Sussex Junior Chess

Sussex Junior Chess is a not for profit organisation run by volunteers which exists to promote and popularise chess amongst school age children in the county.

We also select and run county teams – Under 9, Under 11, Under 11 Girls, Under 12, Under 13, Under 14, Under 16 & Under 18 – who compete in national events.

All surpluses from SJC events are used to develop junior chess in Sussex.

Training days take place about once a month during the school year at various schools around the county; catering for all ages (4 – 18) and all standards from complete beginner to England standard.

We run a series of 6 tournaments (grand prix) which are open to all, as well as smaller age-restricted tournaments open just to Sussex participants.

We run one of the largest competitions for Schools in the UK, with an average of 40 Sussex Schools entering teams at U11, U14, U16 and U19 age groups. We have also set up an ‘Academy Schools’ program to encourage wider participation in schools. If your school doesn’t have a chess club, we may be able to help you find a coach in your area.


Latest News

Crowborough Grand Prix, 16th September 2023

Everyone you see at our events is a volunteer; so thanks to Entries & Registration: Steve Merchant & Ellie Walsh ...

NCJS Trip to Flanders, 1st-3rd September 2023

Congratulations to Aidan Burnside, Andy Nguyen, Sidhanth Pai and Nayan Rastogi who were all selected for a NCJS (National Chess ...

Glorney-Gilbert International 18th-20th August 2003

The Glorney-Gilbert International is a team competition in 4 age-groups between the home nations (with occasional guest teams from Europe) ...

British Chess Championships, Leicester, 20th-30th July 2023

Nearly 30 Sussex Juniors and their families made the trek up the M1 to compete in the British Chess Championships ...

Chess Fest, Trafalgar Square, 16th July 2023

Several Sussex juniors travelled to Trafalgar Square yesterday to enjoy Chess Fest - a fun and free event staged by ...

Schools U14 Butler Cup 2022-23

Butler Cup Finals Day 13th June 2023 TeamWonDrawnLostMatch PointsGame PointsPlaceDivision 21Windlesham House (A team)300610½ / 1212Brighton College (A team)11137 / ...

Upcoming Events

Full information about the events we organise can be found on our Events Page.

You can book any of our events using our online system.

Entries will close at 6:00pm the day before the event to allow us time to prepare the event – for example ensuring we have sufficient and appropriate coaches on training days; and sufficient equipment and staffing for tournaments

** We politely ask that you do not turn up without prior registration as this causes delays inconveniencing other attendees. **


Book online
Oct
7
Sat
South of England Championships (NJCS Qualifier for Under 11s) @ Yateley Manor School
Oct 7 @ 9:30 am – Oct 8 @ 5:00 pm
South of England Championships (NJCS Qualifier for Under 11s) @ Yateley Manor School
*** This is not a Sussex Junior Chess event. Information on out of county events is provided on a best endeavors basis and should not be relied upon as your only source of information about such events. Please contact the relevant organisers for up to date information *** Event website: https://www.southofenglandjunior.com/ The Under 11 tournament is a Qualifier for the England Junior Squad Trials *** New for 2023: Usually older players who already hold one NCJS half-norm may enter the English Closed Championships which runs alongside. However we believe these will be held on a separate date in 2023. Existing NCJS members will be invited to the ‘closed’ events by Peter Purland. For anything to do with NCJS closed events contact Peter Purland  – petepurland@btopenworld.com ***    
Oct
14
Sat
Grand Prix 2 – Worth @ Worth School
Oct 14 @ 9:45 am – 5:30 pm
Grand Prix 2 - Worth @ Worth School

Location

Worth School, Paddockhurst Rd, Turners Hill, RH10 4SD

What is a ‘Grand Prix’?

The Sussex Junior Chess ‘Grand Prix’ comprises a series of 6 Open tournaments throughout the year. Tournaments are standalone, but a player’s best four results count towards a Grand Prix final placing at the end of the season.  Prizes are awarded to the top three placed players in each age group with medals for those competing in at least five of the six events.

Eligibility

Open to anyone aged under 18 years at midnight on August 31st 2023.

 

Which section should I enter—GP2 (LJCC qualifier) – Under 8, Under 10, Under 12, Under 18

The SJC Worth Open is registered as a qualifying tournament for The London Junior Chess Championships (www.ljcc.co.uk) and the sections reflect this. You should enter the section appropriate to your age. A player may play in an older section if they wish.

 

Prizes:

Prizes—GP2 (LJCC qualifier)

U18 :  Cash prizes for 1st, 2nd, 3rd and grading prizes

U8, U10, U12: Trophies for the top three places in each section. Trophy for the top girl in each section.

No player may win more than one trophy

 

Rate of Play

Fischer time control – 25 mins plus 5 secs a move. ECF rapidplay rules will apply.  A brief explanation is always given at the start of the competition for those not familiar with chess clocks.

Timetable

Round 1 10:00 – 11:00 Round 2 11:15 – 12:15
Lunch
Round 3 12:45 – 13:45 Round 4 14:00 – 15:00
Round 5 15:15 – 16:15 Round 6 16:30 – 17:30
Prize giving approximately 5:45

Please note 9:45 registration to ensure a prompt start at 10:00

Unregistered players arriving after 9:45 will miss round 1. A half point bye may be awarded at the organisers’ discretion

Entry fees:

  Early Entry

(5 or more days before the event)

 

Late Entry

(within 5 days of the event)

 

1 Junior £18 £22
1 junior (ECF member at Silver level or above) £15 £19
Family Ticket* £34 £42
Family Ticket* (ECF members at Silver level or above £28 £36

* Covers 2 – 5 siblings living at the same address

Our volunteers work hard in advance of each event to ensure you have the best possible experience. Entries close at 6pm the day before the event to allow time to prepare the tournament. Entries on the day cause considerable disruption and result in the event starting late.

Therefore, players who turn up on the day without prior registration incur an additional late fee of £7 per player.

Supervision of Children

The organisers and their helpers cannot accept responsibility for juniors.

Children under the age of 8 years will not be allowed to participate unless supervised by a parent/guardian throughout the whole event.

Children over the age of 8 years may be supervised by an adult nominated by their parents (though this cannot be a coach). However, parents/guardians should note that they are still ultimately responsible for their children at all times and in all places during this event (including whilst their children are in session with a coach or playing a game during a tournament).

Photographs and Database

Entry to this event is on the understanding that results and photographs may be used for publicity including in the press, and on our website. If you do not wish your child to be photographed please let an organiser know at registration. Your details will also be held on  our database for the purposes of advising you of events, and County team selection. We never share your details with third parties.

Catering

A comprehensive range of hot and cold snacks is provided at all SJC events including sandwiches, confectionery and hot and cold drinks.

Disclaimer

The Organisers and their helpers accept no responsibility for any damage, theft or accident to the person or property of any competitor, trainee or other visitor at this event. Nor are they responsible for the effects of actions of anyone else attending this event.

SJC Bursary Fund

The SJC Bursary fund has been established to assist Sussex families in need with expenses.  We welcome enquiries in strict confidence to bursar@sussexjuniorchess.org

ECF Grading

All games will be submitted to the ECF for grading.

Oct
21
Sat
Sussex Closed U8 Championship – Chailey @ Chailey School
Oct 21 @ 9:45 am – 1:45 pm
Sussex Closed U8 Championship - Chailey @ Chailey School

Location

Chailey School, Mill Lane, South Chailey, Lewes, East Sussex, BN8 4PU

Eligibility

Open to Sussex players who meet the age qualification for the event they are entering.

Sussex Eligibility: resident in, or attend school or chess club in Sussex, or have previously represented Sussex in a chess tournament.

Age Eligibility: players must be under the age at midnight on 31st August 2023.

School Teams

Schools with three or more players in an age group and who complete all rounds will be eligible for the school team prizes. The best three scores will be totalled to arrive at the School total. In the event of a tie, the score of a school’s fourth best player will be used as a tie break.

All events—9:45 registration to ensure a prompt start at 10:00.

Unregistered players arriving after 9:45 will miss round 1. A half point bye may be awarded at the organisers’ discretion

Timetable

Each round lasts for 30 minutes. Games unfinished at the end of 30 minutes will be adjudicated.  This is not a knockout tournament – every child plays in every round. Clocks will not be used.

Round 1   10:00 – 10:30 Round 2  10:45 – 11:15
Round 3  11:30 – 12:00 Round 4  12:15 – 12:45
Round 5  13:00 – 13:30
Prize giving approximately   13:45

Prizes

Trophies will be awarded to the top three players. The winner will receive the title of Sussex U8 Champion.
A trophy will be awarded to the top girl.
School Teams: School trophy and individual medals for the three highest placed school teams in each age group.

Entry fees

Entry Fee Early Entry

(5 or more days before the event)

Late Entry

(within 5 days of the event)

1 junior £12 £16
2 or more juniors  * £11 each £15 each

* Either same family (third and subsequent siblings free) or same school when booked at the same time

Our volunteers work hard in advance of each event to ensure you have the best possible experience. Entries close at 6pm the day before the event to allow time to prepare the tournament. Entries on the day cause considerable disruption and result in the event starting late.

Therefore, players who turn up on the day without prior registration incur an additional late fee of £7 per player.

Supervision of Children

The organisers and their helpers cannot accept responsibility for juniors.

Children under the age of 8 years will not be allowed to participate unless supervised by a parent/guardian throughout the whole event.

Children over the age of 8 years may be supervised by an adult nominated by their parents (though this cannot be a coach). However, parents/guardians should note that they are still ultimately responsible for their children at all times and in all places during this event (including whilst their children are in session with a coach or playing a game during a tournament).

Photographs and Database

Entry to this event is on the understanding that results and photographs may be used for publicity including in the press, and on our website. If you do not wish your child to be photographed please let an organiser know at registration. Your details will also be held on  our database for the purposes of advising you of events, and County team selection. We never share your details with third parties.

Catering

A comprehensive range of hot and cold snacks is provided at all SJC events including sandwiches, confectionery and hot and cold drinks.

Disclaimer

The Organisers and their helpers accept no responsibility for any damage, theft or accident to the person or property of any competitor, trainee or other visitor at this event. Nor are they responsible for the effects of actions of anyone else attending this event.

SJC Bursary Fund

The SJC Bursary fund has been established to assist Sussex families in need with expenses.  We welcome enquiries in strict confidence to bursar@sussexjuniorchess.org

ECF Grading

This event will NOT be graded.

Training Day 2 – Chailey @ Chailey School
Oct 21 @ 9:45 am – 4:00 pm
Training Day 2 - Chailey @ Chailey School

Location

Chailey School, Mill Lane, South Chailey, East Sussex, BN8 4PU

Eligibility

Open to anyone aged under 18 at midnight on August 31st 2023 and who is either resident in, or attends school in Sussex.

I’m a beginner, is this for me?

Definitely yes. If you like playing chess, then you’ll love playing better.  Our training sessions are for boys and girls of any level – and we emphasise enjoyment, not just ‘classroom’ learning.

Half day training (2½ hours) is especially suitable for beginners and younger children whose concentration spans may be limited.

Just mention when you enter that you are a beginner and we will make sure that you receive the most suitable trainer.

Do I have to go to all training sessions?

No, but most juniors just love coming to see their friends and working their way towards a place in one of the county teams.

Timetable

Registration 9:45

We will let you know which group you are with and how the day is to be organised.

Morning session 10:00 – 12:30

While concentration levels are good, this is when most of the serious training takes place!

Lunch break 12:30 – 1:30

Afternoon session 1:30 – 4:00

More loosely organised with games and quizzes.  Established favourites are consultation team matches (here 5 juniors and their trainer take on a similar group in a different room!) and simultaneous matches (where some 30 juniors take on a top trainer).

Who are the trainers?

We have several professional chess coaches, and also club players who have been specially selected for their ability to work with young people. All hold enhanced DBS clearance for working with children.

Entry fees

  Early Entry

(5 or more days before the event)

 

Late Entry

(within 5 days of the event)

 

1 Junior £17 £20
Family Ticket* £32 £38
1 Junior Half Day £10 £12
Family Ticket* Half Day £18 £22

* Covers 2 – 5 siblings living at the same address

Our volunteers work hard in advance of each event to ensure you have the best possible experience. Entries close at 6pm the day before the event to allow time to allocate players to their training groups. Entries on the day cause considerable disruption and result in the event starting late.

Therefore, players who turn up on the day without prior registration incur an additional  late fee of £7 per player.

Supervision of Children

The organisers and their helpers cannot accept responsibility for juniors.

Children under the age of 8 years will not be allowed to participate unless supervised by a parent/guardian throughout the whole event.

Children over the age of 8 years may be supervised by an adult nominated by their parents (though this cannot be a coach). However, parents/guardians should note that they are still ultimately responsible for their children at all times and in all places during this event (including whilst their children are in session with a coach or playing a game during a tournament).

Photographs and Database

Entry to this event is on the understanding that results and photographs may be used for publicity including in the press, and on our website. If you do not wish your child to be photographed please let an organiser know at registration. Your details will also be held on  our database for the purposes of advising you of events, and County team selection. We never share your details with third parties.

Catering

A comprehensive range of hot and cold snacks is provided at all SJC events including sandwiches, confectionery and hot and cold drinks.

Disclaimer

The Organisers and their helpers accept no responsibility for any damage, theft or accident to the person or property of any competitor, trainee or other visitor at this event. Nor are they responsible for the effects of actions of anyone else attending this event.

SJC Bursary Fund

The SJC Bursary fund has been established to assist Sussex families in need with expenses.  We welcome enquiries in strict confidence to bursar@sussexjuniorchess.org

 

Nov
12
Sun
Sussex Closed U9/11/13/18 Championship – Hassocks @ Hassocks
Nov 12 @ 9:45 am – 5:45 pm
Sussex Closed U9/11/13/18 Championship - Hassocks @ Hassocks

Location

Downlands Community School. Dale Avenue, Hassocks, BN6 8LP

** This is an important selection tournament for the County U9 and U11 squads and as such all current and aspiring County players are strongly encouraged to enter **

Eligibility

Open to Sussex players who meet the age qualification for the event they are entering. Players may ‘play up’ if they wish.

Sussex Eligibility: resident in, or attend school or chess club in Sussex, or have previously represented Sussex in a chess tournament.

Age Eligibility: players must be under the age at midnight on 31st August 2023.

School Teams

Schools with three or more players in an age group and who complete all rounds will be eligible for the school team prizes. The best three scores will be totalled to arrive at the School total. In the event of a tie, the score of a school’s fourth best player will be used as a tie break.

All events—9:45 registration to ensure a prompt start at 10:00.

Unregistered players arriving after 9:45 will miss round 1. A half point bye may be awarded at the organisers’ discretion

Timetable

Round 1   10:00 – 11:00 Round 2  11:15 – 12:15
Lunch
Round 3  12:45 – 13:45 Round 4  14:00 – 15:00
Round 5  15:15 – 16:15 Round 6  16:30 – 17:30
Prize giving approximately   17:45

Prizes

Trophies will be awarded to the top three players in each age group. The winner will receive the title of Sussex Champion.
A trophy will be awarded to the top girl in each age group.
School Teams: School trophy and individual medals for the three highest placed school teams in each age group.

Entry fees

  Early Entry

(5 or more days before the event)

 

Late Entry

(within 5 days of the event)

 

1 Junior £20 £24
1 junior (ECF member at Silver level or above) £17 £21
Family Ticket* £38 £45
Family Ticket* (ECF members at Silver level or above £32 £40

* Either same family (third and subsequent siblings free) or same school when booked at the same time

Our volunteers work hard in advance of each event to ensure you have the best possible experience. Entries close at 6pm the day before the event to allow time to prepare the tournament. Entries on the day cause considerable disruption and result in the event starting late.

Therefore, players who turn up on the day without prior registration incur an additional late fee of £7 per player.

Supervision of Children

The organisers and their helpers cannot accept responsibility for juniors.

Children under the age of 8 years will not be allowed to participate unless supervised by a parent/guardian throughout the whole event.

Children over the age of 8 years may be supervised by an adult nominated by their parents (though this cannot be a coach). However, parents/guardians should note that they are still ultimately responsible for their children at all times and in all places during this event (including whilst their children are in session with a coach or playing a game during a tournament).

Photographs and Database

Entry to this event is on the understanding that results and photographs may be used for publicity including in the press, and on our website. If you do not wish your child to be photographed please let an organiser know at registration. Your details will also be held on  our database for the purposes of advising you of events, and County team selection. We never share your details with third parties.

Catering

A comprehensive range of hot and cold snacks is provided at all SJC events including sandwiches, confectionery and hot and cold drinks.

Disclaimer

The Organisers and their helpers accept no responsibility for any damage, theft or accident to the person or property of any competitor, trainee or other visitor at this event. Nor are they responsible for the effects of actions of anyone else attending this event.

SJC Bursary Fund

The SJC Bursary fund has been established to assist Sussex families in need with expenses.  We welcome enquiries in strict confidence to bursar@sussexjuniorchess.org

ECF Grading

The U9/U11/U13/U18 will be submitted for ECF grading.

Nov
25
Sat
Grand Prix 3 – Eastbourne @ Eastbourne College
Nov 25 @ 9:45 am – 5:30 pm
Grand Prix 3 - Eastbourne @ Eastbourne College

What is a ‘Grand Prix’?

The Sussex Junior Chess ‘Grand Prix’ comprises a series of 6 Open tournaments throughout the year. Tournaments are standalone, but a player’s best four results count towards a Grand Prix final placing at the end of the season.  Silver salvers are awarded to the top three placed players in each age group with medals for those competing in at least five of the six events.

Eligibility

Open to anyone aged under 18 years at midnight on August 31st 2023.

Which section should I enter – Under 11 Minor & Major, U18 Minor & Major?

Minor sections are for weaker players and those new to tournament chess.

The U18 Minor is restricted to players graded 100 or less on the most recent ECF grading list.

Players selected to the U9 and U11 County squads will be expected to enter the U11 Major section.

Winners will be expected to move up to a higher section in subsequent events.

The tournament organisers reserve the right to place a player in the major section if they consider this to be appropriate.  A player may enter a higher section if they wish.

In the event of low entries, sections may be merged.

Prizes:

U18 Major and U18 Minor:  Cash prizes for 1st, 2nd, 3rd and grading prizes

U11 Major and U11 Minor: Trophies for the top three places in each section. Trophies for the top placed player in each age group from U7 – U10 from either (but not both) of the under 11 sections.

Trophy for the top girl from either (but not both) of the under 11 sections.

Rate of Play

Fischer time control – 25 mins plus 5 secs a move. ECF rapidplay rules will apply.  A brief explanation is always given at the start of the competition for those not familiar with chess clocks.

Timetable

Round 1 10:00 – 11:00 Round 2 11:15 – 12:15
Lunch
Round 3 12:45 – 13:45 Round 4 14:00 – 15:00
Round 5 15:15 – 16:15 Round 6 16:30 – 17:30
Prize giving approximately 5:45

Please note 9:45 registration to ensure a prompt start at 10:00

Unregistered players arriving after 9:45 will miss round 1. A half point bye may be awarded at the organisers’ discretion

Entry fees:

  Early Entry

(5 or more days before the event)

 

Late Entry

(within 5 days of the event)

 

1 Junior £20 £24
1 junior (ECF member at Silver level or above) £17 £21
Family Ticket* £38 £46
Family Ticket* (ECF members at Silver level or above £32 £40

* Covers 2 – 5 siblings living at the same address

Our volunteers work hard in advance of each event to ensure you have the best possible experience. Entries close at 6pm the day before the event to allow time to prepare the tournament. Entries on the day cause considerable disruption and result in the event starting late.

Therefore, players who turn up on the day without prior registration incur an additional late fee of £7 per player.

Supervision of Children

The organisers and their helpers cannot accept responsibility for juniors.

Children under the age of 8 years will not be allowed to participate unless supervised by a parent/guardian throughout the whole event.

Children over the age of 8 years may be supervised by an adult nominated by their parents (though this cannot be a coach). However, parents/guardians should note that they are still ultimately responsible for their children at all times and in all places during this event (including whilst their children are in session with a coach or playing a game during a tournament).

Photographs and Database

Entry to this event is on the understanding that results and photographs may be used for publicity including in the press, and on our website. If you do not wish your child to be photographed please let an organiser know at registration. Your details will also be held on  our database for the purposes of advising you of events, and County team selection. We never share your details with third parties.

Catering

A comprehensive range of hot and cold snacks is provided at all SJC events including sandwiches, confectionery and hot and cold drinks.

Disclaimer

The Organisers and their helpers accept no responsibility for any damage, theft or accident to the person or property of any competitor, trainee or other visitor at this event. Nor are they responsible for the effects of actions of anyone else attending this event.

SJC Bursary Fund

The SJC Bursary fund has been established to assist Sussex families in need with expenses.  We welcome enquiries in strict confidence to bursar@sussexjuniorchess.org

ECF Grading

All games will be submitted to the ECF for grading.

Dec
10
Sun
Sussex Closed Girls’ Championship – Burgess Hill @ Burgess Hill Girls
Dec 10 @ 9:45 am – 4:00 pm
Sussex Closed Girls' Championship - Burgess Hill @ Burgess Hill Girls

Location

Burgess Hill Girls, The Sixth Form Centre, Keymer Rd, Burgess Hill, RH15 0EG

** This is an important selection tournament for the County Girls team and as such all current and aspiring County players are strongly encouraged to enter **

Eligibility

Open to Sussex players who meet the age qualification for the event they are entering. Players may ‘play up’ if they wish.

Sussex Eligibility: resident in, or attend school or chess club in Sussex, or have previously represented Sussex in a chess tournament.

Age Eligibility: players must be under the age at midnight on 31st August 2023.

School Teams

Schools with three or more players in an age group and who complete all rounds will be eligible for the school team prizes. The best three scores will be totalled to arrive at the School total. In the event of a tie, the score of a school’s fourth best player will be used as a tie break.

All events—9:45 registration to ensure a prompt start at 10:00.

Unregistered players arriving after 9:45 will miss round 1. A half point bye may be awarded at the organisers’ discretion

Timetable

Round 1   10:00 – 10:50 Round 2  11:00 – 11:50
Lunch
Round 3  12:10 – 13:00 Round 4  13:10 – 14:00
Round 5  14:10 – 15:00
Prize giving approximately   15:15
Party Tea (contributions welcome) 15:30 – 16:00

 

Prizes

U18 Section: Trophies will be awarded to the top three girls. The winner will receive the trophy and title of Sussex Girls U18 Champion. The highest placed U14 will earn the title of Sussex Girls U14 Champion.

U11 Section: Trophies will be awarded to the top three girls. The winner will receive the Sussex U11 Champion title and trophy. Trophies for the top placed player in each age group from U7 – U10.

School Teams: School trophy and individual medals for the three highest placed school teams in each section.

 

Entry fees

  Early Entry

(5 or more days before the event)

 

Late Entry

(within 5 days of the event)

 

1 Junior £20 £24
1 junior (ECF member at Silver level or above) £17 £21
Family Ticket* £38 £46
Family Ticket* (ECF members at Silver level or above £32 £40

* Either same family (third and subsequent siblings free) or same school when booked at the same timeOur volunteers work hard in advance of each event to ensure you have the best possible experience. Entries close at 6pm the day before the event to allow time to prepare the tournament. Entries on the day cause considerable disruption and result in the event starting late.Therefore, players who turn up on the day without prior registration incur an additional late fee of £7 per player.

Supervision of Children

The organisers and their helpers cannot accept responsibility for juniors.

Children under the age of 8 years will not be allowed to participate unless supervised by a parent/guardian throughout the whole event.

Children over the age of 8 years may be supervised by an adult nominated by their parents (though this cannot be a coach). However, parents/guardians should note that they are still ultimately responsible for their children at all times and in all places during this event (including whilst their children are in session with a coach or playing a game during a tournament).

Photographs and Database

Entry to this event is on the understanding that results and photographs may be used for publicity including in the press, and on our website. If you do not wish your child to be photographed please let an organiser know at registration. Your details will also be held on  our database for the purposes of advising you of events, and County team selection. We never share your details with third parties.

Catering

A comprehensive range of hot and cold snacks is provided at all SJC events including sandwiches, confectionery and hot and cold drinks.

Disclaimer

The Organisers and their helpers accept no responsibility for any damage, theft or accident to the person or property of any competitor, trainee or other visitor at this event. Nor are they responsible for the effects of actions of anyone else attending this event.

SJC Bursary Fund

The SJC Bursary fund has been established to assist Sussex families in need with expenses.  We welcome enquiries in strict confidence to bursar@sussexjuniorchess.org

ECF Grading

This event will be submitted to the ECF for grading.

 

Training Day 3 – Burgess Hill @ Burgess Hill Girls
Dec 10 @ 9:45 am – 4:00 pm
Training Day 3 - Burgess Hill @ Burgess Hill Girls

Location

Burgess Hill Girls, The Sixth Form Centre, Keymer Road, Burgess Hill, RH15 0EG

** Incorporates Christmas Tea – donations of party food welcome **

Eligibility

Open to anyone aged under 18 at midnight on August 31st 2023 and who is either resident in, or attends school in Sussex.

I’m a beginner, is this for me?

Definitely yes. If you like playing chess, then you’ll love playing better.  Our training sessions are for boys and girls of any level – and we emphasise enjoyment, not just ‘classroom’ learning.

Half day training (2½ hours) is especially suitable for beginners and younger children whose concentration spans may be limited.

Just mention when you enter that you are a beginner and we will make sure that you receive the most suitable trainer.

Do I have to go to all training sessions?

No, but most juniors just love coming to see their friends and working their way towards a place in one of the county teams.

Timetable

Registration 9:45

We will let you know which group you are with and how the day is to be organised.

Morning session 10:00 – 12:30

While concentration levels are good, this is when most of the serious training takes place!

Lunch break 12:30 – 1:30

Afternoon session 1:30 – 4:00

More loosely organised with games and quizzes.  Established favourites are consultation team matches (here 5 juniors and their trainer take on a similar group in a different room!) and simultaneous matches (where some 30 juniors take on a top trainer).

Who are the trainers?

We have several professional chess coaches, and also club players who have been specially selected for their ability to work with young people. All hold enhanced DBS clearance for working with children.

Entry fees

  Early Entry

(5 or more days before the event)

 

Late Entry

(within 5 days of the event)

 

1 Junior £17 £20
Family Ticket* £32 £38
1 Junior Half Day £10 £12
Family Ticket* Half Day £18 £22

* Covers 2 – 5 siblings living at the same address

Our volunteers work hard in advance of each event to ensure you have the best possible experience. Entries close at 6pm the day before the event to allow time to allocate players to their training groups. Entries on the day cause considerable disruption and result in the event starting late.

Therefore, players who turn up on the day without prior registration incur an additional  late fee of £7 per player.

Supervision of Children

The organisers and their helpers cannot accept responsibility for juniors.

Children under the age of 8 years will not be allowed to participate unless supervised by a parent/guardian throughout the whole event.

Children over the age of 8 years may be supervised by an adult nominated by their parents (though this cannot be a coach). However, parents/guardians should note that they are still ultimately responsible for their children at all times and in all places during this event (including whilst their children are in session with a coach or playing a game during a tournament).

Photographs and Database

Entry to this event is on the understanding that results and photographs may be used for publicity including in the press, and on our website. If you do not wish your child to be photographed please let an organiser know at registration. Your details will also be held on  our database for the purposes of advising you of events, and County team selection. We never share your details with third parties.

Catering

A comprehensive range of hot and cold snacks is provided at all SJC events including sandwiches, confectionery and hot and cold drinks.

Disclaimer

The Organisers and their helpers accept no responsibility for any damage, theft or accident to the person or property of any competitor, trainee or other visitor at this event. Nor are they responsible for the effects of actions of anyone else attending this event.

SJC Bursary Fund

The SJC Bursary fund has been established to assist Sussex families in need with expenses.  We welcome enquiries in strict confidence to bursar@sussexjuniorchess.org

 

Dec
16
Sat
London Junior Chess Championships U10 & U14 @ University of Westminster
Dec 16 @ 9:30 am – Dec 17 @ 7:00 pm
London Junior Chess Championships U10 & U14 @ University of Westminster

*** This is not a Sussex Junior Chess event. Information on out of county events is provided on a best endeavors basis and should not be relied upon as your only source of information about such events. Please contact the relevant organisers for up to date information ***

Event website: http://www.ljcc.co.uk/index.html

The U10 section is not a NCJS trial qualifier but is very good experience for younger players but pre-qualification to play is required (eg via the SJC GP2 Worth Tournament).

The U14 Major is a NCJS norm event for older players seeking qualification to the squad – no pre-qualification needed.

Dec
28
Thu
London Junior Chess Championships U8, U12, U16, U18-21 @ University of Westminster
Dec 28 @ 9:30 am – Dec 30 @ 7:00 pm
London Junior Chess Championships U8, U12, U16, U18-21 @ University of Westminster

*** This is not a Sussex Junior Chess event. Information on out of county events is provided on a best endeavors basis and should not be relied upon as your only source of information about such events. Please contact the relevant organisers for up to date information ***

Event website: http://www.ljcc.co.uk/index.html

The U8 is NOT a NCJS norm-seeking event but is prestigious and good experience – this takes place over 2 days only 29th-30th Dec.

The U12 Major section is a NCJS U11 trial qualifier  and a NCJS norm-seeking event but pre-qualification to play is required (eg via the SJC GP2 Worth Tournament). Other qualifying events are listed on the LJCC event website.

The U16 is a NCJS norm event for older players seeking qualification to the squad – no pre-qualification needed.

The U18/21 is part of the British Championship Qualifying Grand Prix.