Smallbrook Chess Tournament!!

After over a month of lunchtime matches, blunders, checkmates, and quiet rivalries, the Staff vs Students Knockout Chess Tournament has finally come to a close!

The grand final was played this week and ended in a tense stalemate — a fitting finish considering the journey. What made it really special? The student in the final was taught chess from scratch back in Year 9, and has grown into a strategic force to be reckoned with. It truly felt like a “student becomes the master” moment.

Across the tournament, we saw:

A Year 7 student making it to the semifinals, knocking out some very experienced players along the way!

Every single match played in brilliant spirit — handshakes, “good games,” and maturity all round (even from those not exactly known for their politeness!)

Some incredible early-round games that honestly wouldn’t look out of place in a proper tournament

Even staff got involved — though Grandmaster Debs might need a rematch next year after her early exit…

Due to how popular (and surprisingly intense!) this has been, we’ll definitely be bringing the tournament back next academic year. Massive thanks to all the students and staff who took part — and if you see the finalist around school, do congratulate him. He earned it.