Roots in the Community: Art, Heritage & Chess in Surbiton and New Malden

Roots in the Community: Art, Heritage & Chess in Surbiton and New Malden

At Surbiton Junior Chess (powered by Jolly Good Chess), we believe that a great club is deeply woven into the fabric of its local community. Our connection to Surbiton, New Malden, and the wider Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames isn't just about where we play it is personal, creative, and rooted in a local family legacy.

A Legacy of Design: Adrian Merchant Studios

Our roots in this area are deeply personal. The founder of Surbiton Junior Chess grew up immersed in the local creative scene, watching her father operate the renowned Adrian Merchant Studios in New Malden.

Many local residents will recognize the lasting impact of his work on our daily surroundings most  notably the New Malden fountain, the iconic centerpiece of the New Malden roundabout. That sculpture, brought to life by Adrian Merchant Studios, remains a testament to the importance of craftsmanship, vision, and contributing something meaningful to the place you call home.

Crafting Skills, Move by Move

We carry forward that same tradition of dedication and local pride in everything we do at our club. Much like a sculptor carefully shapes public art to stand the test of time, our coaching philosophy focuses on:

Patience and Structure: We provide the guidance necessary for children to build their tactical thinking and strategic awareness, move by move.
Building Community: Just as public landmarks anchor a neighborhood, we aim to be a welcoming hub where local families from Surbiton, New Malden, and beyond connect and grow.

A Lasting Impact: We are committed to nurturing the next generation of thinkers, helping them develop confidence and resilience that lasts far beyond the chessboard.

Connecting Our Neighborhoods

We are proud to serve families across the borough, providing a seamless bridge for young minds to develop their potential. Whether your child is joining us from Surbiton or New Malden, our programs offer:

Expert Local Coaching: Professional instruction delivered with a personal, community-focused touch, right here in the heart of Surbiton.
A Proven Pathway: We help children transition smoothly from beginner lessons into competitive club play and official ECF-rated tournaments.
Inclusive Excellence: We believe every child deserves the opportunity to learn, regardless of their starting level.

We love our community, and we are proud to provide a space where local children can build lifelong confidence, critical thinking skills, and lasting friendships.

Join Our Chess Community

We welcome players of all levels from those making their first move to aspiring tournament competitors.

Ready to start? Join us for a taster session and see why Surbiton Junior Chess is the premier choice for families in the area.