Chess Lessons
Anyone can play chess. Learning how to play the game isn't difficult, and once you know the basics, it can provide a lifetime of enjoyment and mental stimulation.
For youngsters, chess provides a safe, inexpensive way for children to play competitive games, regardless of age, sex, or disability. For adults|, it can provide simple enjoyment, or that much needed 'brain exercise' as we get older.
For Children
Playing chess regularly has been shown by numerous studies to benefit children by improving
concentration, creativity, maths ability, and leading to improved results in school exams. Chess players learn responsibility (if you make a mistake, there is no-one else to blame), and the ability to think clearly and logically about consequences. Most importantly, they learn to win politely and lose gracefully. It gives youngsters a channel for their natural competitiveness, and allows girls to compete with boys on an equal level.
Click here for more links about the benefits of playing chess for children|
Chess can be taught as soon as a child is ready for it, which in most cases means from age 5 upwards. For those who take a strong interest, there is a thriving junior chess scene, with competitions for individuals and for schools teams. Potentially, there is the possibility of selection for the Wales team itself, at several age groups (under 10, 12, 14, 16 and 18). Please contact me for more information if you are interested in finding out more about competitive junior chess.
I am an accredited chess coach with the Welsh Chess Union|, and currently the manager of the Welsh Under-12 chess team. I am also the Junior Development Officer for Pontypool Chess Club|.
I offer lessons to youngsters from ages 5 upwards. Chess lessons usually take place in the comfort and security of your own home, but group sessions can also be arranged. Please contact me to discuss this.
If you have a school that is interested in forming a chess club, please contact me about supporting or running your new club. I am also available for simultaneous displays (playing up to 20 games at once) in schools. This is an excellent way of boosting interest in a club, or as a fun special event.
At time of writing I have an Elo Grade of 1610. Players graded 1500 or above, who are interested in receiving coaching, should seek assistance from stronger players than myself. If you are are a beginner or novice player and don't know what an Elo Grade is, don't worry. It is just a way of assessing the playing strength of players. The best players in the world are graded over 2700!
I offer chess lessons for both beginners who want to know how to play the game, and to players who know the rules and want to become better. Age makes no difference - with a little practice, everyone can improve their chess.
If you are interested in playing chess socially or competitively, please look at the Pontypool Chess Club| page.
For further information on the educational benefits of chess for children, the Chess Scotland |website is a good place to start. Go to the Schools page, and navigate to Chess and Education.