A proven intervention to unlock the latent potential of SA's children

In the arena of Corporate Social Investment programmes one seldom finds a project that is unmatched because of its sheer practicality and innovativeness, and the benefits that will be derived by worthy recipients, not only in the short term but also in the long run quite frankly for a lifetime.

"Moves for Life" is such a project!

"Moves for Life" unlocks latent potential through structured exposure to the game of chess. These activities are organised into two sub programs: miniChess which is aimed at children of between six and eight while masterMoves was developed for children older than eight.

The unique features of the Moves for Life programme enables an innovative and structured implementation programme for chess education from the lowest grades.
The basic brain analytical functions required to be able to play chess are the same nature of brain function which are required to tackle subjects such as maths and science at school. Therefore chess training, at any level of competence, assists the person in being able to tackle logic-based problems like those found in maths and science.

The chess training is ultimately aimed at improving the national performance in maths and science at schools across the country.

Teachers are equipped with tools and skills to enable them to teach chess in a fun, creative but efficient way. This is achieved by providing teachers and learners with training, workbooks, manuals and other necessary equipment. Monitoring, mentoring, support and record keeping are further essential elements of the Moves for life programme.

Watu Kobese an International Master, and South Africa's highest ranked chess player, is actively involved in the roll-out of the Moves for Life programme and is one of the team responsible for the training of trainers at the schools where the Moves for Life programme is adopted.

"Moves for Life is a fantastic vehicle to create awareness and to promote chess amongst school learners from the lowest grades.

It provides a great opportunity for children to develop essential life skills by participating in this competitive mental battlefield and I believe that corporate sponsors will be able to receive maximum promotional exposure when participating in the Moves for Life programme." IM Watu Kobese

MiniChess - Maths and Science Mentality

A key success factor of the program is the introduction of MiniChess, aimed at Grade R's, 1's, 2's and 3's. Teachers are trained and provided with all necessary material to teach chess to 5, 6, 7 and 8 year olds. A unique feature of this curriculum is the innovative and exciting manner in which basic maths and science concepts are taught to such young children.

MasterMoves Strength in Structure

MasterMoves is aimed at children 9 years and older. Chess, as an organised extramural activity, is established at participating primary and secondary schools. Chess trainers are trained not only to provide adequate chess training but also to co-ordinate chess tournaments, and to act as the point of contact in order to facilitate further Moves for Life activities.

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