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OUR STORY

Chess Rising Stars London Academy

“Chess teaches children the wonderful skills of problem solving, planning ahead and sportsmanship”

WFM Maria Manelidou, Founder

ABOUT US

Chess Rising Stars London Academy was founded by WFM Maria Manelidou in 2017. Maria has carefully selected and trained her team of coaches, who bring a wealth of experience and enthusiasm for chess to their teaching.

Chess Rising Stars offer individual and group lessons for all levels and ages, both in-person and online. Our lessons will be tailored to your needs and include: openings, tactics, endgames, strategy, tournament skills and sportsmanship.

We will ensure that our students receive the tools and support that they need for their own chess journey. Whether you enjoy casual play or want to compete in local, national and international tournaments, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality chess education for you.

WHAT WE OFFER

Private chess lessons for all ages and abilities
We offer in-person lessons across London. Our team of expert chess teachers will provide you with personalised chess training. We also offer online lessons wherever you are in the world, using Zoom and lichess.org.

Chess in schools
We currently offer breakfast, lunchtime and after-school chess clubs at primary and secondary schools across London. Our experienced coaches hold up-to-date enhanced DBS check certifications.

Chess clubs
Our junior chess club takes place at Marlborough Primary School. Each child leaves the Chelsea Chess Club with a chess badge, a certificate and some will win medals and trophies! Online clubs are also available on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.

MEET OUR TEAM

Find out about our team of expert chess coaches

JOIN OUR TEAM
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Maria Manelidou

WOMAN FIDE MASTER (WFM), ACADEMY FOUNDER & FIDE INSTRUCTOR
Savvas Manelidis

Savvas Manelidis

Co-Founder & Teacher
Chris Russell

Chris Russell

Coaching Co-ordinator & FIDE Instructor
Marian Petrov

Marian Petrov

GRANDMASTER (GM) & FIDE TRAINER
WGM Andreea Navrotescu

Andreea Navrotescu

Woman Grandmaster (WGM) & Teacher
Thomas Villiers Chess Rising Stars

Thomas Villiers

Candidate Master (CM) & FIDE Instructor
Michael Green

Michael Green

FIDE Instructor