Free Chess Masterclass for Kids
ChessMates runs free live online chess masterclasses for children aged 5 to 14, taught by FIDE-rated coaches. Each session is about 45 to 60 minutes, runs in the browser with nothing to install, and costs nothing — no card details and no obligation to enrol afterwards. Seats are limited so the coach can answer every child's questions.
What happens in a masterclass
- A live coach teaching one clear idea — a tactic, a checkmate pattern, or an opening principle
- Interactive puzzles your child solves during the session rather than a lecture
- Questions answered live, which is why seats are capped
- Suitable for complete beginners as well as children already playing
- Around 45–60 minutes, joined from any browser
- No payment, and no obligation to enrol in paid classes
Who it is for
Children aged 5 to 14, at any level. Complete beginners are welcome — the coach pitches the session to the children who register. Parents are welcome to sit in, and for younger children we recommend it, since a five or six year old often needs a hand with the mouse for the first few minutes.
Upcoming sessions
Session dates are listed on this page as they are announced. If nothing is scheduled at the moment, the quickest alternative is a free 30-minute trial class — the same coaches, one-to-one with your child, also free.
Frequently asked questions
Is the masterclass really free?
Yes. There is no payment and no card details required. Seats are limited because the coach answers questions live.
What does my child need?
A browser and a stable internet connection. Nothing to install. A mouse or trackpad is easier than a touchscreen for moving pieces.
What if we cannot attend after registering?
Nothing happens — just skip it. If you tell us, we can free the seat for another family.
Do we have to join paid classes afterwards?
No. The masterclass is a standalone session. If you want to continue, a free trial class is the natural next step.
How is this different from the free trial class?
A masterclass is a group session on one topic, taught to several children at once. A free trial class is one-to-one with your child and includes a level assessment. Both are free.
Book a free trial class · See the 196-lesson curriculum · Practise with 1,000,000+ free puzzles