Canada boasts a vibrant chess community, with numerous academies offering top-notch training for players of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the basics or an experienced player aiming to refine your competitive edge, these institutions provide the perfect environment to foster your chess abilities. From online platforms led by Grandmasters to local academies with a focus on youth development, the options are diverse. In this blog, we’ve compiled the top 10 chess academies in Canada, each offering unique programs and personalized coaching to help you improve your game and enjoy the intellectual challenge of chess.
1. Chess Gaja
Chess Gaja Private Limited is a leading online chess academy for all student levels and ages led by GrandMaster and FIDE trainer Priyadharshan Kannappan.
Chess Gaja employs highly accomplished, FIDE-rated coaches. If you are looking for high-quality lessons in a guided manner where a student can come in as an absolute beginner and will be handheld all the way to GrandMaster level, then Chess Gaja is the right choice.
What makes Chess Gaja stand out from its competitors, to understand that, have a look at the video of the benefits of joining Chess Gaja.
Benefits of learning with Chess Gaja
- Coaches of all rating levels
- We use Learning Management System (LMS) software to enable prompt feedback in classes, receive mobile notifications, and facilitate easier tracking of class attendance.
- Monthly parent-teacher meeting with GM Priyadharshan
- Students of all ages
- Exclusive student newsletter
- Worked with 6 national champions
- Study Schedule will be provided
- Multiple academy tournaments in a month
- Dedicated WhatsApp customer support
- Chess book/Software suggestions will be provided
- 150+ Students from 18+ countries
- Coaches who take the starter classes will also take the actual classes as you continue.
As Chess Gaja is an online company, you can take the classes from the comfort of your home, at a time of your convenience, without having to worry about traveling long distances to learn the game. The value you get from taking classes at Chess Gaja is unparalleled because of the many factors mentioned above.
Contact form: https://chessgaja.com/contactnew/
2. Chess Institute of Canada (CIC)
Located in Toronto, CIC is one of Canada’s leading chess institutions, offering a wide variety of chess programs for children and adults alike. With a focus on fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and social interaction, CIC provides group classes, individual lessons, and tournaments. The institution is known for promoting chess education as a tool for youth development, and its welcoming environment makes it a top choice for chess enthusiasts.
Contact:
Address: 918 Bathurst Street Toronto, ON M5R 3G5.
Facebook: Chess Institute of Canada
3. Chess Academy of Canada
The Chess Academy of Canada, based in Thornhill, Ontario, provides lessons under the guidance of highly experienced coaches. With a strong emphasis on developing competitive players, the academy offers group classes, private lessons, and organizes regular tournaments. Their curriculum is designed for players of all ages and skill levels, making it a popular choice in the region.
Contact:
Address: 7300 Yonge St. Suite 409 Thornhill, Ontario L4J 7Y5
Phone: (905) 709-8611
Email: romanpelts@chessacademycanada.com
4. Vancouver Chess School
Vancouver Chess School offers a comprehensive chess education program for children and adults. With both in-person and online learning options, the school provides structured lessons, tournaments, and chess camps. Their team of dedicated instructors helps students progress rapidly, making it one of the top chess academies in British Columbia.
Contact:
Address: 312-2083 Alma St, Vancouver, BC V6R4N6
Phone: (604) 568-3283
Email: info@vanchess.ca
5. Kanata Chess Academy
Located in Kanata, Ontario, Kanata Chess Academy offers a variety of programs designed to foster both recreational and competitive play. Whether through group lessons or private coaching, students benefit from expert instruction and a supportive chess community. The academy organize frequent tournaments and events to help players sharpen their skills.
Contact:
Address: 79 Shirley’s Brook Dr, Kanata, ON K2K 3M8
Phone: (613) 868-2351
Email: kanatachess@gmail.com
6. Fraser Valley Chess Academy
Fraser Valley Chess Academy, located in Langley, BC, provides high quality chess coaching for students of all ages. With experienced instructors and a commitment to building a solid chess foundation, the academy offers group lessons, private instruction, and competitive tournaments to help players of all levels improve their game.
Contact:
Address: 20486 64 Ave Unit 108, Langley, BC V2Y 1N4
Phone: (778) 558-3796
Email: info@fraservalleychess.com
7. Chess with Mr. S
Chess with Mr. S is a popular chess academy in Markham, Ontario, offering classes for children and young players. Known for its engaging teaching methods, the academy combines fun and learning to help children develop strategic thinking and problem-solving skills. The academy also offers online lessons for convenience.
Contact:
Address: 50 Lockridge Ave U14, Markham, ON L3R 7R6
Phone: (416) 456-1599
Email: info@chesswithmrs.com
8. Bishop Chess Academy
Bishop Chess Academy provides high-quality chess coaching in a personalized setting. With experienced coaches, the academy offers tailored lessons to help students achieve rapid improvement. Known for a strong focus on tournament preparation, the academy is a great choice for competitive players looking to reach the next level.
Contact:
Phone: (613) 263-4977
Email: samesharifi@gmail.com
9. King’s Knight Canada Chess Club
Located in Markham, Ontario, King’s Knight Canada Chess Club is a community centered chess organization offering classes, tournaments, and social chess events. The club welcomes players of all ages and skill levels and provides a supportive environment for learning and improving one’s chess abilities.
Contact:
Address: St Andrew’s United Church, 32 Main Street Markham N, Markham, ON L3P 1X5
Phone: (416) 806-8055
10. Smart Kids Chess
Smart Kids Chess is dedicated to teaching young players through structured lessons and engaging activities. Located in Thornhill, Ontario, the academy focuses on early development and cognitive skills enhancement through chess. With both group and individual lessons, Smart Kids Chess ensures that every student receives the attention they need to excel.
Contact:
Address: 2900 Steeles Ave E Unit 202, Thornhill, ON L3T 4X1
Phone: (647) 970-2242
Email: learn@smartkidschess.com
Joining a chess academy in a group setting provides numerous advantages for aspiring players. The combination of structured lessons and personalized coaching, along with the shared enthusiasm of fellow participants, promotes both skill development and a deeper love for the game. Being part of such an environment enhances learning through camaraderie and support, creating a sense of community. This shared journey not only sharpens chess abilities but also fosters personal growth and a stronger appreciation for the game.