Introduction
If you are searching for chess classes for kids in Singapore, it helps to look beyond location and price. The right class can build focus, patience, problem-solving and confidence, while keeping the game fun so your child stays interested. Some families prefer a gentle introduction for beginners, while others want a structured pathway towards tournaments and higher-level play. With many options available, compare teaching style, coach experience and your child’s goals before deciding. This guide lists 10 chess centres in Singapore, with overviews, Google reviews, locations, pricing and contact details to help you find a suitable match for your child.
1. Singapore Chess Federation (SCF)
Overview of the Business
Founded in 1949, the Singapore Chess Federation (SCF) is the main body that oversees chess events and development in Singapore, and it has shaped the local chess scene for decades. The non-profit has charitable status and is affiliated with the World Chess Federation, the Singapore National Olympic Council and the Singapore Sports Council. For parents looking into chess lessons for children, SCF runs structured courses and training suitable for all ages, with a clear progression from beginner stages to advanced play. The federation focuses on nurturing elite athletes while building an inclusive community and extending chess benefits to underserved groups. Lessons are delivered by FIDE trainers and experienced coaches, including Grandmasters, with an emphasis on enjoyment, skills development, confidence and sportsmanship.
Why Parents Choose Singapore Chess Federation (SCF)
- Established in 1949, serving as the principal authority over all chess events in Singapore.
- Affiliated with the World Chess Federation, Singapore National Olympic Council, and Singapore Sports Council.
- Operates as a non-profit organisation with charitable status and as an Institute of Public Character.
- Offers well-structured programmes across six levels, from Ultra Young to Junior Prep Squad.
- Each level can be completed in eight weeks and comes with a certificate.
- Classes are conducted by FIDE trainers and experienced coaches, including Grandmasters.
- Coaches have guided thousands of children over more than 15 years.
- Provides a clear progression path from beginner stages to advanced play.
- Offers a pathway towards national team development for aspiring competitive players.
- Lessons aim to be fun and engaging while fostering skills, confidence, and friendships.
- Coaches are patient, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in each child’s growth.
- Courses include guidance on etiquette and sportsmanship.
- New students, except for Beginner course sign-ups, can attend an evaluation session to determine the appropriate level.
Google Review
Kudos to SCF (Head of delegation Carleton Lim) for his unwavering support during the recent Commonwealth Chess Championship held in Malacca.
Special thanks to GM Audrey & IM Enrique for spending so long hours to painstakingly do post-game analysis & game prep with each and every player. Your guidance & encouragement really made a difference to the players.
The Singapore Chess Federation has elevated the local chess community, true to their vision! Thank you, SCF!
Location & Availability
Classes are available at 51 Bishan Street 13 #02-01A SIGC, Singapore 579799.
Price Range
Ultra Young course fee: $327. Beginner, Elementary, Intermediate, Developmental, and Junior Preparatory Squad course fees: $305.20. Holiday Intensive courses for Beginner, Elementary, Intermediate, Developmental, and Junior Preparatory Squad: $305.20.
Website
Singapore Chess Federation (SCF)
Phone
+65 6352 9690
singchess@singaporechess.org.sg
2. Chess.sg
Overview of the Business
Chess.sg is a local academy established in 2023 that focuses on building critical thinking, logic and strategy through lively, engaging lessons. Based at Bukit Timah Shopping Centre, the academy aims to make chess feel playful and enjoyable for children, often using storytelling to bring positions and ideas to life. Students gain confidence as they progress along a clear pathway from beginner levels to tournament play. Chess.sg runs weekly FIDE-rated tournaments that adhere to international standards and places importance on a warm, encouraging learning environment. The team includes MOE-certified coaches, chess masters and national arbiters, and they provide equipment and an in-house syllabus so students only need to bring enthusiasm.
Why Parents Choose Chess.sg
- Dedicated to building critical thinking, logic, and strategy through engaging lessons.
- Aims to spark a love for chess in a playful manner, using stories to bring the game alive.
- Students actively anticipate lessons and gain confidence as they progress.
- Provides a clear development pathway from beginner to tournament player, including weekly FIDE-rated tournaments.
- Offers a familiar, supportive, and encouraging learning environment.
- Teachers focus on creating special moments, recognising that a happy child learns better.
- Achieves a 90%+ match rate with a team of 70 coaches, ensuring a suitable coach for each student’s needs.
- Lessons are available online or in the comfort of students’ homes.
- Features experienced trainers, including MOE-certified coaches, chess masters, national arbiters, and chess storytellers.
- Provides equipment and an in-house syllabus, requiring students to only bring enthusiasm.
- Offers customised lesson plans and materials for schools, tailored to age, goals, contact time, and playing strength.
Google Review
It was one of the best International Tournament we went so far which is organized by Singapore Club.
We r very happy.
Our aim was to actually increase our chikds fide rating and get more international experience.
We have beeen to different countries to play. But this tournament is very different. The staff were really friendly. And our daughter , Noushyn loved it and enjoyed it. Made new friends too. 🥰😇
We will be back soon for more tournaments.
Thank u
Location & Availability
Classes can be held at the Chess.sg Clubhouse in Bukit Timah Shopping Centre by appointment, in students’ homes for private coaching, online via Google Meet, and at various schools, offices, preschools, and student care centres for school coaching.
Price Range
Online 1-to-1 coaching: $45 to $65 per lesson. Online 1-to-1 coaching 10-lesson package: $55 per lesson. In-person 1-to-1 coaching at home: $80 to $110 per lesson. In-person 1-to-1 coaching 10-lesson package: $90 per lesson.
Website
Phone
+65 80802391
+65 80802391
contact@chess.sg
3. Chess at Three Singapore
Overview of the Business
Chess at Three Singapore began in New York City in 2011 and is known for teaching very young children through storytelling. The centre believes a child’s imagination is a powerful learning tool, and it uses engaging narratives to make chess accessible and memorable. Programmes start from six months and target children aged three and up with playgroups and role-playing activities designed for early learners. This approach blends fun with learning while supporting emotional skills such as empathy, self-confidence and sportsmanship. If you want a gentle, imaginative way to introduce chess to younger children, Chess at Three offers lessons that balance developmental benefits with intellectual growth.
Why Parents Choose Chess at Three Singapore
- Utilises a unique storytelling approach to teaching chess.
- Offers a grandmaster-endorsed, award-winning curriculum.
- Builds both chess skills and a love for learning in children.
- Fosters emotional skills like empathy, self-confidence, and sportsmanship alongside gameplay.
- Ensures programmes provide intellectual and developmental benefits.
- Features a structured pathway with 10 chess modules tailored to age, experience, and growth goals.
- Experienced tutors are adept at teaching complex subjects to young children.
- Tutors are welcoming, kind, and patient with young players.
- Programmes are designed to be both enjoyable and effective.
- Is part of a global network of over 400 tutors that has taught more than 30,000 students and partnered with over 600 schools.
Google Review
My child has been learning chess with Teacher Kevin at Three Chess Singapore, and the progress has been amazing. He’s incredibly patient, encouraging, and explains strategies in a way that’s fun and easy to grasp—even for young beginners. You can tell he truly cares about each student’s growth, not just as chess players but as thinkers. The sessions are always engaging, and my child looks forward to every class. Thank you, Teacher Kevin, for making chess such a meaningful and enjoyable journey!
Location & Availability
Classes are held at United Square in Novena, Bukit Timah Plaza, Harbourfront Centre, and Katong V.
Price Range
Enquire for rates.
Website
Phone
+65 9436 1885
singapore@chessat3.sg
4. Chess Grande
Overview of the Business
Chess Grande positions itself as a premier academy that shows how chess can teach much more than moves on a board. The academy uses chess to develop life skills, whether a child plays for competition, academic enrichment or enjoyment. Chess Grande caters to learners of all ages, from preschoolers through to university students, and offers school coaching, private lessons, courses and holiday camps. The team emphasises continuous improvement in teaching methods and seeks to nurture well-rounded young people who do well academically and personally. Their aim is to provide high-quality instruction while helping students develop patience, perseverance and concentration.
Why Parents Choose Chess Grande
- All coaches are FIDE certified, ensuring high standards of chess education.
- Eight out of 15 FIDE-Developmental Instructors in Singapore work with the academy.
- Coaches are also certified by the Ministry of Education.
- Chess Grande is the only academy in Singapore with instructors certified by MOE, FIDE, and SCF.
- Lessons are designed to adhere to Singapore’s educational standards while fostering chess skills.
- Prepares students for global competition with world-class instruction.
- Connects students with Singapore’s local chess community and competitive pathways.
- Free consultation calls and assessments are offered to recommend suitable programmes.
- Coaching programmes and curriculums can be customised for schools.
- Emphasises core values such as patience, perseverance, sportsmanship, and concentration.
- Private lessons are conducted by seasoned professionals using meticulously curated curriculums.
- The Chess Mastery private programme includes an Accountability Contract requiring parental support for intended outcomes.
Google Review
What truly sets Chess Grande apart is their amazing coaches. They are patient, encouraging, and make learning chess fun for kids of all levels. My child looks forward to every class, excited not just to play but also to see the friends he’s made along the way. The supportive and welcoming environment keeps him engaged and eager to improve.
If you’re looking for a chess class that builds both skill and character, Chess Grande is the perfect place. Highly recommend!
My son, who was a complete beginner, has gained so much confidence and skill in just a few weeks. The lessons are engaging, and the focus on both strategy and fun keeps him excited for every class. Plus, he’s made some great friends who share his love for chess!
I highly recommend Chess Grande to any parent looking to introduce their child to the wonderful world of chess. It’s a fantastic place for learning, growth, and making lasting memories!
Location & Availability
Classes are available at 39 Jln Pemimpin, #01-05, Singapore 577182.
Price Range
Grade 1 Chess Foundations: $250.
Website
Phone
+65 8074 8526
getinfo@chessgrande.com
5. Royal Gambit Chess Academy
Overview of the Business
Royal Gambit Chess Academy focuses on developing a child’s thinking skills, confidence and concentration, with an emphasis on long-term growth rather than quick wins. The academy aims to make high-quality coaching accessible and bases lessons on patient teaching and a clear curriculum. FIDE-rated coaches tailor lessons to each child’s thinking style, helping students build strong fundamentals before moving into deeper analysis. Royal Gambit runs one-on-one coaching, small group classes and holiday chess camps during MOE breaks. The academy also hosts tournaments and events, offering places for beginners through to intermediate and advanced players who want structured, thoughtful training.
Why Parents Choose Royal Gambit Chess Academy
- Focuses on nurturing potential through critical thinking, confidence, and concentration, developing winning mindsets on and off the board.
- Emphasises foundational development over quick wins.
- Committed to making high-quality coaching as accessible as possible, with a mission of having a class within 30 minutes.
- Builds exceptional ability through patient teaching, clarity-driven guidance, and structured curriculums.
- Core values of critical thinking, confidence, and concentration shape every lesson.
- Personalised coaching based on individual thinking styles rather than mere playing ability.
- Coaches selected for their patience, communication skills, and ability to explain complex ideas simply.
- Curriculum cultivates intelligence in layers, moving from fundamentals to deep analysis.
- Offers beginner, intermediate, and advanced training tailored to individual progress.
- Highlights the importance of viewing mistakes as learning opportunities and nurturing disciplined thinking.
- Provides both one-on-one coaching and small group classes of up to eight students.
- Offers holiday chess camps during MOE breaks for beginners and intermediates, aimed at strengthening fundamentals and tactics.
- Hosts tournaments and chess events for all skill levels.
Google Review
Location & Availability
Classes are available islandwide across Singapore.
Price Range
In-person beginner coaching: $160 to $320 per month. In-person intermediate coaching: $200 to $360 per month. Online beginner coaching: $140 to $250 per month. Online intermediate coaching: $180 to $300 per month.
Website
Phone
+65 8949 9314
+65 8949 9314
rgchessacademy@gmail.com
6. Chesslab
Overview of the Business
Chesslab is a boutique chess school that offers Grandmaster coaching for children and adults, from beginners through to competitive players. The school focuses on making lessons enjoyable, structured and easy to follow, while ensuring that progress is overseen by Grandmasters with strong coaching experience. For parents who want technically sound guidance from the start, Chesslab offers high-level oversight and a pathway for students to join international circuits and global tournaments. The academy also prioritises cognitive development, using chess to sharpen concentration, memory and problem-solving alongside competitive training.
Why Parents Choose Chesslab
- A bespoke boutique chess school offering Grandmaster coaching.
- Grandmasters personally oversee all coaching, ensuring expert guidance.
- Lessons are designed to be enjoyable, structured, and comprehensible.
- Offers a variety of lesson types to cater to different students’ needs, from beginners to advanced players.
- Provides expertise and opportunities for international circuit participation and global tournaments.
- Students have achieved notable titles such as FM and IM, highlighting effective training.
- Aims to enhance cognitive development, focusing on skills such as concentration, memory, and problem-solving.
Google Review
Location & Availability
Classes are available at Hotel Royal, Level 3, Unit 28, 36 Newton Road, Novena, Singapore 307964.
Price Range
Enquire more for rates.
Website
Phone
+65 8053 3828
enquiries@chesslabsingapore.com
7. Intchess Asia
Overview of the Business
Intchess Asia is an established academy founded by Mr Ignatius Leong in 1996 and registered in 2002, bringing over 30 years of experience to chess education in Singapore. The academy is known for nurturing both top chess talent and strong character, and it often partners with MOE and international schools as a recognised training provider. Intchess Asia teaches all ages with a FIDE-recognised syllabus delivered by qualified trainers, and it offers innovative programmes such as Math & Chess and Programming Chess that introduce computational thinking. The academy also organises events, sells equipment and provides tournament preparation, while offering online and in-person training options and structured progress updates.
Why Parents Choose Intchess Asia
- Over 30 years of experience in chess education, focusing on character development alongside skill enhancement.
- Preferred partner for MOE and international schools.
- Courses taught by qualified trainers with a FIDE-recognised syllabus leading to a Certificate of Achievement.
- Training is adapted for all age groups, with a strong focus on children.
- Experienced in organising local and international chess events.
- A one-stop shop for all chess needs, including equipment sales and consultations.
- Provides tournament preparation and tailored training plans, with options for online and in-person classes.
- Utilises technology to support student competency and introduce computational thinking.
- Features a Mental Health Expert to guide stress management and mindfulness techniques.
- Offers structured updates on students’ progress.
Google Review
Location & Availability
Classes are available at Woods Square Tower 1 in Woodlands and at Edgefield Plains.
Price Range
Enquire more for rates.
Website
Phone
+65 9023 7487
admin@intchess.com.sg
8. CHESS SPARK
Overview of the Business
CHESS SPARK focuses on engaging chess lessons created specifically for children, with an emphasis on making the game approachable and fun. The centre recognises that chess can feel overwhelming for beginners, so it provides guides and simple materials to support both children and parents at the start of the learning journey. For families looking for a gentle, encouraging entry into chess, CHESS SPARK aims to nurture confidence and basic skills while reassuring parents that every expert began as a beginner. The centre’s lessons aim to help young learners enjoy chess while steadily developing their tactical and strategic understanding.
Why Parents Choose CHESS SPARK
- Focused on helping children learn, grow, and enjoy chess training.
- Provides guides to assist both children and parents in preparing for the learning journey, recognising that chess can be daunting for newcomers.
Google Review
Location & Availability
Classes are available at 83A Rowell Road, Singapore 208015.
Price Range
Special Easter Holiday Program: $420 per child.
Website
Phone
+65 8161 5906
9. CHESS ACADEMY (SINGAPORE) PTE LTD
Overview of the Business
CHESS ACADEMY (SINGAPORE) PTE LTD runs enrichment programmes at Katong Shopping Centre that focus on chess for young children, supporting both academic and personal development. The academy welcomes learners from around four years old and combines play and competition to help children learn and improve. Since 2022 it has been a FIDE-endorsed Chess Academy under Tier 3 Scholastic, delivering both over-the-board and online lessons. The centre runs monthly events for players of all ages and offers thematic holiday programmes designed to teach foundational and competitive strategies. The team is led by Philip Chan, who brings long-term involvement in the chess community alongside a qualified coaching staff.
Why Parents Choose CHESS ACADEMY (SINGAPORE) PTE LTD
- FIDE-endorsed Chess Academy under Tier 3 Scholastic since 2022.
- Led by Philip Chan, an experienced figure in the chess community with extensive mentorship.
- Team includes FIDE Senior Trainers, FIDE Trainers, and Developmental Instructors dedicated to enhancing children’s skills.
- Offers structured modular programmes that suit learners from beginner to advanced levels.
- Provides flexibility with over-the-board training and online lessons.
- Hosts monthly events to encourage participation and exposure to competition.
- Conducts thematic holiday programmes designed to teach foundational and competitive strategies.
- Focused on instilling valuable values and skills in young minds for their future.
Google Review
Location & Availability
Classes are available at 865 Mountbatten Road #02-27/28 and #06-44 Katong Shopping Center Singapore 437844.
Price Range
Enquire for rates.
Website
CHESS ACADEMY (SINGAPORE) PTE LTD
91501159
info@chessacademy.com.sg
10. RoyalChess
Overview of the Business
RoyalChess was founded in 2012 by professional trainer Tigran Gyozalyan and focuses on developing strategic and creative thinking in young players. Coach Tigran is a FIDE master with formal academic qualifications in chess coaching and pedagogy from the Russian State University of Physical Education, Sport, Youth and Tourism. His method emphasises a solid foundation and independent decision-making, skills that transfer beyond the chessboard. Over nearly two decades, RoyalChess has helped students achieve national, ASEAN, European and World titles, reflecting a strong commitment to competitive development. Private one-on-one lessons allow highly tailored coaching that adapts to each child’s strengths and needs.
Why Parents Choose RoyalChess
- Coach Tigran is the only chess coach in Singapore with formal academic qualifications in chess coaching.
- He holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from a prestigious Russian institution, trained in the Soviet chess system.
- His approach cultivates strategic and creative thinking while accurately diagnosing individual strengths and weaknesses.
- RoyalChess has a proven track record of developing champions across various competitive levels.
- Students gain critical thinking skills that transcend chess, benefiting various life paths.
- Private one-on-one sessions allow tailored learning experiences that adapt to each child’s strengths.
- Coach Tigran personally reviews all coaching applications and works with students from as young as four years old.
Location & Availability
In-person classes are available in Singapore.
Price Range
Pricing options are discussed with Coach Tigran after submitting an application and assessing the child’s needs.
Website
Phone
+65 9727 9324
info@royalchess.sg
How to Choose the Best Chess Class for Your Child
- Coach qualifications — Look for recognised chess credentials and teaching experience appropriate for your child’s age.
- Teaching style — Check whether lessons use storytelling, drills, analysis or a mix, and pick what suits your child’s learning style.
- Level fit — Ensure the class matches your child’s current skill, beginners need patient, clear introductions to rules and basic tactics.
- Progression pathway — Pick a centre that offers levels, assessments or tournament pathways if your child will continue long term.
- Class size — Smaller groups or one-to-one lessons allow more personalised feedback.
- Age suitability — Younger children need interactive, developmentally appropriate activities to keep their attention.
- Learning environment — A calm, organised, child-friendly setting helps children settle and enjoy lessons.
- Confidence focus — Choose programmes that encourage independent thinking and learning from mistakes.
- Values taught — Look for lessons that also teach patience, sportsmanship and discipline.
- Parent communication — If you want regular updates, confirm how centres report progress and milestones.
- Practical logistics — Consider schedule, travel time and whether online lessons work better for your family.
- Competition opportunities — If your child enjoys contests, choose centres that run tournaments or offer competition prep.
- Transparent pricing — Check what fees include, such as assessments, materials and events, so there are no surprises.
- Personality match — Match the programme’s tone and pace with your child’s temperament, cautious beginners often prefer gentler approaches.
Looking for a Home Tutor Instead?
Some parents choose one-on-one home tuition as an alternative to enrichment classes or as extra support. MindFlex connects families with qualified home tutors matched to their needs. For those exploring home-based options, here is what MindFlex offers.
MindFlex – Your Best Source for Home Tuition
Overview of the Business
MindFlex Home Tuition is a Singapore agency that helps parents find private home tutors across subjects and academic levels. The agency says it has a database of more than 50,000 active tutors and has managed over 100,000 successful cases. The tutor-matching service is free, with no agency fees. Parents can specify level, subject, location, budget, timings and other preferences, and MindFlex coordinators shortlist suitable tutor profiles. Trial lessons are available so families can check the fit before committing, and full-time coordinators operate seven days a week to help with requests.
Why Parents Choose MindFlex
- MindFlex claims to have over 50,000 active home tutors in Singapore.
- Its tutor-matching service is free, with no agency fees or obligations.
- Tutor profiles are tailored according to level, subject, location, budget, timings, and other parent requirements.
- Full-time coordinators are available seven days a week to assist with requests.
- TUTOR EXPRESS™ offers a comprehensive list of suitable tutor profiles within six hours.
- MindFlex asserts it has handled over 100,000 successful cases and supports over 45,000 repeat clients.
- Trial lessons are available for families to evaluate the fit before committing.
Google Review
This is the 2nd time I look for them to source a tutor. This time round I had more specific requirements, including the tutor’s age group, gender and most importantly, someone who is patient and able to communicate well with students who are weaker in Chinese. Alyssa and the team were understanding, responsive and professional throughout the entire process.
They took the effort to carefully match a tutor who suits my son’s learning needs and personality. I truly appreciate their commitment and excellent service. Highly recommended for parents looking for reliable and attentive tuition support!
Thank you for being so responsive and helpful throughout the arrangement process. Really appreciate the support and would definitely recommend them to other parents looking for reliable tutors.
Radah Kasiramu
The agents have always been professional and helpful throughout the process. Their support and dedication have made it much easier for me to find suitable students and successfully close assignments.
It is definitely a pleasant experience working with MindFlex. I look forward to work together on more assignments in the future!
Teacher Lay Chin is good at explaining the subject and makes the topic fun and interesting. She is able to guide students well and cater to their needs.
From student's mommy
My daugther feels comfortable with Teacher Lay Chin is very quickly. She is soft spoken, gentle & caring. My girl especially enjoy the fun challenge of doing the maths questions together.
Thanks to Teacher Lay Chin, my daugther''s results improved from F to A in 3 months!! I will strongly recommend Teacher Lay Chin.
Beyond the academic results, Mr. Tan’s teaching style has built my son’s confidence and interest in the subject. He is punctual, pleasant disposition and understands what a child needs. The entire experience with Mind Flex has also been very pleasant, professional, and supportive.
Highly recommended for anyone looking for a tutor who genuinely cares and delivers excellent results
Friendly, pleasant, swift, helpful and most importantly not pushy
Subjects Offered
- Languages & Humanities: English, Chinese, GP, Economics, History, Geography, Literature.
- Maths & Science: Maths, Science, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, POA.
- Academic levels: Preschool, Primary School, Secondary School, JC, IP, Online Tuition.
- Major examinations: PSLE, O Level, N Level, A Level, IGCSE, IB, AEIS.
- The request form also includes options for Poly, University, ITE, Adult Language, and other learning needs.
Teaching Methodology
- MindFlex matches students with private home tutors based on families’ specified level, subject, location, budget, preferred timings, and other needs.
- Home tuition is promoted as personalised learning that allows students to clarify doubts and progress at their own pace.
- Tutors may provide targeted materials and practices to address weaknesses.
- Lessons can be customised based on each student’s learning speed, ability, and academic objectives.
- The process involves requesting a tutor, reviewing profiles, and confirming selections with MindFlex coordinators.
Location & Availability
MindFlex facilitates private home tuition across Singapore. Lessons are arranged based on the student’s location and requirements, offering a comfortable learning environment while saving travel time and costs.
Price Range
Pre-School tuition: $25 to $70 per hour. Primary 1 to 4 tuition: $25 to $70 per hour. Primary 5 to 6 tuition: $30 to $80 per hour. Secondary 1 to 2 tuition: $30 to $85 per hour. Secondary 3 to 5 tuition: $35 to $95 per hour. JC tuition: $40 to $130 per hour. IB tuition: $40 to $130 per hour. IGCSE and International tuition: $30 to $120 per hour. Poly and University tuition: $40 to $130 per hour. Adult tuition: $30 to $100 per hour.
Website
MindFlex – Your Best Source for Home Tuition
Phone
+65 9695 3522
+65 9695 3522
admin@singaporetuitionteachers.com
