If you’re a parent in Hillview, Bukit Batok, and your child has just discovered chess — congratulations. You’re not just looking at a game, you’re looking at a tool that builds thinkers. Kids who play chess learn how to pause, plan, and think ahead — skills that help in every part of life.
But here’s the key: how your child learns chess makes a big difference. A good academy helps your child grow with a plan. A not-so-good one might leave them confused or bored. That’s why choosing the right chess school is so important.
In this article, we’re going to walk you through the top 5 chess coaching academies around Hillview. We’ll share what makes each one special. And we’ll show you why Global School of Chess is ranked number one — not just here in Singapore, but by families across the world who want smart, structured learning for their children.
Online Chess Training
Learning chess has changed in big ways. In the past, if your child wanted to play better, you had to drive them to a local class, sit through traffic, and wait while they took lessons in a group. Now, your child can learn from the best chess coaches in the world—from your living room.
Online chess training is not just a backup plan. It’s the smarter way to learn. It’s structured. It’s flexible. And it helps your child learn faster, in a space where they feel safe and confident.
Online training means no travel, no rushing, and no distractions from noisy classrooms. Your child logs in, meets their coach and classmates, and dives into lessons full of puzzles, games, and feedback—all in real time.
Landscape of Chess Training in Hillview and Why Online Chess Training is the Right Choice
Hillview is a neighborhood that’s filled with learning. From well-known schools to tuition centers and quiet libraries, it’s a place where families value smart habits and strong thinking. And while there are some chess classes offered here—mostly through schools or small groups—they often feel a bit… random.
You’ll find a few weekend classes at nearby community centers. You might see flyers for short chess camps during school breaks. And yes, there are private coaches who travel to homes or teach in groups. But the truth is, many of these programs are unstructured. There’s no long-term plan. One class might focus on tactics. The next might cover openings. And no one really tracks what your child is learning week to week.
That’s why online chess training stands out.
It gives your child access to a full curriculum—one that moves slowly, clearly, and with purpose. They start with the basics and build real skill over time. Each class fits into a bigger plan. Each game teaches something useful. And every child is supported, no matter their level.
Parents in Hillview are starting to see this. They want more than just a fun hour of chess. They want a learning path that helps their child grow confident, focused, and strong. And online learning delivers that—beautifully.
How Global School of Chess is The Best Choice When It Comes to Chess Training in Hillview
This is where Global School of Chess shines brighter than the rest.
We’re not just an online class. We’re a complete chess academy—built for children, shaped by world-class coaches, and powered by a curriculum that actually works. If you want your child to enjoy learning while truly growing, there’s no better place to start.
Live, Interactive Classes
Our classes are not videos. They’re real, live sessions where your child talks to the coach, plays games, asks questions, and gets personal feedback. Each class is a small group, so every student is seen, heard, and guided with care.
We keep it friendly and focused. Kids stay engaged because they feel included. They learn faster because our coaches speak their language—kind, simple, and clear.
A Full Learning Path That Builds Real Skills
At Global School of Chess, your child doesn’t just learn “a few tricks.” They go on a journey. From their very first move to their first checkmate, every lesson follows a structured plan. We start with basics—how pieces move, how to win a game—and slowly add strategy, tactics, planning, and more.
Every class builds on the one before it. There’s no jumping around. No guesswork. Just steady, smart learning.
One-on-One Coaching That Brings Out the Best
We also offer private coaching for students who want more help—or want to grow even faster. In these one-on-one sessions, coaches look closely at your child’s games, fix mistakes, and teach deeper lessons based on your child’s own style of thinking.
Private coaching builds confidence fast. It helps kids who feel stuck get unstuck. And it gives advanced players the push they need to reach the next level.
Fun Tournaments That Build Confidence
Every two weeks, we hold friendly online tournaments for our students. These are not just about winning—they’re about learning and trying your best. Kids feel proud of their progress. They cheer each other on. And they get to test their skills in a safe, supportive setting.
Our students come from all over the world—more than nine countries across four continents. Your child gets to be part of a global team. It’s not just a class. It’s a community.
Offline Chess Training
Offline chess training has been around for decades. It’s the “old school” way. You find a class nearby—maybe at a school, a club, or a tuition center. You drive your child there. They sit in a group, listen to a coach, and play a few games. Then they come home.
For some families, this works. It feels traditional. It feels familiar. Kids get out of the house, make friends, and learn a bit along the way. But here’s the truth—just because it feels familiar doesn’t mean it’s the best way to learn chess anymore.
Most offline classes in Hillview follow the same format: one coach, many kids, and a short lesson before some quick games. There’s no whiteboard full of ideas. No personal tracking of what your child struggles with. No clear direction for what comes next.
It’s okay for casual fun. But if you’re hoping your child will grow as a thinker, a planner, and a real chess learner—this kind of setup may leave you wishing for more.
What Learning Looks Like in a Typical Offline Chess Class
In a typical offline class, the coach teaches a quick concept—maybe a famous checkmate or a basic tactic. They explain it to the group, sometimes with a demo board. Then the kids partner up and start playing games.
While the coach walks around, they try to help when they can. But with so many students, it’s hard to give full attention to each one. Often, the games kids play don’t even connect to the day’s lesson. So the learning doesn’t go deep. Mistakes go unnoticed. And the child goes home not quite sure what they learned.
If your child is shy, they may not ask questions. If they’re struggling, they might just smile and nod. And if they miss a class? There’s usually no way to make it up or get back on track.
That’s the offline reality—and for many kids, it’s just not enough.
Drawbacks of Offline Chess Training
Let’s look a little deeper at why offline chess training—while helpful for some—often falls short for most kids who want to truly learn and grow.
No Clear Learning Path
Most offline classes don’t follow a full curriculum. Coaches might decide what to teach on the spot, based on what the group needs or what they feel like covering. One week it’s openings, the next it’s puzzles, then maybe endgames.
But children need more than random lessons. They need structure. A path. A clear starting point and a clear destination. Without that, they forget what they learned the week before. They repeat the same mistakes. They get stuck in the same patterns, never knowing how to move forward.
One Coach, Too Many Kids
Group classes usually have one coach and a dozen or more kids. That’s a lot to manage. Some students get attention, but others get left behind. The coach may not see a student’s mistake until it’s too late. And by then, the moment to teach has passed.
Children who need more help may feel lost. And kids who could move faster may feel bored. There’s no way to tailor the lesson to fit each child. It’s one-size-fits-all—and it rarely fits anyone perfectly.
Time Costs Add Up
Driving to class every week takes time. In a busy area like Hillview, traffic, parking, and schedules can make it hard to stick to a weekly lesson. Parents end up rearranging their day. Children arrive tired or distracted. And if you miss one class? There’s no way to go back and review.
All of this adds pressure—to parents, to kids, to everyone. And when learning feels stressful, children don’t enjoy it. That’s when growth slows down.
Best Chess Academies in Hillview
Hillview is a place where learning never stops. It’s filled with schools, enrichment centers, and bright young minds eager to grow. So it’s no surprise that more and more families here are exploring chess as a powerful tool to build focus, patience, and smart thinking in their children.
But here’s what many parents quickly realize—not all chess academies are created equal.
Some teach a few tips. Some keep kids busy for an hour. And only a few truly guide students on a full journey of learning, progress, and confidence. Let’s now explore the top 5 chess academies in Hillview—starting with the one that’s leading the way across Singapore and beyond.
1. Global School of Chess
When it comes to helping kids learn chess the right way, Global School of Chess is number one—for good reason.
We are not just an online class. We are a full chess school. We give children a clear path, expert coaches, and a loving, supportive environment where they can grow at their own pace. We don’t rush. We don’t guess. We guide—with heart, structure, and care.
A Curriculum That Grows With Your Child
Our lessons are not random. We follow a complete curriculum that starts with the basics and moves step-by-step into deeper, smarter play. Your child will learn how to move each piece, how to see patterns, how to plan moves ahead, and how to stay calm under pressure.
Every lesson builds on the last one. And everything your child learns fits into the big picture. They never feel lost. They never feel bored. They just keep growing—one small step at a time.
Live, Interactive Classes That Kids Love
Every class is live, fun, and interactive. Your child joins a real classroom online—with a kind coach, a few classmates, and a screen full of puzzles, games, and ideas to explore. Our coaches talk to every student, ask questions, give praise, and offer gentle corrections when needed.
We keep class sizes small so that every child gets attention. And because it’s all online, your child can learn from home—calm, focused, and comfortable.
One-on-One Coaching for Focused Growth
For students who want to move faster or fix specific mistakes, we offer private coaching. In these one-on-one sessions, the coach works only with your child. They go deep into your child’s games, explain what went wrong, and help them think in smarter ways.
The results? Students improve quickly. They feel more confident. And they start making better choices not just in chess—but in life.
Tournaments That Make Learning Real
Every two weeks, we run special online tournaments for our students. These are friendly, fun, and full of learning. Your child gets to play real games against other kids from all over the world. They try out what they’ve learned. They win, lose, and grow with every match.
And the best part? They feel proud. They feel brave. They feel like a real chess player.
A Global Community That Feels Like Family
Our students come from more than nine countries. We’ve built a worldwide classroom where children learn, laugh, and grow together. Your child will meet students from Singapore, the U.S., India, the U.K., and more—all learning from the same trusted coaches and sharing the same love for the game.
It’s not just about chess. It’s about friendship, focus, and finding joy in learning.
2. Chess Academy (Singapore) Pte Ltd
Chess Academy (Singapore) is located at Katong Shopping Centre. They offer programs for all levels, from beginners to those preparing for national and international competitions. Their classes are divided into structured modules and they run special themed courses too. This gives students the chance to focus on different parts of the game at different times.
They also host workshops and chess events, which is a good way for students to get comfortable with competitive play. Their programs are well planned and provide group training sessions to help kids improve.
But it’s mostly an offline setup. That means you’ll have to travel for each class, and the schedule might not always fit around school or other activities. Also, with many kids in one class, the attention each child gets might be limited. This is one reason why online learning, like at Global School of Chess, can be a better option.
3. RoyalChess
RoyalChess is a chess academy founded by professional chess trainer Tigran Gyozalyan in Singapore, in the year of 2012. Coach Tigran mainly conducts private chess lessons for kids who have keen interest in chess. He also conducts chess lessons in local and international schools such as Raffles Institution, Hwa Chong Institution, ACSI and Northland Primary. Many of Coach Tigran’s students have shown outstanding results within a short period of time of working with him in the national chess competitions.
While RoyalChess offers personalized coaching, the focus is primarily on in-person sessions, which may not be as flexible as online programs like those offered by Global School of Chess.
4. ChessLab Singapore
ChessLab is a boutique chess school providing top-quality coaching for children and adults. Lessons are conducted in a fun, structured environment, overseen by experienced Grandmasters. Their top students include many top US, Asian, Canadian, and European chess players, several of whom have gone on to achieve FM and IM titles.
However, ChessLab’s emphasis on competitive play is commendable; their offerings may not be as accessible or flexible as the online programs provided by Global School of Chess.
5. Chess Gaja
Chess Gaja is a globally recognized online chess academy led by GrandMaster Priyadharshan Kannappan. They offer elite-level coaching for students of all skill levels, utilizing a Learning Management System for effective learning. Their coaching team comprises accomplished, FIDE-rated coaches, and they have trained over 200 students across 30 countries.
While Chess Gaja offers quality online coaching, Global School of Chess’s personalized approach and emphasis on life skills development provide a more holistic learning experience.
Why Online Chess Training is The Future
The way children learn is changing. And that’s a good thing.
Online learning isn’t just a trend. It’s a better way to help kids grow. It gives them more time, more comfort, and more access to the best coaches in the world. When it comes to chess, online classes are leading the way—not just in convenience, but in results.
Learning from Anywhere, Without Stress
With online chess training, your child can learn from home. There’s no rushing through traffic, no packing bags, and no waiting around. They open their laptop, join the class, and start learning right away. It’s easy. It’s smooth. And it saves your whole family time and energy.
Children are more relaxed at home. That means they listen better, ask more questions, and stay focused. They learn faster because they feel safe and supported.
World-Class Coaches at Your Fingertips
In a typical local chess class, you get whatever coach is nearby. But online, your child gets access to the best teachers in the world—coaches who are trained, experienced, and deeply committed to their students.
Online learning breaks down borders. Your child could live in Hillview and be coached by someone in Europe, India, or the U.S.—without ever leaving home. That’s not just cool. That’s life-changing.
Consistent Progress, Clear Results
The best online chess programs follow a curriculum. They don’t just throw lessons together. They move step by step, building skills slowly and carefully. That kind of structure is often missing in offline classes.
Online, everything your child learns is tracked. Coaches see how they’re doing, fix mistakes, and guide them forward. Parents get updates. Kids feel proud. And progress becomes something you can see—not just hope for.
How Global School of Chess Leads the Online Chess Training Landscape
Now, let’s talk about why Global School of Chess is at the very top of online chess learning—not just in Singapore, but globally.
We didn’t just move chess lessons online. We rebuilt the entire experience to make it better for today’s child. Better lessons. Better coaches. Better results.
A Real Classroom Experience—Without Leaving Home
Our classes are live, small, and full of energy. Coaches know every student by name. Kids feel welcome and involved. Each session includes strategy, puzzles, questions, and real-time games—all designed to keep students thinking and smiling.
We make learning feel personal, even through a screen.
Coaches Who Teach From the Heart
Our coaches are not just chess masters—they are mentors. They teach with kindness. They explain tough ideas in simple ways. And they truly want every child to succeed. We hire only FIDE-certified coaches who know how to work with kids.
This matters more than you think. Because children learn best when they feel cared for.
A Path That Works for Everyone
Whether your child is just starting out or already playing at a high level, we have a plan for them. Our curriculum begins with the basics and grows into advanced strategies. No rushing. No skipping. Just thoughtful, steady learning.
We place your child at the right level. Then we help them move forward—class by class, week by week.
A Global Community That Inspires
Our students come from all over the world. They learn together, play together, and cheer each other on. It’s beautiful to see. And it teaches kids that chess is more than a game—it’s a language that brings people together.
Your child will not only learn how to play. They’ll learn how to think. How to focus. How to believe in themselves.
Conclusion: Give Your Child a Smarter, Stronger Tomorrow
Every child has a spark inside them. A desire to think, explore, and grow. Chess is one of the few things in life that feeds that spark—helping kids become better thinkers, problem-solvers, and decision-makers.
In a place like Hillview, where learning is part of daily life, choosing the right chess academy can make a world of difference. And now you’ve seen why Global School of Chess is not just the best in Hillview—but the best place anywhere for your child to truly learn and grow.
We’re here to help your child fall in love with learning.
To help them stay calm under pressure.
To help them play, plan, and think smarter—on the board and in life.
👉 Join us now and take that first small, powerful step.
🎯 Click here to book your free trial class.
We can’t wait to meet your child—and show them just how smart and confident they can become.
Let’s make their next move their best move ever.