Frequently Asked

Common
Questions.

Everything parents, students, and schools typically ask before getting started with ReelChess. Contact us directly if your question is not answered here — we respond within 24 hours, usually much faster.

What age do you start coaching from?+

We typically start from age 5. Kindergarten age children can absolutely learn chess — they are not too young. We work with students from their very first lesson through to competitive tournament play.

Does my child need their own chess set?+

No. We provide absolutely everything — chess sets, boards, timers, and all materials. Your child just needs to show up.

For online sessions all you need is a device with a camera and internet connection.

What is your missed session policy?+

Our policy varies slightly by program type, but the general approach is:

  • No refunds for missed sessions once a term has commenced
  • If you notify us in advance, we can offer a pro-rata adjustment where appropriate
  • Make-up sessions are not guaranteed — they depend on availability
  • Students joining partway through a term receive a reduced pro-rata fee

We always do our best to be flexible and fair while maintaining the structure of our programs.

My child has never played — is that okay?+

Absolutely. Many of our students start with zero chess knowledge. Our True Beginners Saturday group is specifically designed for students who have never touched a chess piece.

No experience needed for any program. We assess every student and place them in the right group.

How does payment work?+

Students enrol and pay through our booking portal. We accept:

  • Credit and debit card via Stripe
  • Bank transfer
  • PayPal

Pro-rata fees apply for mid-term enrolments.

What do students receive in the program?+

Every student receives:

  • Structured coaching with progressive curriculum
  • Video resources and lesson recaps after sessions
  • Progress tracking throughout the term
  • Certificate on completing development milestones
  • Regular feedback for parents

The first printed certificate is Gold. Bronze and Silver are digital — all formally recognised by schools.

Can chess help with scholarships?+

Yes. Many of our students have obtained high school scholarships using ReelChess as a reference.

Do not hesitate to reach out if you need something personal written, especially if your child is excelling. We are happy to provide letters of support and documentation of achievement.

How does chess develop problem solving?+

Chess is one of the most direct problem solving training tools available. Every move requires analysis, calculation, and decision making under time pressure.

  • Break complex problems into manageable parts
  • Pattern recognition — spotting opportunities others miss
  • Multi-step calculation and logical deduction
  • Adaptability when plans do not work out
  • Confidence in independent decision making
Read the full Benefits of Chess guide →
What are the key benefits of chess?+

Chess develops ten core skills:

  • Critical thinking and analytical reasoning
  • Focus and sustained concentration
  • Strategic planning and long term thinking
  • Resilience and growth mindset
  • Mathematical thinking and pattern recognition
  • Confidence through structured achievement
  • Creativity and innovation
  • Time management under pressure
  • Social skills and sportsmanship
  • Memory and pattern recognition
Read the full Benefits of Chess guide →
Do you run tournaments and holiday programs?+

Yes to both. ReelChess runs open tournaments, interschool tournaments, and in-school tournaments throughout the year.

We also run holiday online programs during school breaks — a great way to keep improving between terms.

What are the school program fees?+

School programs start from $20 + GST per student for a standard one hour session, $30 + GST for 90 minutes, and $15 + GST for lunchtime sessions. Terms are typically 8 to 10 weeks.

Contact us to discuss your school →
How do I contact ReelChess directly?+

Reach us through any of the following:

  • Contact form at reelchess.com/contact/
  • Phone: +61 402 769 387
  • General: admin@reelchess.com
  • Schools: schools@reelchess.com

We respond within 24 hours — usually much faster.

Still have a question? We are happy to help.

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