Welcome to Kingston Chess Academy! Our mission is to provide a Centre of Excellence for junior chess in the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames.
We provide a nurturing environment for children, fostering a love for chess and cultivating essential life skills through the game.
We recognise chess as more than just a board game; it is a powerful educational tool that enhances critical thinking, concentration, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Our dedicated team of experienced chess tutors is committed to imparting not only the rules and strategies of the game but also instilling values such as patience, perseverance, and sportsmanship.
Our curriculum is designed to cater to varying skill levels, ensuring that beginners receive a solid foundation while advanced players are challenged to reach their full potential. Through interactive lessons, practice matches, and engaging activities, students will develop a deep understanding of chess principles, tactics, and strategic thinking.
Beyond the board, Kingston Chess Academy seeks to create a supportive community where young minds can thrive and build lasting friendships. We believe that chess is a gateway to a world of intellectual exploration and personal growth, and our Academy is committed to providing a platform where every child can unlock their cognitive potential and develop a lifelong love for learning.
The Academy meets at Tiffin School
London Road
Kingston upon Thames
Surrey KT2 6RL
Car park available for drop off and pick up
Who we are?
Academy Director
Vladimir is a FIDE Master with a current rating of 2288 (FIDE) and 2300 (ECF) and a leading player at Kingston Chess Club. He holds a PhD in Geophysics from Colorado School of Mines and brings a STEM background and analytical mindset to his approach to chess. He has experience of teaching at all levels including juniors and adults, both in group classes and individual sessions.
His coaching focuses on calculation technique – using chess weaknesses for guiding selection of candidate moves – and on developing logical decision making in various types of positions. He aims to share his knowledge in a supportive and engaging way, helping students to develop confidence and clarity.
Academy Director: John Foley
John is an experienced chess player and chess tutor. He teaches chess at schools and also privately. John is a certified FIDE Instructor, a certified ECU School Chess Teacher, a councillor with the European Chess Union Education Commission and President of Kingston Chess Club. He was the London under-16 champion and Oxford University chess champion. John is the Director of ChessPlus, the chess education company running the Academy. He has recently published a book for beginners titled Checkmate! which can be obtained online from Amazon or Blackwells.
Chess Instructor: Alicia Mason
Alicia has been playing chess since she was old enough to move the pieces. She competed in her first over-the-board tournament at the age of seven. She plays for Kingston Chess Club where she is eager to learn and improve. She studied French and German at Cambridge and holds a PhD in Linguistics from New York University. Alicia has taught children a wide variety of subjects. She enjoys finding out how each child thinks and works with children with special educational needs.
For further information, contact John on 07850 045805
Or email the office: [email protected]
Children can join the Academy from the age of 8 to 14
Every Monday, from 5:00 pm until 6:30 pm, during term time
Taking the next step for those who know chess basics