Little Pawns

Classes for our youngest players — weekend sessions in Bermondsey.

What to expect

  • Ages 4–7 years
  • Level From those just learning how the pieces move to those growing in confidence across the basics
  • Lesson length 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on age and experience
  • When Saturday and Sunday afternoons
  • Where Various locations in Bermondsey

In Safe Hands

Your child's wellbeing comes first, always. All our coaches hold an enhanced DBS check, including the Children's Barred List. CheckMate Experiences is fully insured and ICO-registered, and we follow clear safeguarding and child-protection policies at every session.

Get in touch

Wondering if your little one is ready to start? Check the FAQs below, or send us a message here and we’ll help you find the right fit.

By submitting, you agree to us contacting you about your enquiry. Bookings are subject to our CheckMate Kids T&Cs, Privacy Notice and Safeguarding Policy.

Young boy playing chess at a table, focused on the game, with a light blue wall in the background.

Our Socials

Instagram: @checkmate.kids.club

Facebook: CheckMate Kids

FAQs

A woman with long, curly red hair and glasses plays chess against four children, seated at a table in a room with a plain white wall.

  • Little Pawns is designed for children aged 4–7 who are just starting out.

    We group children by stage as well as age, so they're always learning alongside others at a similar level — those who already know roughly how the pieces move settle into the group quickly, while complete beginners are best starting with a 30-minute one-to-one first, so they arrive at their first group class feeling confident.

  • For a child who's completely new to the game, we usually recommend starting with at least one 30-minute one-to-one session first. It's a relaxed, friendly introduction at their own pace — we'll cover how the pieces move and the idea of the game, so they walk into their first group class already feeling at home.

    From there, Little Pawns takes them onward through playful, hands-on sessions.

  • Some children are ready at 4, others a little later — it varies a lot at this age. Little Pawns works best for children who can grasp the basic idea of chess and stay focused for short bursts.

    If you're not sure whether your little one is ready, get in touch and we'll talk it through, or come along and see how they take to it.

  • Yes. If your child is past the basics, take a look at our full kids programme.

  • Sessions run in Bermondsey, and we have different locations across the area — we'll confirm the venue for your child's group when you book.

  • Just a drink and a snack for your child. Everything else — boards, pieces, and materials — is provided.

  • You can book by contacting us at:

    • Messaging: 07849 077058

    • Using our enquiry form

    • Email us: coaching@checkmateexperiences.co.uk.

    We are always happy to discuss which environment is the best fit for your child's current chess level.

  • Yes. All our coaches hold an enhanced DBS check including the Children's Barred List. CheckMate Experiences is fully insured and ICO-registered, and we follow clear safeguarding policies at every session. You can read our full safeguarding policy here.

  • Yes! Alongside our in-person sessions in Battersea, London, we offer one-to-one online and in-person private chess coaching.

    Our experienced coaches tailor every online session to your child's age and ability, whether they are absolute beginners or competitive junior players.

    See our private coaching page.