About Training Days

Who can attend?

We cater for all ages, under 18 on 31/08/2025, and standards of play.

However, you must be either resident in Sussex or attend a school in Sussex or have previously represented Sussex in a national event to be eligible to attend.

What happens at Training Days?

SJC runs training days about once a month during the school year at various schools around the county.

Children are placed in the most appropriate group, according to age, experience, and ability. We aim for small groups – usually less than 10 for the younger sections – and our range of experienced coaches ensures that everyone from experienced county players to beginners are welcome.

We try our best to ensure continuity of coaching across the season; allowing coaches to get to know their groups, and children to build positive relationships with the coaches and the other children in their groups. Many children have made lasting friendships with other children they have met through chess.

Timings

Generally, the morning sessions run between 10:00am and 12:30pm, with the afternoon starting at 13:30 and finishing at 16:00.

There will be at least one break during each half-day session – the younger age groups may break more frequently as dictated by the attention span of the attendees!

Full or Half Day?

During training, the morning tends to focus on more formal training, whilst the afternoon sessions are more loosely structured with children involved in activities such as simultaneous chess or mini tournaments.

Half day training is especially suitable for beginners and younger children.

Who are the coaches?

All our regular trainers are both experienced players and coaches; mostly with many years experience of coaching juniors in clubs or schools.

All have enhanced DBS clearance.

Do I have to attend regularly?

In short – no! Come as often as you like, and as fits in with your family’s schedule.

However, highly motivated children aspiring to the county squads will benefit from regular input and bonding with their team-mates.

What facilities are provided?

A full light refreshments service is provided at all events; comprising hot and cold drinks, tuck shop, sandwiches, toasted sandwiches, bacon rolls and hot dogs at very reasonable prices.

Parents are encouraged to make use of the catering, as this is an important fund-raiser for SJC, enabling us to offer more events and subsidise travel to away venues.

Supervision – can I leave my child?

SJC are unable to provide the level of staffing needed to act ‘in loco parentis’. Parents/Carers are responsible for their children at all times during the event.

Supervision duties may cover more than one child, so Parents/Carers may choose to ‘team-up’ for an event. If you are not staying please make the supervising arrangements for your child clear when booking or at registration.

If your child has any medical or other needs which may necessitate urgent or particular action during the day, we ask that you make this known to the trainer at the start of the session.