At Puddletown Chess, when you see players improving, winning games, and moving up levels, it might seem like everything just works. But behind the scenes, there’s an entire system of frameworks, founders, processes & volunteers working to make sure every student gets the best training possible.
It’s not just about the lessons—it’s about the people.
Meet the Team Behind the Success
Our training program wouldn’t be what it is without an amazing team of coaches, teaching assistants, and support staff. Almost every level has at least two coaches, some even have four! Plus, each level has a teaching assistant to help students stay on track.
But that’s not all. We also have special office hours, where students can get extra help, ask questions, and sharpen their skills outside of regular class time. It’s all part of the system designed to help players succeed at each stage and get to the next.
A Step-by-Step Approach to Growth
Our training program isn’t just about playing games—it’s carefully designed to help players develop their skills at the right pace while preparing them for the next level.
At the beginner level (Level 1), students are introduced to chess concepts in a fun and engaging way. The focus is on making chess enjoyable while building a solid foundation. Classes are kept to one hour, and while homework is available, it’s not graded—allowing students to explore the game without pressure.
As players progress to Level 2, things start to get a bit more structured. Classes extend to 1.5 hours, and students begin playing “tandem” games against bots to test their understanding. Homework becomes a requirement, though it’s still kept simple. Coaches now grade assignments, helping players recognize mistakes and improve their skills.
By the time students reach Level 3, the intensity & requirements ramps up. Players no longer rely on bots—they face off against each other and even take part in simul games against their coaches. The concepts become more advanced, and coaches provide more detailed feedback on both gameplay and homework. Each assignment is designed to push students toward deeper strategic thinking.
Our new level 3+, introduced in Spring 2025 is a bridge for students to experience the challenges of Level 4 & beyond. The curriculum is still evolving but halfway through the term, the 10 inaugural Level 3+ students are having a blast and learning a ton.
At Level 4 and the elite levels, training becomes even more rigorous. Students typically spend multiple terms at this stage to fully master the advanced concepts required for competitive play. Sessions go beyond just learning new tactics—players now engage in tournament-level games, deep game analysis, and structured strategy sessions. The expectation is higher, and students must demonstrate a strong commitment to improvement.
This structured approach ensures that players grow step by step, never feeling overwhelmed but always being challenged. The longer they stay in the program, the more they refine their skills—building not just chess knowledge but also patience, resilience, and critical thinking along the way.
Why Does This Work?
Expert Coaching Team: Every player gets guidance from multiple experienced coaches, plus extra help from teaching assistants.
Strategic Curriculum: Each level introduces new challenges gradually, so players don’t feel overwhelmed.
Support Beyond Classes: With office hours and a step-by-step progression, players get the help they need to improve at their own pace.
Tournaments & Real Games: By Level 3, students compete against each other and coaches, preparing them for real tournament play.
At Puddletown Chess, we don’t just teach chess—we provide systems, frameworks & support where students can thrive. Every part of our program is designed to help students grow into stronger, more confident players. And behind it all? A dedicated team working every day to make sure each player gets the best experience possible.
