NZCF Online Chess School

As part of its commitment to developing and promoting chess in New Zealand, the NZCF is now offering a new program of online chess lessons.

While a number of seminars have been held in recent years, the newly appointed Directors, Gordon Lyall and Richie Christie, are expanding this initiative and look forward to delivering high-quality training opportunities for players of all levels.

UPCOMING COURSES OR LESSONS

PREVIOUS COURSES OR LESSONS

Enhance Your Chess Coaching 
(Mar 2026)

This two-lesson course is designed for chess trainers, coaches, and schoolteachers. It introduces key educational principles, shows how to apply them when preparing players for success in competitive chess, and concludes with practical advice on professional development.

Presented by FIDE Trainer Tony Dowden

Calculation Fundamentals – From Ideas to Moves 
(Feb/Mar 2026)

Strategy tells you what you want to do; calculation tells you whether you can do it.

Good calculation turns ideas into results.. It reduces blunders, improves decision-making in critical positions, strengthens both attack and defence, and allows players to convert advantages with confidence. Strong calculation replaces hope with certainty and is essential for accurate tactics, endgames, and overall improvement.

Join FIDE Instructor Ishan Wiratunga for a practical online course designed for player 1200-1600 who are keen to take their game to the next level. 

Master key calculation concepts:

• Learn a structured thinking process for evaluating moves

• Strengthen visualisation and board awareness

• Spot tactical triggers: checks, captures, threats

• Efficiently eliminate weak lines to focus calculation

• Manage time and energy during games

• Apply calculation in endgames and defensive positions