FIDE EDU Summer Courses 2026
FIDE Chess in Education Commission announces summer courses for 2026
Chess as a global educational tool
Chess has long moved beyond the boundaries of a classical sport discipline. Today it is one of the most effective tools for developing thinking, concentration, and decision-making skills in both children and adults. This is why the International Chess Federation FIDE is actively developing the Chess in Education program, implementing educational initiatives worldwide.
In summer 2026, the FIDE Chess in Education Commission (FIDE EDU) will once again launch a series of specialized courses for teachers, coaches, and education professionals. These programs aim to improve the quality of chess teaching and expand the international community of educators.
What the FIDE EDU program is
The Chess in Education Commission FIDE Chess in Education Commission is responsible for integrating chess into educational systems in different countries. The main goal is to use chess as a tool for developing cognitive and social skills in students.
Key areas of the commission’s work include:
- training chess teachers;
- development of school chess programs;
- advanced training for coaches;
- implementation of learning-through-play methods;
- international certification of educators.
The summer courses in 2026 continue this strategy and focus on scaling educational initiatives.
Summer 2026 courses: goals and structure
The 2026 summer course program includes several training levels designed for different categories of participants—from beginner teachers to experienced instructors.
Main objectives of the courses:
- development of chess teaching methods in schools;
- formation of pedagogical competencies;
- training in modern digital tools;
- improving the quality of educational programs;
- obtaining FIDE international qualifications.
The courses traditionally include theoretical and practical modules, as well as final assessment.
Main training formats
Within the FIDE EDU program, two key training formats are used:
1. Preparation of Teachers (PoT)
The Preparation of Teachers (PoT) course is designed for school teachers and beginner-level coaches. Participants study:
- basics of chess teaching methodology;
- child learning psychology;
- practical exercises for lessons;
- basic strategies for developing thinking through chess.
After completing the course, participants receive the qualification of school instructor.
2. Preparation of Lecturers (PoL)
A more advanced Preparation of Lecturers (PoL) course is aimed at specialists who will train other educators.
The program includes:
- advanced pedagogical training;
- development of educational programs;
- management of training projects;
- methodology for scaling chess initiatives.
Why these courses matter for education
Modern research and practice show that chess has a significant impact on the development of:
- logical thinking;
- memory and concentration;
- strategic planning skills;
- emotional resilience.
According to FIDE EDU, chess can be integrated into school systems either as a standalone subject or as part of interdisciplinary learning.
Global context and initiative development
In 2026, FIDE continues to expand the geographic reach of its educational programs. Courses are delivered both online and in-person across Europe, Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
This model allows for:
- engaging new teachers;
- standardizing teaching methodologies;
- building an international educator community;
- increasing access to chess education.
A step toward a new education model
The FIDE EDU Summer Courses 2026 are not just educational events. They are part of a global strategy to transform school education through chess.
The Chess in Education Commission FIDE Chess in Education Commission is building a new educational ecosystem in which chess becomes a tool for developing 21st-century thinking and skills.
The initiative of the International Chess Federation FIDE confirms that chess today is not only a game, but also a powerful educational resource for the future.