Who we are? – Kingston Chess Academy

We recognise chess as more than just a board game; it is a powerful educational tool that enhances critical thinking, concentration, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Our dedicated team of experienced chess tutors is committed to imparting not only the rules and strategies of the game but also instilling values such as patience, perseverance, and sportsmanship.

Chess Director: Ameet Ghasi

Ameet Ghasi is an International Master who has won the British RapidPlay title (the youngest ever winner at the age of 13) and the British Chess title. He stepped back from chess to pursue a successful accountancy career. He is now devoting more time to chess and is on his way to qualify as a grandmaster having achieved two out of the three norms required. Ameet developed his chess skills at the famous Checkmate Junior Chess Club in Birmingham where he sparred with England’s first grandmaster Tony Miles. Ameet is motivated to develop children’s talents to achieve competitive success.

Academy Director: John Foley

John is an experienced chess player and chess tutor. He teaches chess at schools and also privately. He is a certified FIDE Instructor, a certified ECU School Chess Teacher, the councillor of the European Chess Union Education Commission and President of the Kingston Chess Club. He was a London under 16 champion and Oxford University Chess Champion. John is the director of ChessPlus, the chess education company running the Academy. He has recently published a book for beginners titled CheckMate! The Wonderful World of Chess, which can be obtained online from Amazon or Blackwells.