Hi, my name is Thalia, and for 16 years I have played chess, going from knowing nothing about the game to representing England.
I have always enjoyed teaching chess, and have received excellent feedback over the years. Having been coached from an early age, I’ve developed a good understanding of how to help children of different abilities. I tailor my approach to the individual and can utilise various methods to enhance understanding, and overall strength in each aspect of this fascinating game.
Based in Chester, I will teach your children how to play, going from basic ideas such as how the pieces move, through to more advanced concepts such as how to play accurately without mistakes, how to create plans, how to win games and much, much more. See the rest of the site for information on who I am, what I can offer, my rates and contact information.
Book a lesson!
I also run a junior chess club in Chester, providing a friendly and engaging environment for players of all levels. Whether your child is completely new to the game or already have experience, the club is a great place to learn, improve, and enjoy chess with others. We focus on developing skills, strategic thinking, and, most importantly, having fun.
For more information, click here.
BBC's Chess Masters: The Endgame:
In 2025, I was proud to win BBC2’s Chess Masters: The Endgame, a national competition celebrating creative and practical chess skill. Competing against strong players from across the country, I demonstrated the strategic thinking and teaching principles I now bring to my coaching. Winning the show was an incredible experience, and I am excited to use what I learned to help my students grow their skills and love for the game.
About Me:
I began playing chess at the age of 4 in the midlands, and thanks to my local chess club, was able to move up the ranks quickly, firstly playing local tournaments aged 6 and then playing my first county match at 9 years old.
During this time, I competed in tournaments all over the country, almost every other weekend. Because of this, I have had the experience of being a very young person experiencing the chess world for the first time, through to an experienced tournament competitor with many ups and downs along the way!
After much hard work and practice, In 2014 aged 10, I broke through into the England set up, representing the team on Board 2 against Wales. Further success in 2016 in the Stokes Cup in a team against the likes of France and Ireland cemented a place within the England Chess Federation (ECF) International Chess Academy training program. At this time, I left the chess sphere to focus on my studies, however I never left the world entirely.
Returning in 2019 after a phenomenal game where I was able to defeat a master online, my interest in the game quickly peaked again. I began doing local lessons in my hometown, competing for my club again in late 2021 with a very solid record of 20 wins, 19 draws, and only 10 losses, becoming a respectable 1832 rated ECF player, and reaching an online peak rating of 2164.
In late 2023 I moved to study History at the University of Chester, and I am currently completing studies in my second year. Although studies have overtaken chess as a matter of urgency, I always make time to play online, with my online chess account having over 4500 rapid (10 min+) games played. Now I would like to be able to teach others in the local area how to play, so are able to go on and spread the knowledge of the game that has been such an integral part of me since childhood.
Favourite Games:
Danny Griffiths 0-1 Thalia Holmes, 17/01/23, Newport Club Championship Game 5:
Richard Bryant 0-1 Thalia Holmes, 15/10/22, Crewe Chess Congress Game 2:
Thalia Holmes 1-0 MizgirevPV, 09/11/21, Chess.com Online Rapid:
Prices:
Standard pricing:
- £40 per lesson (£20 per additional person)
Chess Masters: The Endgame Offer:
- First time players; £10 for first lesson
Larger groups / school clubs TBC
FAQ's:
- Where are the lessons held?
- What ages are the lessons suitable for?
- What things do I need before you come?
- Can I contact you with any other questions?
Lessons will be primarily held at a mutual venue in town, usually using the Storyhouse theatre as a meeting place.
I try and make my lessons accessible to anyone. I focus on teaching children as that is where I fostered my love for the game, but have taught people from 6 to 70 years old, however I have been learning since I was 4 so I try and aim these lessons towards everyone.
I will bring the chess board and pieces along with me, along with any additional things that might be needed such as chess clocks and pen and paper for illustrative purposes. Unless there is any specific requirement your child needs, there should be nothing that you need to provide, however a space where I can place my bike other than outside the front of the house would be ideal.
Yes, go ahead! My email is below so please feel free to send me some questions!
Booking:
Redirect to booking siteContact Me:
Email:thaliaholmes1@gmail.com
Instagram:@thaliachesster
Facebook:ThaliaChesster
YouTube:ThaliaChesster