Completely new to chess?
Start with the board and pieces. We'll explain everything as we go.
Begin at lesson oneWELCOME TO FINDING YOUR SQUARE
There's a place for everyone in chess.
Whether you're learning your first moves, developing your skills, or discovering what it's like to play face-to-face, find lessons and practical exercises that work for you.
Free lessons · No sign-in needed · Learn at your own pace
CHOOSE WHAT YOU NEED
You don't have to start in the same place.
Follow the lessons from the beginning, or explore a subject that interests you.
Already know the basics?
Explore board vision, Capture Challenges and the topics you want to practise.
Browse all modulesCurious about playing with others?
Our growing course will also explore clubs, clocks, notation and over-the-board chess.
More guidance plannedHOW WE TEACH
Understand it. See it. Try it.
Clear explanations, interactive chessboards and practical challenges help you build understanding at a pace that suits you.
Straightforward, beginner-friendly explanations
Interactive boards and Capture Challenges
Knowledge Checks and Club Player Tips
EXPLORE THE FOUNDATIONS
4 lessons ready to explore.
Begin with the chessboard or jump into a lesson that interests you.
LESSON 0119 min
Getting to Know the Chessboard
Learn how the board is arranged, name its squares and recognise the starting position.
Explore lessonLESSON 0218 min
How Pawns Move
Learn how pawns advance, capture and defend, then practise thinking ahead.
Explore lessonLESSON 0322 min
Rooks, Open Lines and Board Vision
Learn to see a rook's ranks and files, spot blocked lines and discover how two rooks can protect each other.
Explore lessonLESSON 0422 min
Knight Jumps and Board Vision
Learn the knight's L-shaped jump, see the squares it attacks and practise planning a few jumps ahead.
Explore lesson