Young chess players concentrating on their game at a wooden chess table in a bright, welcoming space

Expert chess coaching for every ability

Whether your child is making their very first move or is an aspiring tournament player, our coaching programme provides the perfect balance of professional rigour and friendly encouragement. With over 30 years of experience as professional chess teachers—and led by a FIDE Master—we bring the same high-standard curriculum used in the region's top private schools directly to our local Kingston community.

Get in Touch Book a £10 Taster Session

Our approach

Learning chess the right way

We believe coaching is about building confidence and a genuine love for the game. Every player progresses at their own pace, with encouragement at every step.

Coaching programs

Group lessons and private coaching

Choose the learning style that fits your child. Group sessions build community while private lessons focus on individual progress and strategy.

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Group lessons

Learn alongside other players in Kingston. Build confidence, make friends, and develop skills through guided instruction and friendly games.

Competitive chess player's hands positioned on mechanical keyboard during online ranked match on dual monitors

Private coaching

Personalized instruction tailored to your child's level and pace. Focus on weak areas, advance faster, and prepare for tournaments with dedicated support.

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Tournament preparation

Get ready to compete. We teach opening strategy, tactical patterns, and match composure to help your child play with confidence in competitions.

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Critical thinking skills

Chess trains the mind to plan ahead, weigh options, and solve problems. These skills transfer to school, sports, and everyday decision-making.

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Sportsmanship and resilience

We emphasize respect, fair play, and learning from losses. Your child builds character alongside chess strength in a supportive community.

Illustrated map promoting Jolly Good Chess Academy's junior clubs in Kingston and Chessington, Surrey.

Community connection

Join young chess enthusiasts across Kingston upon Thames. Weekly club meetings create lasting friendships and shared passion for the game.

What parents and players say

Real results from Kingston Junior Chess

Hear from families who've watched their children develop confidence, strategic thinking, and a genuine love for chess.

Start your child's chess journey

My daughter went from not knowing how to play to confidently playing in tournaments. Jo's coaching made chess fun and gave her real skills she uses every day.

Parent testimonial for Kingston Junior Chess

Emma's parent

Parent, Kingston upon Thames

The group lessons are fantastic. My son loves the mix of learning strategy and playing with other kids his age. He actually looks forward to club night every week.

Oliver's parent

Parent, Kingston upon Thames

I joined as a beginner and felt nervous, but Jo and the other players made me feel welcome straight away. Now I'm playing in tournaments and actually winning games.

Detailed close-up of digital chess board mid-game showing intricately designed pieces and strategic positioning with dramatic directional lighting

Sophie

Young player, age 11

Chess has genuinely changed how my son thinks about problems. He's more patient, more focused in school, and he's made real friendships through the club.

James's parent

Parent, Kingston upon Thames

The coaching is personal and clear. Jo understands how to teach kids without making it feel like work. I've actually improved so much in just a few months.

Wide view of bustling chess tournament in community center with multiple players at tables and natural daylight flooding the space

Lucas

Young player, age 13

Simple, transparent pricing

Coaching plans for every young player

Choose the program that fits your child's skill level and goals. All plans include expert guidance from experienced chess coaches.

Beginner group lessons

£12 per session

Perfect for players just learning the basics. Fun introduction to chess fundamentals and strategy.

Get started

Weekly group session

Learn chess basics

Make new friends

Supportive environment

Intermediate coaching

£12 per session

Develop tactical skills and game strategy. Ideal for players ready to improve their level and compete.

Book now

Weekly group coaching

Tactical training

Tournament prep

Progress tracking

Community events

Advanced private lessons on-line

£120

per month

One-on-one online coaching with personalized instruction. For serious players aiming to master advanced techniques.

Book a lesson

Four One-on-one sessions

Custom lesson plans

Advanced strategy

Tournament coaching

Game analysis

Direct access to coach

Club Membership

£30

per year

Guarantee your place at the club with an annual membership. Session fees are separate, which allows us to cover our essential running costs and maintain the space for our members.

Membership Pack

Support the Club

Priority Tournament Registration

Community events

Start your chess journey with Kingston Junior Chess

Whether your child is just learning the basics or ready to compete, we have a place for them. Get in touch today to find the right program.