Chess lessons at Southbury, CT, and surrounding areas
Welcome to the Western Connecticut Chess Academy, where budding chess players come to learn, grow, and thrive! Our academy is a chess school that caters to students of all skill levels, offering private lessons and chess tournaments for both children ages 6-14 in Redding and Southbury, CT.
At Western Connecticut Chess Academy, our passion for chess is only matched by our commitment to offering high-quality chess education that’s inclusive for everyone that wants to learn. We’re fully dedicated to giving students the tools and training they need to boost their skills and confidence while having fun.

Meet Jim Santorelli
Jim Santorelli, is a nationally renowned authority on chess in education with over 30 years chess instruction experience whose passion for chess continues to help players to improve their skills and ability. Jim has successfully guided his students to 13 National Championships!
Chess Tournaments- At Western Connecticut Chess Academy, we also offer chess tournaments for children that will help students apply their skills, build confidence, and make new friends. Our tournaments are fun, inclusive and competitive, with players competing against others of similar skill levels, ensuring that each player’s experience is rewarding and fun throughout the entire event.
Aside from gaining confidence and building bonds with their peers, students also will develop a sense of responsibility and respect. We believe that chess tournaments go beyond teaching a mere game, but also important life lessons. And with 30 years of experience in both teaching and organizing children’s tournaments, we’re confident that our tournaments are designed to encourage all age groups and skill levels to participate.
Southbury Parks and Recreation: Chess by Western Connecticut Chess Academy: Ages 6+ (myrec.com)
Please view the two sample classes below:
CHOOSE A CHESS CLASS
Class placement is determined by age and chess experience. There’s an option for the absolute beginner (at least age 6) all the way to the tournament player. Review the material below to find out which level best suits your child or teen.
WCCA offers a variety of chess lessons based on your playing ability. Chess Classes are available for kindergarten, elementary school, junior high, high school and homeschool students.
PAWN – BEGINNER
Students will learn all the rules of chess and basic strategies.
KNIGHTS – ADVANCED BEGINNER
Students must have a playing knowledge of the game. They will learn advanced strategies and all aspects of tournament play.
ROOKS – INTERMEDIATE PLAYERS
“With chess, children can practice deductive reasoning and use it in day to day situations. The idea with increasing the number of curricular programs is to improve children’s critical thinking skills and analytical abilities.”
Playing Chess as a Tool in Learning
By Merri Rosenberg
Oct. 11, 1992
A USCF Expert, Jim emphasizes strategy and planning in his chess and in his well-prepared classroom lectures.
Jim Santorelli


Our proven approach to chess instruction is an excellent low cost, all age distancelearning activity aimed at improving your student’s personal best. Jim’s passion for chess continues to help players to improve their skills and ability. All ages welcome.
A key benefit of playing chess is that it improves focus which helps students in every area of study. Adding chess to the curriculum improves academic success. Each day, teachers look for new ways to get students excited about learning and new ways to help them retain the information they learn. In addition to educational advantages, students experience social growth and learn patience and sportsmanship.
TESTIMONIALS
Thank you for visiting and being a part of our fun and educational online chess lessons. Word of mouth is the key to our success. Prospective clients benefit from seeing positive reviews from satisfied clients like you. Your opinion matters to us and to other customers, so we really appreciate it when you take a few moments to provide a review of our services.
Why Choose Western Connecticut Chess Academy in Redding and Southbury, CT
Looking for a top-notch chess academy for your child? Look no further than Western Connecticut Chess Academy.
We’re committed to offering high-quality chess education and private lessons that teach children in a fun and interactive way. Instructor Jim Santorelli is experienced, knowledgeable, and passionate about the game, and his teaching techniques are effective and personal, leaving a long-lasting impression on every student.
Our private lessons are designed to give students individual attention that allows them to learn and progress at their own pace. Our coaches are patient, supportive, and encouraging, and our lessons are fun, competitive, and energized, ensuring that every player has an enjoyable experience, even while competing.
Western Connecticut Chess Academy is perfect for children who are passionate about chess and looking to learn, play, and improve their skills in a supportive environment. That’s because our goal is to help our students develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the game and in life.
So is your child ready to become a better chess player? Then Western Connecticut Chess Academy is ready for you!