With 605 million people across the world playing chess regularly, it is no surprise that it is enjoyed by many students at Bloxham.
Recently, the annual House Chess competition returned, with Wilson House managing to retain the trophy for a second year running.
Above left: House Chess 2023 and Right: The Winner!
Chess at Bloxham School dates back to its earliest days when in March 1876 a Chess Club was established, but it was only in 1915 that the first school tournament took place (contested by individuals rather than houses) – L.A Trendell emerged as the champion. Subsequently in 1941, there was a school tournament between pupils and masters.
Interestingly, in 1967 Robin Hillman (Staff 67-99) used the Thursday morning activity period for chess and competitive matches were arranged against schools including Dean Close, Rugby, Stowe and Kingham Hill and in 1970 The Sunday Times Competition was entered for the first time. Under the guidance of former staff members Roger Stein (64-99), Charles Atkinson (88-13) and Dave McLellan (96-18), competitive chess continued to be played and today, we now have the institution of House Chess.
Above: Chess being played in Room 5, 1979