Premium Chess Lessons
The London Chess Academy offers Premium Private Lessons led by Shir, the founder and CEO.
These lessons are offered on a limited basis and provide direct access to Shir's unique training methodology.
The training goes beyond traditional chess coaching. Most coaches focus on correcting individual moves and accumulating knowledge, tactics, and chess theory. This programme places a strong emphasis on practical play and on correcting mistakes at their core. Rather than addressing moves alone, the focus is on understanding the nature of mistakes and the faulty thinking patterns behind them, whether they stem from gaps in chess understanding or psychological challenges that negatively affect performance.
The programme has produced multiple students who began as complete beginners and reached around 2,000 rating within a few years. One standout success is Amir Portiansky, who progressed from 700 to over 1,900 rating within two years through the dedicated programme.
Based on performance data from over 500 students, participants in this programme improve on average two to three times faster than students following standard coaching approaches.
While results are the main objective, enjoyment of the game remains a priority.
Beyond the game itself, chess is taught as a tool for life, not just as a game. The focus is on strengthening decision-making, discipline, and emotional control.
Experience with business leaders includes working with Amit Pilowsky, co-founder of Key1 Capital; Liat Lachish Levy, former CEO of ChickP; Yoram Ashery, CEO of Nostromo Energy; and Nurit Reder, CEO of Mat-Pals, alongside additional high-profile clients who prefer to remain private. Personal references can be provided upon request.
Extensive experience with talented children was gained through a leadership role at LA Chess Club, prior to establishing the London Chess Academy. Teaching took place in private schools across Beverly Hills and Brentwood, including St Timothy School, St Martin of Tours School, Hillel Hebrew Academy, and Sinai Akiba Academy.
Teaching experience spans back to 2009, with over 1,000 adults and children trained through one-to-one lessons, school programmes, and corporate lectures.
Due to limited availability, Premium Private Lessons are offered by application. Lessons are primarily delivered online, with in-person sessions in London available by arrangement depending on location and availability.
Pricing
Prices start at £180 for online lessons. In-person lessons in London are offered at different rates. Discounted pricing is available for lesson packages.
For students rated above 1,700 aiming to reach expert level (2,000), rates may vary.
Students share their experience
Real stories from families learning with us
Shir is super professional and extremely pleasant to work with. She has a rare combination of kindness, intelligence and endless motivation. For more than a decade she has taught my son and I chess, combining theoretical knowledge with tactics, puzzles and studies. Through her professionalism and a significant tutoring presence, she delivers wonderful courses for students at all levels of their chess journey.
Nurit Reder
CEO at Mat-Pals
I've been introduced to Shir through a friend in venture capital during my investment round. Little did I know, I was about to rediscover my childhood passion for chess and unlock a wealth of insights for my business journey. Shir's teachings brilliantly bridge the gap between chess and business, revealing profound parallels in strategy, adaptability, and decision-making. Her structured approach not only sharpens strategic thinking but also ignites creativity in problem-solving. Through Shir's guidance, I've not only reignited my love for chess but also gained a deeper understanding of its relevance to the startup world. It is providing me with valuable tools and actionable insights for my leadership role.
Liat Lachish Levy
CEO at ChickP
I started studying chess with Shir a couple of years back thinking that I need some 'gym workout' for my brain. Since then, I enjoy studying chess immensely thanks to Shir's deep understanding of the content, her captivating way to teach and explain complicated concepts, and all that through the convenience of studying on Zoom. I highly recommend it to anyone, beginner or advanced player!
Amit Pilowsky
Co-Founder, Key1 Capital
I have three children, 5, 7 and 10, who have benefited from Shir's expertise in teaching chess, along with her passion for the game. They sit for hours with chess puzzles and their only complaint is that no lesson with Shir is long enough. What sets Shir apart is her patience and ability to bond with the students. I highly recommend her.
Dr Behnoosh Farzam
UCLA School of Dentistry
I was in a rating vacuum which veered 100 points up and down. I was recommended to Shir by a friend who went from a beginner to a strong player in a year through her brilliant coaching. Three months later, my ranking was heading upward; after eight months, it was 700 points higher online, and 300 points over the board. Shir also helped me find a club, and I now play in Leagues and tournaments.
Amir Portiansky
General manager at Onami
Aside from her captivating smile, Shir exudes determination, brilliance, and resourcefulness with every lesson. Shir has significantly nurtured my love for chess and fuelled my passion and excellence in science and technology. By constantly challenging my curiosity, intellect, preparation, and self-belief, Shir deserves considerable credit for my achievements. She is so much more than a chess teacher - Shir is an exceptional life coach.
Yoram Ashery
CEO at Nostromo Energy
Shir's chess classes are beyond amazing! I looked forward to each class and immensely enjoyed them. I don't know how she was so patient, but I wish I had a fraction of it! She is highly professional and genuinely inspired me. I strongly recommend her services if you and/or your family want to learn chess in a fun environment!
Ed Hochman
President at Hawk Managements
Shir excels in pedagogical and professional methods of teaching, and she has a strong track record in organising and managing tournaments.
Idan Lavi
Manager of Herzliya Chess Club
Premium Lessons - Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our chess lessons
The lessons are suitable for all ages, from 3 years old to adults, and for all levels from complete beginners up to 2,000 (chess.com).
The standard lesson is 60 minutes. A 90-minute format is recommended for most students to allow greater depth and better results. The 2-hour format is best suited for advanced players.
Most students train once a week. Highly motivated students or those in a dedicated programme may train twice a week. Consistency is more important than frequency.
These lessons provide direct access to the academy’s core methodology, a higher level of personal involvement, and a proven track record of significantly faster improvement based on results from hundreds of students.
Terms and Conditions
- Cancel 48 hours before the trial ends to avoid any charges.
- To cancel and avoid fees, contact us at least 48 hours before the next billing cycle.