Chris Russell

COACHING CO-ORDINATOR

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COACHING CO-ORDINATOR

Chris Russell

London Lessons Online Lessons

Chris is a highly experienced chess coach, qualified as both a FIDE Instructor and at Level 3 under the English Chess Federation’s Registered Coaches Scheme. He is also a certified ECF and FIDE National Arbiter. As a former British Under-16 Champion, Chris reached a peak international (FIDE) rating of 2207 and a national (ECF) rating of 2335.

Before becoming a full-time chess coach, Chris worked for five years as a secondary school maths teacher in Bristol, during which time he completed an MSc in Education. Since returning to London in 2017, he has taught chess in schools, at Chess Rising Stars camps , Adult Improvers online classes and the Chelsea Chess Club.

As the founding coach of our Elite Chess Club, Chris has supported the development of the strongest junior players at Chess Rising Stars. His students’ accomplishments include competing in both the European Youth Individual and Team Championships. Elite Club members have reached 2000+ ECF standardplay ratings, competed in the Terafinal of the UK Chess Challenge and won gold at both the EJCOA National Youth Finals and London Junior Chess Championships Finals.

“Studying chess with Chris is packed with analysis, insight, inspiration and positive encouragement through the highs and lows of assimilating a complex game. I really appreciate his focus on developing deep skills for long-term growth … and the benefit of lessons extends beyond the board into other aspects of life.”

“While working with Chris, I have had the chance to experience the multifaceted richness of chess. Chris pays attention to the deep knowledge chess requires and the beauty of the game … a good mentor and helpful teacher.”