Kingston Junior Chess Club
Welcome to Kingston's Premier kids' chess club. Ages: 6 to 10 (Beginners to intermediate) When: Mondays, 5:15PM – 6:15PM (Advanced or strong!)When: Mondays, 5:30PM – 6:30PM(All start 14th September 2026) Where: The Richard Mayo Centre, Eden Street, Kingston upon Thames, KT1 1HZ
The Jolly Good Chess Academy in Kingston upon Thames
Serious about chess, passionate about progress. Carrying on a proud Kingston chess tradition that stretches back to 1895, The Jolly Good Chess Academy was chosen as the sole team to continue this local legacy for the next generation. We bring the same high standards of instruction to our Kingston club that we provide at the nation's finest private schools. Whether your child is making their first move or preparing for competitive tournament play, they are in expert hands: For Beginners: Establishing a strong, confident foundation in the rules and logic of the game. For Intermediates: Mastering tactical awareness and pattern recognition. For Advanced Players: Specialized tournament preparation and sophisticated strategic development.
A Direct Pathway to Adult & Competitive Chess
We don't just teach junior chess—we build a lifelong pathway into the game. Our academy offers a seamless bridge for developing players to transition into adult club play and regional competition. Perks & Advantages of Our Adult Club Pathway: * Real Competitive Experience: Juniors get the opportunity to test their skills in official local league fixtures and rated matches against experienced adult players. * Accelerated Skill Growth: Playing against varied adult playstyles sharpens defensive resilience, deepens positional understanding, and boosts confidence faster than junior-only play. * Official Rating & Ranking Track: Progress straight into ECF (English Chess Federation) rated play, building an official national rating as they mature. * Lifelong Community & Mentorship: Young players join a welcoming, multigenerational chess community—learning alongside seasoned local players while carrying forward Kingston's historic 1895 chess heritage.
1 club, 3 ways to play: learn, compete, grow
Weekly chess lessons and tournaments for kids aged 6 to 18 in Kingston upon Thames. First Taster Session £10.
Expert coaching, lessons, and tournaments
Build critical thinking and confidence through structured chess instruction, competitive play, and a welcoming community in Kingston upon Thames.
Expert coaching
Experienced instructors teach chess fundamentals and advanced strategies tailored to your child's skill level.
Focused lessons
Individual and group children's lessons build tactical skills, opening knowledge, and endgame mastery at your own pace at Kingston Junior Chess Club
Local tournaments
Regular club tournaments and local competitions let your child test skills, meet other players, and gain match experience.
Supportive community
Learn alongside peers in Kingston upon Thames who share your passion for chess in a welcoming, inclusive club.
Critical thinking skills
Chess strengthens problem-solving, planning, and decision-making abilities that transfer to school and life.
Build confidence
Progress through ranked play and skill development gives children measurable achievement and lasting confidence.
Young players thrive at Kingston Junior Chess powered by Jolly Good Chess
Hear from families who've watched their children develop confidence, strategic thinking, and lasting friendships through our coaching and club community.
My daughter went from nervous about trying chess to playing in tournaments. Mrs Briscoe's teaching style makes it fun and accessible. She's gained real confidence.
Rebecca S.
Parent, New Malden
The Jolly good chess clubs are like a real community. My son looks forward to every session. He's made friends who share his interests and learned to think several moves ahead.
David M.
Parent, Kingston upon Thames
I came not knowing how to play. Now I enter tournaments and actually win games. Mrs Briscoe explains things clearly and the other kids are really supportive.
Arjun T.
Young player, age 10
What impressed me most is how Jolly Good Chess focuses on each child's level. My son wasn't intimidated joining with no experience. He's progressed so much in a few weeks.
Emma L.
Parent, Kingston upon Thames
Jolly good chess taught me that losing is part of learning. I'm not afraid to play harder opponents anymore. Plus my brain feels sharper.
Marcus K.
Young player, age 12
Jo creates a space where kids actually want to be. My daughter talks about chess strategy at dinner. It's brilliant to see her so engaged in something meaningful.
Sophie R.
Parent, Kingston upon Thames
Got questions about kids’ chess?
We've answered the most common things parents ask before joining.
Does my child need experience to join?
Not at all. We welcome absolute beginners through to tournament players. Our coach works with each child at their level, whether they’ve never touched a piece before or they’ve been playing for years.
What age groups do you teach?
We take children ages 6 to 18. Sessions are split into groups roughly by age and ability, so your child is learning alongside others at a similar stage.
When and where do sessions happen?
Our weekly club sessions run during term time in Kingston upon Thames. The next term starts on 14th September. You’ll get the exact venue and schedule when you sign up.
Do you run tournaments for juniors?
Yes. We hold friendly in-club tournaments and help interested players prepare for external competitions. It’s a great way to put skills into practice in a supportive setting.
What should my child bring to a session?
Just themselves and a willingness to learn and a water bottle. We provide all the chess sets, boards, and clocks. If they have a favourite chess set or notebook, they’re welcome to bring it along.
How do I sign up or get more info?
You can book directly through the website or drop us an email. We’re happy to answer any other questions — just get in touch and we’ll reply as soon as we can.
Still have questions?
Send us a message and we’ll get back to you asap
We build confident, resilient kids through Chess!
Our first term starts 14th September, and we offer a £10 taster session so you can see if Kingston Junior Chess is the right fit.
Start your chess journey with Kingston Junior Chess
Contact us today to find out about our weekly club meetings, coaching sessions, and upcoming tournaments for young players.