Maria Helle

A pioneer in using chess as a tool for learning, integration, and confidence in the classroom

For more than 15 years, Maria Helle has been one of Sweden’s leading advocates for school chess. What began in 2008, when she was a mathematics teacher with no prior chess experience, has grown into one of the Nordic region’s most inspiring examples of how chess can transform education.

As a lead teacher at Essingeskolan in Stockholm, Maria has helped build a school environment where chess is integrated into everyday learning — strengthening concentration, logic, problem-solving, resilience, and mathematical understanding. Her work has also highlighted chess as a powerful bridge for integration, helping children from different backgrounds connect beyond language barriers.

Under her guidance, Essingeskolan has become one of Sweden’s most successful school chess environments, with national titles and widespread recognition for its long-term commitment to combining chess and education. In 2026, the school was officially recognized by the Swedish Chess Federation for its outstanding work in school chess.

At ChessParty, Maria will share insights from years of hands-on experience — showing how chess can become a practical and meaningful tool for both learning and community building.