The Knight School: Revolutionizing Chess Education for Kids

Founded in 2007 by Dr. David Brooks in Birmingham, Alabama, The Knight School has transformed the traditional approach to teaching chess. What began as a high school chess team evolved into a vibrant, nationwide after-school program that brings high-energy, fun-filled chess lessons to children across the United States.

Headquartered in Birmingham, The Knight School began franchising in 2015, expanding its unique model to over 18 metropolitan areas nationwide. The Knight School offers a distinctive, party-based approach to chess education, making the game accessible and enjoyable for children aged 5 to 16.

Its curriculum includes colorful silicone wristbands representing mastery of different chess tactics, engaging activities like chess puzzlers with candy prizes, and daily tournaments where students play for Mardi Gras beads.

What sets The Knight School apart is its commitment to making chess education accessible to all. No prior teaching or chess experience is required to become a franchisee, as comprehensive training and support are provided.

Training

The Knight School provides a detailed training program to ensure that franchisees are fully prepared to operate their chess instruction business effectively. The franchisor offers the following structured programs:

1. Initial Training Program: This mandatory program includes both classroom and on-the-job training. It covers essential areas such as establishing the business, team building, marketing strategies, and operational procedures, with sessions conducted both at The Knight School’s headquarters and at the franchisee’s location.
2. Ongoing Training and Support: Franchisees are required to maintain standards through continuous learning. The franchisor may implement remedial training or additional programs as needed, especially if quality assurance audits indicate any deficiencies in service or performance.
3. Optional Supplemental Training: Franchisees have access to optional supplemental packages and materials that further enhance their ability to deliver top-quality chess instruction. This program ensures that franchisees can stay updated with new techniques and tools as the business evolves.

Territory Protection

The Knight School grants franchisees a Protected Territory where they can operate without direct competition from other franchisees. This territory is defined in the franchise agreement, but the franchisor retains the right to adjust it if needed for system changes.

Although physical territory is protected, digital marketing and brand activities may overlap across regions. Franchisees must comply with strict brand guidelines, and all marketing materials require franchisor approval to maintain consistency.

The franchisor does not assist with site selection, as most franchisees work from home offices. However, franchisees are required to uphold all operational standards within their territory as outlined in the agreement.