through after-school chess clubs and activities.”

A BCA spokesperson expressed pride in these accomplishments, stating, “This is a phenomenal milestone in Bermuda’s Chess in Education journey. It is a massive achievement to be recognized by the world governing body of chess as officially accredited institutions for their Chess in Education programs.”

The spokesperson said, “Additionally, the BCA has received a donation of 400 chess sets as part of the Gift of Chess initiative this month. This generous contribution will further support schools in their efforts to promote chess as an educational tool. The partnership between the BCA and the Department of Education remains strong, with continued efforts to expand and enhance the program.

“Looking ahead, the BCA already has several schools actively involved in the initiative, with plans for more to apply for accreditation by the end of 2025. The ongoing commitment to chess in education promises to foster critical skills and social development among Bermuda’s students.

“Congratulations to Purvis Primary, Francis Patton Primary, and Warwick Academy for this fantastic achievement—an inspiring step forward in Bermuda’s Chess in Education journey.”