Francis Patton Primary School’s chess club received a significant boost recently, thanks to the generosity of local businessman Joe Marable, owner of Esso Crawl Hill.

As a dedicated community partner with Francis Patton since 2009, Mr Marable donated eight chess sets and eight instructional chess books, enriching the resources available for students and educators at the school.

Mr Marable emphasised his ongoing commitment, saying: “Giving back is something I’ve always believed is critical to assisting with the development of our young people in Bermuda.

“I’m proud to support Francis Patton School in fostering essential skills through chess.”

The donation ensures every class, from P3 through Year 8, now has its own chess set, complementing those already available in the school's dedicated chess room.

The school now has 17 chess sets. With 20 active members, the chess club represents over 10 per cent of the school's total student body, highlighting the club's popularity and impact.

Principal Todd Fox expressed the school’s gratitude.

He said: “On behalf of Francis Patton School, I extend heartfelt thanks for your generous donation.

“These chess sets and books will foster critical thinking, problem-solving and strategic planning skills among our students.

“Chess teaches patience, resilience and strategic decision-making — vital life skills that we strive to cultivate in our students.

“These new resources empower our students to think ahead, analyse situations critically and develop as young leaders."

Chess club adviser Don Burgess, who recently became a FIDE [International Chess Federation]-certified school instructor after completing the FIDE EDU Preparation of Teachers programme, also shared his enthusiasm.

“We greatly appreciate Mr Marable's contribution to helping our young players grow,” Mr Burgess said.

“I also want to thank the Ministry of Education and the Bermuda Chess Association for sponsoring the three-day seminar demonstrating how chess can enrich students’ lives.”

Francis Patton School eagerly anticipates the continued growth and enthusiasm for chess among its students — and perhaps even a friendly match with Mr Marable himself in the near future.

• Press release from adviser to Francis Patton Primary School chess club