Read the terms before you register
This page outlines the agreement between you and Jolly Good Chess. Please review it carefully before enrolling your child in any class, tournament, or event.
5 rules we expect from every player at our clubs
We keep things simple: respect, focus, and fair play. These five principles make every session safe and productive for everyone.
Respect the board and the player
Respect the board and your opponent. Wait until their move is complete before touching a piece — and never interrupt other games in progress.
Let’s keep those hands and pieces playing nice!
In Jolly Good Chess, "Touch a piece, move a piece" means once you deliberately touch one of your own pieces, you must move it if a legal move exists. "Touch Take" applies when you touch an opponent’s piece you can legally capture—you must take it. These rules help build focus, fair play, and thoughtful decision-making at the board, so think carefully before you reach.
Win with calm, lose with grace
Win or lose, shake hands with your opponent before and after each match and offer a genuine "good game." This simple ritual goes a long way — it demonstrates respect, reinforces good sportsmanship, and sets a positive tone no matter how the board played out. It’s also a quiet reminder that every game, even a tough loss, carries a learning opportunity. Kids who adopt this habit early build resilience, stay grounded in competition, and learn to value growth over results.
Your coach helps you lead the way
Our coaches have been teaching chess for years, so everything they share comes from real experience, not just theory. When kids really listen and try out the tips, they pick things up faster and start seeing real progress on the board.
Play your own game
During tournament games, it’s all on you. No coaching, no hints, no outside help — just the board, the clock, and the decisions you make. Every move is yours, and so is the result.
A streamlined system for every family
We built a registration and data process that saves you time and keeps your child's information secure.
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Club locations
Chessington, Kingston, and Surbiton — each with its own dedicated club and weekly timetable. Simply pick the one that’s most convenient for your family.
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Service options
Weekly classes for all skill levels, private one-to-one coaching to accelerate progress, regular tournaments to test their skills, unforgettable chess-themed parties, or anything else you’d like to ask about.
Thank goodness
Data protected
We take data protection seriously. All personal information you share — whether it’s registration details, payment information, or contact records — is stored securely and handled with strict confidentiality. Nothing is ever shared with third parties without your explicit consent.
What protocols are in place to ensure the privacy and safety of children regarding photography and media?
Common questions about photography, video, and social media at our clubs.
Showing up is a bigger deal than you might think
Progress in chess isn’t about bursts of effort — it’s about showing up. A consistent seat at the board is the single best predictor of growth and confidence. That’s why we’ve designed our programme to fit seamlessly into busy family life: fixed weekly sessions, clear term calendars, and zero surprises. We keep it simple so your child can keep it regular, and the results follow naturally.
Our safeguarding standards at every Surrey club
We hold full public liability insurance and all staff complete enhanced DBS checks before working with children. Every session is guided by a written safety policy that covers supervision ratios, emergency procedures, and our code of conduct — so you can feel confident your child is learning in a secure, well-managed environment.