The European Chess Union has launched the ECU Chess in Education Partnership with National Chess Federations to help promote chess as an educational tool in schools and institutions across Europe and beyond, strengthening the connection amongst National Federations and the broader educational community.
ECU EDU’s goal is to increase the visibility of the National Chess in Education initiatives through our dedicated online platforms to create opportunities for knowledge sharing, networking and collaboration to inspire each other.
As part of this initiative, the ECU Chess in Education Ambassadors will play a key role in supporting the ECU Education Commission’s mission to promote Chess in Education (CiE), empowering chess educators and supporting CiE initiatives.
The ECU Chess in Education Partnership Agreement was signed with the Greek Chess Federation
Vera Avramidou, ECU Chess in Education Ambassador for Greece
Educator
International Arbiter
President of Olympiaki Galaxia Chess Club, Thessaloniki, Greece
President of the Education Commission of the Greek Chess Federation
Background in Chess and Education:
Vera Avramidou is a teacher of the Greek and English languages and holds a Master’s Degree in Multicultural Education and Inclusion of Vulnerable Groups in school. She is an active teacher at 80th Primary School of Thessaloniki and has worked for many years as a teacher in schools in Northern Greece and Piraeus, as well as Head of 5th Primary School of Naoussa.
Vera is a certified adult trainer, instructor at many seminars and conferences. Author of the book, Teachers’ intercultural competence and readiness: The case of Greek teachers detached abroad, and has published papers in several scientific journals.
In collaboration with the Greek Chess Federation, she is the co-writer of two educational chess programs, approved by the Institute of Educational Policy (IEP) of the Greek Ministry of Education, introducing chess in Primary School Skills Workshops. Among other trainers, she trained 100 teachers on two chess programs for the Primary School Skills Workshops, in co-operation with the Regional Director of Education. She is a Certified School Chess Teacher, a Certified Online Chess Arbiter by the European Chess Union (ECU), and an Accredited Arbiter for Blind Chess Players by the International Braille Chess Association (IBCA).
What inspired your involvement in Chess in Education?
What inspired my involvement in Chess in Education was seeing how powerful the game could be as a tool for developing essential life skills in children. During chess lessons, I noticed that students who struggled with focus in other subjects were suddenly patient, thoughtful, and strategic at the chessboard. They were learning critical thinking, patience, planning ahead, and resilience—all through the game!
I saw how chess could support subjects like math (patterns, logic, and spatial reasoning), literacy (describing moves and writing about strategies), and social-emotional learning (sportsmanship, decision-making, coping with loss). It was a way to open minds and build confidence. That experience inspired me to embed chess into my teaching approach. It’s not just about training future grandmasters—it’s about giving every child the mental tools they need to succeed in school and life.
Chess in Education in Your Country
| 1. Does your National Chess Federation have an active Education Commission? | Yes, and from December 2024, I was honoured to be elected as the President of the Commission. |
| 2. How is chess currently integrated into your country’s education system? | In 2014, the Greek Ministry of Education approved the inclusion of chess in the primary school curriculum. This move recognised the educational value of chess. Chess is now offered as part of school activities and sometimes within flexible subject areas, particularly in the first years of primary education. The Greek Chess Federation gained approval for chess teaching programs targeting kindergartens, primary, and lower secondary schools. These programs are officially recognised by the Institute of Educational Policy (IEP) of the Greek Ministry of Education, and teachers can voluntarily implement them in their schools. |
| 3. Is there government, institutional or National Chess Federation support for Chess in Education? | The Greek Chess Federation actively promotes chess in schools. While institutional and federation support is strong, greater formal recognition from the government could further strengthen the program, especially in terms of funding and official status. Chess is not officially recognised as a school sport. |
| 4. What age groups or school levels are most involved in chess activities in schools? | Kindergarten (Ages 4–6) Some programs supported by the Greek Chess Federation and approved by the Institute of Educational Policy have introduced chess concepts even at this early stage. Activities here are more play-based, using simplified chess pieces and storytelling to teach movement and spatial awareness. Primary School (Ages 6–12) This is the most active age group for chess in education. Chess is often introduced as part of the Primary School Skills Workshops of the curriculum or as an extracurricular activity. Many primary schools offer chess lessons during or after school hours. The focus at this level is on basic rules, logical thinking, and enjoyment of the game. Lower Secondary School / Gymnasium (Ages 12–15) Although less widespread than in primary schools, some gymnasiums include chess as part of clubs or school competitions. Students at this level may develop more advanced strategies and participate in local or national tournaments. |
| 5. Are there particular regions, schools or cities with standout CiE initiatives? | Greece has several standout cities and educational institutions that play a leading role in promoting Chess in Education through structured tournaments, school programs, and grassroots initiatives. Greece has developed a vibrant and pedagogically rich chess ecosystem. Combined with regional championships and university programs, these efforts demonstrate how chess has become a core educational tool in many parts of the country. Here are some key examples: |
Athens – National Technical University of Athens (NTUA), “Le Roi” Chess Club
The NTUA chess team “Le Roi” earned 1st place in Europe and 5th worldwide at the University Cup organized by the Kasparov Foundation, demonstrating the university’s high-level engagement in international chess.
Thessaloniki – Vassiliadis Schools
In Thessaloniki, Vassiliadis Schools consistently lead national rankings and achieved international success by winning 1st place in the U18 category at the 2023 FIDE-ISF World Online School Chess Championship. Chess is deeply embedded in their school culture, with a strong emphasis on the educational and cognitive benefits of the game.
Kavala
Kavala is one of the cities in Greece with the longest-standing and most active tradition in school chess. Many of its schools incorporate chess either into the regular curriculum or as part of extracurricular activities, systematically nurturing students’ thinking skills and creativity. From this thriving chess community emerged the World Girls’ Champion Stavroula Tsolakidou, who began her journey in local school tournaments.
Corfu – Island-Wide School Chess Championship
Corfu has hosted the largest and most inclusive school chess event ever held on the island. Spearheaded by the Corfu Chess Players’ Association with support from the Ionian Islands Regional Education Directorate, the event reaches nearly every school on the island through a phased competition model. Inspired by British school chess formats, it culminates in finals at the Corfu Municipal Theatre, supported by media coverage and the involvement of local grandmaster Spyros Skembris.
Thessaloniki–Chalkidiki – Student Chess Cup
The Student Cup of Thessaloniki–Chalkidiki (ESSTh-Ch) is one of the most structured and competitive school events in Northern Greece. It features strict qualification criteria from regional championships and includes multiple age categories from U8 to U18. Hosted over two days, the event uses both rapid and blitz round-robin formats.
Patras – Student-Family Chess Championship
Patras is home to one of the most unique chess events in Greece: the Student-Family Chess Championship. Each team consists of a student and a parent/guardian, promoting intergenerational bonding through chess. The tournament is organized by the Chess Department of ASP Promitheas and the Nautical Sports Union of Patras, using a 5-round Swiss system. The inclusive format and educational value make it a flagship CiE initiative in Western Greece.
Schools in many cities across Greece
Schools across Greece, in regions such as Crete (Chania and Heraklion), Athens, Thessaloniki, Korinthos, and beyond, are known for integrating chess into both public and private educational frameworks. This widespread approach ensures that children from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds have access to chess as an educational tool, fostering critical thinking, concentration, and creativity across the student population. Many of these schools also participate in European programs such as Erasmus+ and eTwinning, further enhancing the educational impact of chess through international collaboration and innovative pedagogical practices.
Regional and National Competitions
Attica, Thessaloniki, Crete and Corfu Student Chess Championships
Major annual events that attract hundreds of students. These tournaments not only highlight chess talent but also strengthen regional educational cooperation and student engagement.
Pan-Hellenic Student Chess Championships (often held in Athens)
A national celebration of school chess, gathering the best teams from across Greece and showcasing the country’s growing scholastic chess culture.
Institutional & Academic Support
University of the Aegean – Offers a certified “Chess in Primary Education” program in collaboration with the European Chess Union, training teachers to apply chess in the classroom.
University of Western Macedonia – Developed Cronus, a chess-playing robot, reflecting the integration of chess, AI, and educational research.
Programs & Pedagogy
| 6. What are the key Chess in Education programs or projects currently running in your country? | Greece’s Chess in Education landscape is supported by a combination of Certified teacher training programs (University of the Aegean, ECU), Voluntary school integration approved by the Ministry of Education, Regional and national student competitions, and innovative European research projects linking chess with STEAM education. |
| 7. Do schoolteachers and chess tutors follow any special curriculum for Chess in Education? What materials, tools or platforms are commonly used in these programs? | Printed books and teacher guides for structured learning. Digital platforms like Lichess and ChessKid are for practice and engagement. Teacher training tools, demo boards, and hands-on materials for classroom interaction. In some cases, innovative tech blends chess with robotics, storytelling, and interdisciplinary learning. |
| 8. Are there any training or certification programs for schoolteachers and chess tutors related to CiE in your country? | In 2024, in partnership with Regional Directorates of Education, the Local Chess Club Associations organised training seminars in Northern Greece. (Thessaloniki and Ptolemaida). These sessions trained dozens of teachers on implementing chess-based programs aligned with the Primary School Skills Workshops. Since 2024, the University of the Aegean, in collaboration with the European Chess Union (ECU), has been offering a flexible, accredited online course titled “Chess in Primary Education.” This program is designed for primary school teachers, pedagogical students, and chess tutors aiming to incorporate chess into educational settings. |
| 9. Are any of these programs and training organised or supported by the National Chess Federation? | The Greek Chess Federation has been proactive in promoting chess in education through various initiatives. In 2025, the Teacher Training Committee was established, focusing on the professional development of educators. It collaborates with Regional Education Directorates and local municipalities to integrate chess into the educational system. The Greek Chess Federation created three educational programs, targeting kindergarten, primary, and high school levels, for the Institute of Educational Policy of the Ministry of Education. These programs were approved, allowing teachers to voluntarily incorporate them into their teaching. |
| 10. Are schoolteachers or chess tutors required to have specific qualifications, training, or certification, either by the education system or the National Chess Federation, to be eligible to teach chess in schools, whether as part of the curriculum or as an extracurricular activity? | There is no qualification required to teach chess in schools, whether as part of the official curriculum or as an after-school activity. While not legally required, formal training is becoming increasingly standard and expected, particularly for public school programs and federally endorsed initiatives. The Greek Chess Federation is actively working to expand training opportunities and promote higher teaching standards through newly established structures like the Teacher Training Committee. |
Impact & Evaluation
| 11. How do you evaluate or measure the effectiveness of your CiE programs? | Teacher & Participant Feedback Collected through post-seminar evaluations to assess training quality and confidence in applying CiE methods. Student Impact Informal classroom observations track improvements in focus, critical thinking, and behaviour. Academic Research The University of the Aegean and ECU conduct research to assess educational outcomes and support evidence-based development. Participation Metrics Effectiveness is also gauged through school participation rates, student retention, and program expansion across regions. Collaboration with Authorities Ongoing feedback from the Institute of Educational Policy and Regional Education Directorates helps monitor implementation and quality. |
| 12. Are there any studies or evidence showing the impact of CiE in your country? | National and Kapodistrian University of Athens: A 2021 study conducted by researchers at this university explored the effects of chess training on college student athletes. The findings indicated improvements in executive functions such as working memory and selective attention, as well as enhanced decision-making and tactical behaviour in sports contexts. 3rd Experimental Primary School of Evosmos (Thessaloniki): This school integrated chess into its curriculum using a CLIL (Content and Language Integrated Learning) approach. The initiative aimed to enhance students’ mathematical skills, English language proficiency, and strategic thinking, demonstrating the multifaceted educational benefits of chess. “Chess as an Educational Tool” by Kostas Giouvantsioudis: This 2024 systematic literature review, authored by a Greek secondary education professor and chess coach, analysed studies focusing on the use of chess to improve students’ mathematical skills. The review concluded that chess can effectively aid in teaching problem-solving and analytical thinking, while also identifying areas for further research. “Chess as a Tool Against Violence” by Vera Avramidou: An article which explores how chess can serve as an effective means to prevent violence among minors. She discusses various research findings and real-life programs demonstrating that chess helps in developing critical skills such as focus, discipline, patience, and strategic thinking. These skills are essential in managing emotions and resolving conflicts non-violently. The article emphasises that chess provides a structured environment where young individuals can channel their energy positively, fostering self-esteem and social interaction, which are crucial in mitigating aggressive behaviours. |
| 13. Can you share a success story or example of impact from a student or school? | 2nd Special Vocational High School of Patras Population: Students with learning and behavioral disabilities Initiative: Teachers used chess to help students with ADHD and mild cognitive challenges improve focus and impulse control. Method: Gradual step-by-step chess instruction incorporated into life skills training. Result: Students showed measurable gains in task persistence and self-regulation. Several began participating in local chess clubs. A Chess Champion Born in the Classroom: The Story of Stavroula Tsolakidou Stavroula Tsolakidou’s journey from a young student in Kavala to a world-renowned chess champion exemplifies the profound impact of integrating chess into education. Born in a city celebrated for its rich chess tradition, Stavroula was introduced to the game at the age of eight. The city’s emphasis on chess in schools, influenced by her achievements, led to its inclusion in 16 out of 23 primary schools. Stavroula’s dedication bore fruit early on. She clinched the World U14 Girls’ Championship in 2013, followed by the U16 title in 2015, and the U18 championship in 2016, making her the first Greek to secure three consecutive world youth titles. Her prowess earned her the Woman Grandmaster title in 2016 and the International Master title in 2018. Stavroula Tsolakidou’s narrative is not just one of personal triumph but also a testament to the potential of educational programs that integrate chess, fostering talents that resonate on global stages. |
Vision & International Cooperation
| 14. What challenges do you face in expanding Chess in Education, and what solutions are you exploring? |
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Lack of Trained Educators Many teachers are unfamiliar with chess or lack the confidence to teach it, especially in a classroom setting that integrates learning outcomes. | Teacher Training Programs Example: The University of the Aegean + European Chess Union academic course for primary school teachers, offering formal certification and ECTS credits. Goal: Build capacity among educators, not just chess experts. |
| Limited Curriculum Integration Chess is often treated as an extracurricular activity rather than a core or cross-disciplinary learning tool (e.g., for math, language, or social-emotional skills). | Curriculum Integration Models Schools like the 3rd Experimental Primary of Evosmos show how chess can be used to teach language, math, and social skills using CLIL and project-based learning. |
| Insufficient Funding and Resources Schools in remote or underfunded areas may lack chess sets, digital tools, or dedicated teaching time. | Digital and Low-Cost Solutions Development of free online platforms (e.g., Lichess classrooms, digital puzzles) and the use of recycled materials to create low-cost chess sets for underfunded schools. |
| Urban-Rural Divide Rural schools often lack access to trainers, competitions, or collaborative networks, limiting exposure and consistency. | eTwinning and International Collaborations Leveraging European platforms (e.g., Erasmus+, eTwinning) for inclusive projects and shared resources among schools across Europe and Greece. |
| Gender Gaps in Participation Although improving, there is still a perception in some regions that chess is “for boys,” leading to lower female participation. | Targeted Inclusion & Diversity Programs Girls’ chess initiatives in Thessaloniki, special education outreach in Athens, as well as programs implemented in Corfu and Diavata prisons are paving the way for more equitable access. |
| Lack of Data and Recognition While anecdotal success stories are powerful, systematic, large-scale research and Ministry-level policies are limited, which affects long-term institutional support. | Public Awareness and Policy Advocacy Articles like Vera Avramidou’s “Chess as a Tool Against Violence” and Konstantinos Vlastaris’“Chess and 21st-century learning skills” are being used to advocate for national education policies. |
| 15. How do you see collaboration among CIE Ambassadors enhancing your national work? |
Collaboration among Chess in Education Ambassadors could significantly enhance and transform isolated efforts into a national movement in Greece by
1. Sharing Best Practices and Resources
Benefit: Access to tried-and-tested lesson plans, classroom activities, and research from other countries.
Impact in Greece: Greek educators can adapt innovative models to local needs, speeding up implementation.
2. Cross-border Projects and eTwinning Collaborations
Benefit: Ambassadors help broker international school partnerships, joint research, and competitions.
Greek Example: Projects like “Chess Unites Cultures – All Different, All Equal” became possible through such networks, boosting inclusion and digital literacy in Greek classrooms.
3. Coordinated Data Collection and Impact Evaluation
Use in Greece: Supports the national effort to present chess as a scientifically validated educational tool to policymakers and school boards.
Benefit: Ambassadors working together can establish common metrics and share evaluation tools to better measure social, emotional and academic outcomes.
Joint Advocacy for Policy Integration
Greek Context: Collaboration can help the Greek Chess Federation and the Ministry of Education learn from how CiE has gained institutional support in other European countries.
Benefit: A united voice across ambassadors strengthens lobbying efforts for chess to be formally recognised in national curricula.
3. Coordinated Data Collection and Impact Evaluation
Use in Greece: Supports the national effort to present chess as a scientifically validated educational tool to policymakers and school boards.
Benefit: Ambassadors working together can establish common metrics and share evaluation tools to better measure cognitive, social, and academic outcomes.
4. Joint Advocacy for Policy Integration
Benefit: A united voice across ambassadors strengthens lobbying efforts for chess to be formally recognised in national curricula.
Greek Context: Collaboration can help the Greek Chess Federation and Ministry of Education learn from how CiE has gained institutional support in other European countries.
5. Capacity Building and Teacher Training
Benefit: Co-developing training modules, certification programs, and teacher toolkits.
Greek Progress: The partnership between the European Chess Union and the University of the Aegean could serve as a model for broader ambassador-led training in other regions of Greece.
6. Inspiration and Motivation
Benefit: Being part of an active, passionate community creates a sense of purpose and momentum.
Cultural Fit in Greece: This aligns well with the collaborative, community-driven ethos of Greek education, especially in rural and island schools where support is often needed.
| 16. Are there any cultural or educational factors that shape how chess is taught in your country? |
| Cultural factors |
|---|
| Classical Heritage of Logic and Strategy Greece’s philosophical legacy (Socrates, Plato, Aristotle) emphasises logic, dialectic, and ethical reasoning — values that align well with chess. Chess is often viewed as a tool for intellectual development, fitting naturally into discussions about critical thinking and ethics. |
| Community and Mentorship Tradition Greek society values mentorship and community-based learning. Chess clubs and school groups often act as intergenerational spaces where students learn from older players or coaches. There is a tradition of extracurricular cultural clubs, which creates a welcoming environment for chess to grow. |
| Competitive Spirit and Civic Pride Participation in school tournaments, regional championships, and panhellenic events taps into a sense of local pride and healthy competition, motivating students and schools to invest in chess programs. |
| Education System Factors |
|---|
| 1. Emphasis on Exam-Based Learning The Greek educational system is highly exam-oriented, especially in secondary education. This can be both a barrier (less time for “non-core” activities) and an opportunity (chess as a tool to improve focus, memory, and math skills). |
| 2. Strong Teacher Autonomy in Primary Schools Teachers in primary schools often have more flexibility to implement creative or interdisciplinary projects, including chess. Many CiE initiatives in Greece thrive thanks to individual teacher initiative, especially in smaller or rural schools. |
| 3. Interest in European Programs Greek schools are active participants in Erasmus+, eTwinning, and European Chess Union programs. These platforms make chess more accessible, especially when tied to broader educational goals like inclusion, peace education, or STEM literacy. |
Challenges Related to These Factors
- Chess must compete with intense curriculum demands in middle and high school.
- Not all educators feel prepared to use chess as a pedagogical tool.
- Some parents and administrators still see chess as “just a hobby,” rather than an educational tool.
Response: Turning challenges into strengths
- By linking chess to academic outcomes (math, logic, reading), teachers gain institutional support.
- Cultural values of logic, dialogue, and mentorship are being harnessed to show chess as a modern tool rooted in Greek tradition.
Thank you for your contribution to the European Chess Union’s Chess in Education mission.
Together, we build a smarter and more strategic future for all learners across Europe and beyond.
We cannot wait to share more Chess in Education news and development from Greece.