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.

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.

Children can join the Academy
from the age of 8 to 14

Every Monday, from 5:00 – 6:30 pm
during term time.

Taking the next step for those who know chess basics.

The Academy meets at Tiffin School
London Road
Kingston upon Thames
Surrey KT2 6RL

Car park available for drop off and pick up

We have a high standard for Safeguarding, Behaviour and Play

Safeguarding Policy

The Kingston Chess Academy (KCA) recognises our responsibility towards the welfare of the children and young people attending the events that it organises. Our staff and volunteers are obliged to follow government guidelines in respect of safeguarding. Our overall safeguarding policy is set out here. We have adopted the safeguarding policy of the English Chess Federation here.

KCA recognises that:

• The welfare of the child is paramount.
• All children, regardless of age, disability, gender, racial heritage, religious belief, and sexual orientation have the right to equal protection from all types of harm or abuse.
• Working in partnership with other agencies is necessary for the safeguarding of children.

FAQ

  • Do you need to be able to play chess to join the club?
    We can teach absolute beginners.
  • Can parents come along to the club?
    Parents are not allowed to be present unless for medical reasons.
  • Can my child try out the club?
    Yes, a child may try one session for free.
  • How safe is the club?
    All tutors have been DBS-checked.  The club has a safeguarding policy.
  • What is the relation between KCA and Kingston Chess Club?
    The Kingston Chess Academy is endorsed by Kingston Chess Club and some members of the club are tutors at KCA. However, the KCA is legally independent of the chess club. The academy is more suited to junior chess.