Premium Lessons with the Founder

Premium chess lessons

Direct access to Shir's practical, psychology-led training method.

Premium private lessons go beyond traditional chess coaching. The focus is practical play, correcting mistakes at their core and reshaping the thinking patterns behind repeated errors.

The method combines chess understanding with psychology, discipline and decision-making, while keeping enjoyment at the centre of the learning process.

Founder-led coaching

Training methodology

Lessons focus on the student's real decisions: what they see, what they miss and why certain mistakes repeat. The goal is not only to learn positions, but to improve the student's thinking process.

Practical play and game review
Core mistake correction rather than surface fixes
Psychological and decision-making habits under pressure

Founder-led coaching

Proven results

Shir has worked with more than 500 students through this methodology, with many improving 2-3 times faster than standard coaching. Students have started as complete beginners and reached around 2,000 rating.

Amir Portiansky improved from around 700 to over 1,900 within two years
Training supports both online and over-the-board progress
Study plans are shaped around each student's goals and games

Founder-led coaching

Experience behind the programme

Shir has taught chess since 2009 and has worked with more than 1,000 adults and children, including business leaders, private schools and the Los Angeles Chess Club.

Experience with executives, founders and advanced students
Private school and chess club teaching background
Chess as a tool for discipline, emotional control and clearer decisions

Memberships

Premium Lesson Options

Premium lessons are offered selectively. Online lessons start at £180, with packages and London in-person sessions available by arrangement.

Founder Led

Online Premium

£180 from per lesson

Direct lessons with Shir
Practical game review and study plan
Online private lesson format
Package discounts available

Choose Plan

London In-Person

By request limited availability

In-person lessons in London
Rates vary by arrangement
Best for intensive focused sessions
Subject to Shir's schedule

Choose Plan

Expert Track

Custom for 1,700+ rated players

For students aiming at expert level
Advanced preparation and analysis
Personalised improvement roadmap
Rates may vary by goal and structure

Choose Plan

Prices start at $250 per lesson, contact us to book your lessons.

Next step

How premium enquiries work

Tell us the student's current level, goals and preferred lesson format.

Because availability is limited, we will confirm fit, schedule and lesson structure before booking.

Founder-led coaching

Request premium founder-led coaching

Share your rating, goals and preferred format so we can confirm whether premium lessons are the right fit.

Request Premium Lessons

Contact Us

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.

What Happens After You Sign Up?

Step 1 Sign Up

Start your 7-day free trial

Step 2 Get Matched

We match you with the right coach

Step 3 Start Learning

Join your first lesson and enjoy

Step 4 Track Progress

Personalised plan and feedback

Step 5 Compete

Join tournaments and improve

Premium Chess Lessons - Frequently Asked Questions

What ages and levels are the lessons for?

Premium lessons are suitable for children and adults, from complete beginners to students rated around 2,000 on Chess.com.

What lesson duration do you recommend?

Standard lessons are 60 minutes. We usually recommend 90 minutes for deeper work, while 2-hour lessons are best for advanced students or focused tournament preparation.

How often should I take premium lessons?

Most students take one lesson per week. Motivated students preparing for faster progress or tournament goals can take two weekly lessons, but consistency matters more than frequency.

Are premium lessons suitable for busy students or professionals?

Yes. The training is designed to be efficient, practical and high-return, with a clear focus on the thinking patterns and decisions that make the biggest difference.

Why are premium lessons priced higher?

They provide direct access to Shir's core methodology, personal involvement and a proven approach that has helped many students improve substantially faster than standard coaching.

Are premium lessons available year-round?

Availability is limited and students are accepted selectively, depending on schedule, goals and fit.