Building Equal Access to Chess in Schools - Contract Details

Market Notice: This contract covers the delivery of a national programme to increase access to chess in state-funded schools across England, with a focus on expanding participation among pupils who may otherwise have limited access to structured enrichment activity. The supplier will deliver an end-to-end package of support to schools, including the provision of chess equipment, teaching resources, and training for school staff to enable sustainable, school-led delivery. This will include the rollout of structured chess sessions, support for establishing and maintaining chess clubs, and the development of resources to ensure continuation beyond the life of the contract. The programme will operate across approximately 350 to 450 eligible primary and secondary schools and is intended to reach a significant number of pupils nationally. Delivery will target areas of higher disadvantage and prioritise engagement with pupils eligible for Free School Meals (FSM), pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), and girls. The supplier will engage directly with schools and coordinate with relevant partners to support effective delivery. The contract will run for an initial period of three (3) years, with an option to extend for a further one (1) year. It is intended to support educational enrichment, improve pupil engagement, and contribute to outcomes such as enhanced problem-solving skills, concentration, and confidence.