Chess Tutor in Hendon, Finchley & Golders Green

Private Chess Lessons in NW4, NW11, N3, N2 and N12

I provide private chess tuition across Hendon, Finchley and Golders Green, helping students develop strategic thinking, concentration and confidence at the chessboard.
Having played chess since 1989 and with over 20 years of teaching experience, I work with both beginners learning the fundamentals and more experienced players looking to deepen their understanding of the game.
Students I teach often live in nearby areas such as Hampstead Garden Suburb, East Finchley and North Finchley, and lessons can support both recreational players and those interested in competitive chess.
People look for me because I provide clear, structured chess lessons that help students build confidence, improve their understanding of the game and enjoy learning
Chess Tutoring Services for All Levels

Building Strong Chess Foundations and beyond

For beginners and younger players, lessons focus on developing a clear understanding of the core principles of chess.
Students learn concepts such as:
  • Controlling the four central squares
  • Paying attention to their opponent’s moves and not just their own ideas
  • The lawnmower/ladder Checkmate
  • How to play with a closed centre as well as with an open centre
  • How to convert advantages that are not going anywhere too
These foundations help players understand the logic of chess and are vital for becoming a stronger player

Developing Strategic Thinking

As players gain experience, lessons move towards deeper strategic understanding.
Topics may include:
  • Recognising key squares and pawn structures
  • When a bad bishop does and does not matter
  • Not learning to move twenty of an opening because the opponent will play something else
  • Analysing games to identify improvements
This structured approach helps students develop a clearer sense of how strong and weak players think during a game.

Supporting Different Learners

Many students who enjoy chess also appreciate its logical and pattern-based nature. I also support neurodiverse learners giving them a clear structure to follow each move when necessary.
  • Recognising recurring patterns and motifs often helps players improve more quickly.
  • No over complicated explanations
  • Written explanations instead of verbal when necessary
Matthew Teaching Chess
Why Choose Me?
  • Playing chess since 1989
  • Over 20 years teaching experience
  • Patient teaching style for beginners
  • Lessons designed to build confidence and enjoyment

Tutoring Venues In Hendon, Finchley & Golders Green

In addition to offering lessons at your home or online, I can also arrange tutoring sessions at suitable local venues. This can be a great option if you prefer a quiet, neutral environment for learning, or if meeting outside the home is more convenient.

Hendon Library
The Burroughs, London NW4 4BQ
This library is on Middlesex University Hendon campus and a short walk from Hendon Central Station and from 113 and 186 bus routes.

Golders Green Library
156 Golders Green Road, London, NW11 8HE
The library is roughly a 300-500 metre walk from Golders Green Tube Station

Finchley Church End Library
318 Regents Park Road London N3 2LN
It is roughly a 3 minute walk from Finchley Central Underground Station.

Testimonial

Just want to thank you for the help and support you provided to our 8 year old in her study of chess. We found you to have a very good understanding of the subject matter. The techniques you taught her such as writing down her moves and being focused have been extremely helpful and we have seen a vast improvement in her understanding of the game
Anthonia
Lessons are available locally in Hendon, Finchley & Golders Green or online.

For more information about my teaching approach please see my Chess tutor page

Contact Me Today!
Let’s work together to find the right support
I offer home tutoring across all areas of London and am always happy to travel to you.
I believe learning works best when it feels comfortable and supportive and I do my best to make every lesson fit around you and your needs.
Help your child thrive with caring, personalised home and online tutoring in Maths, French, Spanish, Italian and Chess. Every session is designed to build confidence, skills and a love of learning.
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