We are delighted to announce that Saarah Javaid (Year 8) has reached the Gigafinal round of the UK Schools’ Chess Challenge.

Saarah played brilliantly in the regional Megafinal, which involves six rounds using chess clocks. She was also awarded a silver medal for second best U13 player.

We spoke to Saarah about the competition, she said: “Hundreds of children from all ages across the country took part competed in the regional Megafinal of the UK Schools’ Chess Challenge. I played a total of six games, I needed at least three wins out of the six games to qualify for the next round. This was very intense and challenging as only the top 20% of players in the country make it to the next round and I was competing against some of the best players from the region.

“Fortunately, I managed to win four games and not only qualified but was placed second in my category and I also received a silver medal. I will now compete in the Gigafinal in July, which is the penultimate round and can hopefully reach the main final stage, the Terafinal.

“Chess is an amazing sport with many benefits and I have been playing it for 8 years. I have played in numerous tournaments up and down the country for the Northampton team.”