Whether you're just getting started or refining your skills, I’m here to help you grow as a chess player. I offer personalised, one-to-one chess lessons for learners of all ages and abilities — from curious beginners learning the rules to experienced players working on advanced tactics and strategy.
My teaching style is calm, engaging, and fully tailored to each student’s needs. I focus on building confidence, deepening understanding, and developing your strategic thinking — all at your own pace, in a relaxed and supportive environment. Whether you want to play for fun, compete in tournaments, or simply sharpen your mind, I’ll help you enjoy the game and progress with every lesson.
Chess Tutoring Services for All Levels
Beginner Level (Ages 7 and up)
For beginners, I focus on teaching the rules of chess, basic moves, and simple tactics to build a solid foundation.
Chessboard setup and piece movements
Basic check, checkmate, and stalemate concepts
Simple tactics like forks, pins, and skewers
Fun games and puzzles to reinforce learning
Intermediate Level
For intermediate players, lessons focus on advanced tactics, strategy, opening principles, and endgame techniques.
Common openings and their ideas
Tactical motifs and combinations
Positional play and pawn structures
Endgame strategies and techniques
Advanced Level
For advanced players, I provide coaching on deep strategy, advanced tactics, tournament preparation, and psychological aspects.
In-depth opening repertoire building
Advanced positional concepts
Calculation and visualization skills
Match preparation and mental toughness
Schools in Highgate
Many of the families I support live near these schools in Highgate, and their children attend them at various stages of their education. Listing these schools can help parents quickly identify whether my tutoring services are conveniently located for their area. I provide tailored one-to-one support to help students thrive academically, whatever their school background.
Channing School
Primary School
URL: https://www.channing.co.uk
The Bank,
Highgate,
London,
N6 5HF
Highgate School.
Primary School
URL: http://www.highgateschool.org.uk/
North Rd, London N6 4AY
Student & Parent Feedback
Phani
SubjectChess
Lesson FormatIn Person
LocationWatford
Level
My daughter has been learning Chess with Matthew. She has improved a lot. I strongly recommend him.
Mehul
SubjectMaths, Spanish, Chess
Lesson FormatIn Person
LocationBricket Wood
Level
Matthew was great with my son who thoroughly enjoyed Chess, Maths and Spanish tutoring from Matthew. He is reliable, friendly and happy to work things through at an appropriate pace. I would definitely recommend Matthew.
Joanne
SubjectChess
Lesson FormatIn Person
LocationBarnet
Level
Matthew gave my son just 3 one to one Chess coaching sessions in the run up to the National Primary School Chess Championships. He even set homework and looked at my son’s games online between sessions. Matthew picked up on how to strengthen the game very quickly and taught some very effective moves. My son went on to do extremely well and moved up a board and beat Haberdashers school for the first time, his nemesis. He said that Matthew had given him confidence and had understood how to improve his game. Matthew’s Chess coaching is second to none.
Cherno J
SubjectChess
Lesson FormatIn Person
LocationKentish Town
Level
Matthew is a fantastic teacher and a true chess expert who I would highly recommend to anyone either looking to learn for the first time or brush up on their skills. Matthew is very invested in the progress and development of his students and is very committed to ensuring you understand the rules of the game and that you continue to improve under his tutorship. He was always punctual, patient and respectful during my time working with him.
Veronika K
SubjectChess
Lesson FormatIn Person
LocationHampstead
Level
Matthew has been a fantastic tutor to our 6 year old son for chess. Our son had no chess experience before working with Matthew and he found his love for the game. We focused on interest initially to ensure he enjoys the game and the lessons. He started working with Matthew when he was 5y old and. Highly recommend Matthew!
Anthonia
SubjectChess
Lesson FormatIn Person
LocationMill Hill
Level
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.
Bhavna
SubjectSpanish, Chess
Lesson FormatIn Person
LocationEdgware
Level
My son thoroughly enjoys his Spanish tuition sessions with Matthew and even more so that the session ends with a chess session. Matthew takes his time and explains things very well to my 6 year old. Thank you!
Elizabeth
SubjectChess
Lesson Format
LocationBarnet
Level
Matthew is a good Chess tutor and great with kids. My daughter won the school Chess tournament too. He is flexible in arranging lessons which is a bonus given the heavy term time school curriculum.
Sudipta
SubjectChess
Lesson FormatHybrid
LocationSutton
Level
Mathew is very dedicated and works wonderfully with children. He has been teaching Srot for more than 6 months now and I am very pleased with how Srot is making progress.
Oscar M
SubjectChess
Lesson FormatIn Person
LocationIslington
Level
Matthew gave me many chess lessons which were really enjoyable. They helped me improve massively.
Ben W
SubjectChess
Lesson FormatIn Person
LocationTooting
Level
I had chess lessons from Matt over a number of weeks. I’m an adult Club-level player. Matt’s lessons were great, especially his lessons on opening preparation and the queen’s gambit for white. I have undoubtedly benefited from his coaching and I’m sure others who wish to improve will also. Highly recommended. Ben.
If you're interested in home tutoring for Maths, Languages, or Chess, I’d love to help. Get in touch to discuss your goals and arrange a personalised learning plan.
If you're interested in home tutoring for Maths, Languages, or Chess, I’d love to help. Get in touch to discuss your goals and arrange a personalised learning plan.
I have been tutoring since 2002, helping students consistently exceed their predicted grades through personalised, results-focused lessons. I offer in-person tuition across North and North West London, including areas like Mill Hill (NW7), as well as flexible online sessions. Specialising in Maths, French, Spanish, Italian, and Chess, I support learners of all ages and prepare students for all major UK exam boards, including Edexcel and AQA.
