The Delancey UK Schools' Chess Challenge 2020-21

We are delighted to report that the long-running UK Chess Challenge has been confirmed for the school year 2020-21.

The current emergency had an unfortunate impact on chess but Sarah and Alex Longson rose to the challenge and somehow managed to move all of the stages from the Megafinal onwards online during 2020.

This was a magnificent achievement and it ensured juniors from all across the United Kingdom could continue to enjoy competitive chess despite chess clubs having to endure an enforced hiatus.

Sarah and Alex have worked very hard indeed to adapt the event to cater for all of the unexpected challenges.

Big plans are in place for 2020-21 and entries are being taken right now.

This is the rallying cry from their website:


One of the world’s largest junior chess competitions

Fun, educational and aspirational

Schools from all across the UK take part

We welcome complete beginners and will help prepare players to play in competitions

Regional and national leaderboards and prizes for schools

Chance for individuals to compete against the best at National level


There are two levels of entry this time.

The Basic package is free!

The Gold package ensures schools will receive the familiar box of prizes, as in all previous years.

My own schools have enjoyed participating in the UKCC every year since it first started.

I strongly recommend entering this magnificent event and the Gold package is definitely the option I would choose.

Head to the UKCC website for further details.

Meanwhile, Sarah will be one of our very special guest speakers at this year's (online) London Chess Conference, 'ChessTech2020'.