The story, coaching philosophy and team standards behind London Chess Academy.
London Chess Academy was founded in 2021 by Shir Bar Tal, a professional chess coach and arbiter with coaching experience going back to 2009. What began as one coach's practical, results-focused teaching method has grown into an academy of Grandmasters, FIDE Masters and expert teachers working with students around the world.
Our approach is practical and built around the student. Instead of teaching chess concepts only in theory, we analyse each student's games, identify the patterns holding them back and build a personalised study plan. Based on performance data from over 500 students, this method helps students improve two to three times faster than standard coaching approaches.
Every student follows a clear structure while the coach adapts the pace, examples and homework to their level, goals and learning style.
We select coaches for both their chess strength and their ability to teach with patience and structure — from first moves to master level.
Chess is taught as a tool for life, not just a game — strengthening decision-making, discipline, focus and emotional control.
Meet the Grandmasters, titled players and expert teachers who deliver our structured and personal approach.
For more information, private programs or group lessons. Tell us a bit about yourself, and we will get in touch as soon as we can.
2 min readTalent matters. Discipline matters more.
2 min readHow Chess Lessons help you improve faster
1 March 2026 · 1 min readUnderstanding why even strong players make simple mistakes
1 March 2026 · 1 min readCommon mistakes that silently destroy your position
27 February 2026 · 2 min readTalent may spark progress. Discipline sustains it.
