Little sister Stephanie is also a chess star

Her younger sister, Stephanie, was just four when she became the youngest person to play in a national chess competition two years ago.

Katie will leave her talented siblings in September to take up the boarding school place 130 miles away from her home.

Her mother, Sue, said she was delighted to have won the place.

"She felt she's performed well in the selection procedure.

"She loves competing and seems absolutely determined to take her talent as far as she can.

Katie's titles

British Woman's Chess Association under-nine champion British Woman's Chess Association under-10 champion British Land under-eight girls champion National Mini-Squad under-eight champion London under-eight girls champion

"She really needs the coaching that Millfield will provide."

The school, which provides chess as part of the curriculum, has announced the appointment of its first Master in Charge of Chess.

Matthew Turner, 25, is a grandmaster, ranked 17th in the country.

He will be able to improve Katie's game in individual coaching sessions.

Nigel Short, Britain's top chess player, will also visit the school this summer to provide coaching and master classes.

While Katie has everything to look forward to, the family back in Essex will not be given the chance to miss her too much.

Mrs Hale said: "I won't get the opportunity to miss her. We'll be meeting up at all the chess competitions."