Beyond the Classroom
Benefits of Chess
Playing chess offers a multitude of benefits beyond mere entertainment. This ancient game challenges the mind, enhancing cognitive abilities such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and strategic planning. Regular chess play can improve memory, concentration, and decision-making skills, fostering mental resilience and patience in the face of adversity. Moreover, chess promotes social interaction, sportsmanship, and creativity, making it a rewarding pastime for individuals of all ages. Whether played casually or competitively, the benefits of engaging in chess extend far beyond the confines of the board, enriching the lives of players both intellectually and socially.
We have an excellent chess program at Pakenham Secondary College, where newcomers are warmly welcomed along with our more experienced players.
We host Regional Chess Tournaments with other Colleges in attendance, and last year we had a record number of students qualifying for the State Finals. We were awarded 8th place (out of 298 competitors and 47 schools) and came 2nd in the Secondary Girls Chess State Finals.
If any students would like to join our Chess Club, please come along to the library and speak to our wonderful Chess Coordinator, Mr De Lima.
Thanks to Mr De Lima, chess was even available for students at the PSC Swimming Carnival - playing a few rounds in-between swims!
The current Intra-School Tournament Leaderboard appears below:
| YEAR 7 | |
|---|---|
| Hrishav | 1st Place |
| Gavish | 2nd Place |
| Lucinda | 3rd Place |
| YEAR 8 | |
|---|---|
| Callum Featherstone | 1st Place |
| Yathard Yas | 2nd Place |
| Mia Elliott | 3rd Place |
| YEAR 9 | |
|---|---|
| Chloe Dryden | 1st Place |
| Lockie Groves | 2nd Place |
| Zohaib | 3rd Place |
| SENIOR SCHOOL | |
|---|---|
| Sinsarut 'Q' Chitkanwong | 1st Place |
| Patrick Aoun | 2nd Place |
| Daniel Isa | 3rd Place |
Having Fun at STEM Club
Our STEM Club started off with a bang last week - Ms Kosciuk created a fun design and engineering challenge for our students. Our intrepid engineers had such a great time building that they all decided to spend more time on their projects and continue next week.
If you would like to join STEM Club - come along on Thursdays at lunchtime to B5.
PSC Clubs & Activities
All students are welcome to join any of the below clubs and activities (SRC by application/invitation only). If you have any questions, please speak to the Club Coordinator.
