Inspiring young minds through chess
Fun, friendly one-to-one and small-group lessons from home. Your child learns to think ahead, stay patient and enjoy every game, with an experienced coach.
More than a game
Chess builds skills that help children at school and beyond, and at Chess Sparks we make sure it's fun from the very first lesson.
Thinking skills
Builds critical thinking: weighing up options, planning ahead and solving problems.
Patience & resilience
Learning to win well, lose well, and try again.
Confidence
Clear progress your child can see, with every new skill celebrated.
Fun first
Puzzles, games and friendly challenges keep kids excited to come back.
Getting started is easy
Lessons take place in our own online classroom, with a live chessboard and video built in. There's nothing to install, and it works in your web browser.
Book a free trial
Send a message using the form below and we'll find a time that suits you.
Meet the coach
A relaxed 30-minute session to see your child's level and what they enjoy.
Weekly lessons
Live lessons in the Chess Sparks online classroom, one-to-one or in a small group.
Practise & progress
Fun puzzles and homework between lessons, with progress you can follow.
Simple, honest pricing
All lessons are live and online. Choose single lessons, or save with a Monthly Plan of four lessons.
1-to-1 lessons
Personal coaching at your child's pace
- A lesson plan made for your child
- Puzzles and homework between lessons
- Regular progress updates for parents
Monthly Plan
4 one-to-one lessons, once a week
- Everything in 1-to-1 lessons
- The same weekly slot, reserved for you
- The steadiest way to improve
Small groups
4–6 children at a similar level
- Learn and play alongside other kids
- Team puzzles and friendly mini-tournaments
- Billed monthly
Hi, I'm Joshua Daplyn
I'm a 2200-rated chess player and I've been coaching for four years. I set up Chess Sparks to give children and beginners a fun, patient and encouraging place to learn the game I love.
Every child learns differently, so I adapt each lesson to their level and personality. We use puzzles, games and stories to make sure the ideas stick. Most of all, I want every student to leave a lesson excited to play again.
I have experience teaching neurodivergent children, including children with ADHD and autism. I'm happy to adapt lessons to suit how your child learns best, for example with shorter activities, a clear routine or breaks when needed.
I hold an enhanced DBS check, and parents are always welcome to sit in on lessons.
Frequently asked questions
What age can my child start?
Most children are ready from around age 5 or 6. No experience is needed: we'll teach them what each piece is and how it moves, right from the start. Adult beginners are welcome too.
Do you teach neurodivergent children?
Yes. I have experience working with neurodivergent children, including those with ADHD and autism. Let me know a little about your child when you get in touch, and I'll shape the lessons around what works best for them. One-to-one lessons are often the most comfortable place to start.
My child has never played. Is that OK?
Absolutely. Chess Sparks is built for complete beginners. We start with how the pieces move and build up step by step.
What do we need for online lessons?
A laptop, desktop or tablet with a camera and microphone, and a good internet connection. Lessons run in your web browser, so there's nothing to install.
How do online lessons work?
Lessons take place in the Chess Sparks online classroom, which has a live chessboard and video call built in. Your child gets their own login to join lessons, solve puzzles and play practice games.
Can I watch the lessons?
Yes. Parents are always welcome to sit in, especially with younger children.
How do I pay?
Payment details are shared after your free trial. Single lessons are paid in advance, and Monthly Plans and group lessons are paid monthly.
What if we need to cancel or reschedule?
Just give at least 24 hours' notice and we'll move the lesson to another time.
Book your free trial lesson
Fill in the form and I'll reply within 24 hours to arrange a time. You can also email or WhatsApp me if you prefer.