TESTIMONIALS
Our pupils and families are at the heart of Elements Chess Academy. Their feedback reflects the confidence, enjoyment, focus, and sense of belonging we aim to build through every lesson.
These comments share real experiences from our chess clubs, showing how structured learning, supportive teaching, and regular practice can help pupils grow both on and beyond the chessboard.
" Since joining the chess club, my son has grown so much in patience, resilience, and self-discipline. The thoughtful guidance from Mr Soykir has helped him stay focused and motivated, even when facing challenges. I’ve seen his confidence improve both in chess and in other areas of life. It’s been a truly positive experience. "
Parent from Ravenbank Primary School
" Being part of the chess club has been a wonderful experience for my son. What he enjoyed the most was spending time with friends who shared his love for the game. He always looked forward to the matches, the laughs, and the chance to challenge himself each week.
What he found most valuable was how much he learned from the lessons and game reviews. His teacher, Mr Soykir, was especially helpful, always patient, encouraging, and willing to explain new ideas in a way that made the game even more exciting. Those moments not only improved his chess skills but also taught him patience, focus, and how to see challenges from different angles.
I’m proud of the progress he’s made and grateful for the support and guidance he’s received in the chess club. It has given him confidence, resilience, and a true love for the game. "
Parent from Oughtrington Primary School
" My 7-year-old absolutely loves learning and playing chess with the Academy! As a complete novice, he has gone on to learn strategic thinking, critical reasoning, as well as learning how to be a good loser. This is consistently shown in his school reports, in which his teachers comment on his developed thinking skills and ability to assess a task with reason and forethought.
The highlight for him was to be able to take part in chess activities across Liverpool city centre, under the watchful eye of a Very Important Person! "
Parent from Oughtrington Primary School
" Our children have developed a great love of chess through attending Elements Chess Academy, and they've blown us away with their deep understanding of the game - they far outclass us as players now. We love that they understand the strategies behind chess and the way it teaches them patience, forward planning, and problem-solving. Attending the chess club also gives them time out of their busy weeks to sit and absorb themselves in a complicated game, but contained in a safe space, where help and support are always available, away from screens. I would highly recommend this to other parents for their children of all ages. "
Parent from Oughtrington Primary School
" Elements Chess Academy is a fun way to learn all the different aspects of the game of chess. It has helped me to learn simple principles of the game, such as how to play and move your pieces. As well as simple mechanics, we also learned openings & tactics. Every week, I do a grandmaster challenge, allowing me to think like a professional. We do learning, and then we play with chessboards. We get points if you win and tie (stalemate). If we get points, we can “level up”: Pawn, Knight, Bishop, Rook, Queen & King. I enjoy and understand chess more and more every week. I appreciate how much effort Mr Soykir puts into our lessons, making them more fun and enjoyable. I love playing chess!!! "
Student from Ravenbank Primary School