The world of chess education is about to get a whole lot more exciting, and the International Chess Federation (FIDE) is at the forefront of this development. With the announcement of its summer 2026 courses, FIDE's Chess in Education Commission is not just offering training; it's empowering educators to become leaders in the field. But what makes these courses truly remarkable is the comprehensive support they provide, going beyond traditional training to offer lifelong benefits that can revolutionize how chess is taught globally.
A Step Towards Global Chess Education
FIDE's Chess in Education Commission has been working tirelessly to promote chess as an educational tool, and these summer courses are a testament to their commitment. The Preparation of Lecturers (PoL) course, which leads to the prestigious FIDE title of Lead School Instructor (LSI), is designed to train those who will, in turn, train teachers. This creates a ripple effect, expanding the global community of educators capable of teaching chess in an educationally sound manner. By focusing on those who will train teachers, FIDE is ensuring a sustainable and scalable impact on chess education worldwide.
Empowering Teachers with Practical Skills
The Preparation of Teachers (PoT) course is a 3-day intensive training program that equips participants with the pedagogical methods, digital tools, and practical strategies needed to teach chess effectively. This course is not just about teaching the game; it's about teaching chess as an educational tool. Participants will learn how to integrate chess into various subjects, making it a valuable learning experience for students. The 15-hour program is designed to be both comprehensive and practical, ensuring that teachers are equipped to make a real difference in the classroom.
Lifelong Benefits for Continuous Growth
One of the most exciting aspects of these courses is the lifelong benefits that participants will receive upon completion. Access to the Opening Master Premium chess database, with over 10 million official over-the-board human games, is a treasure trove for any chess educator. The Chesspertise Platform, integrating database search, analysis, training, and coaching tools, is a unified environment that can enhance teaching and learning. And the FIDE Teachers Chess Curriculum is a valuable lifelong teaching resource that will support and enhance the work of chess educators.
A Call to Action for Chess Educators
These courses are not just about acquiring new skills; they are about empowering educators to make a real difference in the world of chess education. By participating in these programs, educators can become leaders in the field, capable of training and inspiring the next generation of chess players. The lifelong benefits are a testament to FIDE's commitment to supporting educators long after the courses have ended. So, if you're a chess educator looking to take your skills to the next level, these courses are a must-attend. They offer not just training, but a pathway to becoming a leader in the global chess education community.
In my opinion, these courses represent a significant step forward in the promotion of chess as an educational tool. By empowering educators with the skills and resources they need to succeed, FIDE is not just teaching chess; it's teaching a skill that can open doors to a world of opportunities. So, what are you waiting for? Sign up for these courses and become a part of this exciting movement in chess education.
