Chess has quietly become one of the most powerful learning tools for children today. It improves focus, discipline, problem-solving, and confidence — qualities every parent hopes to build early. With this rising interest, choosing the “right” chess academy has become a thoughtful decision rather than a quick one.
Two academies often appear in these conversations: ChessGurukul and WACA (Westbridge Anand Chess Academy).
Both are respected. Both have produced strong young players. And both have very different teaching environments.
This blog gives you a clear, unbiased comparison so you can choose what fits your child’s learning style.
Academy Overview
ChessGurukul has built a strong reputation with its competitive training atmosphere and an experienced team of titled and professional coaches. The academy focuses on helping children progress quickly through structured lessons that encourage active thinking, sharp calculation, and early exposure to competitive ideas.
WACA, supported by an advisory role from former World Champion Viswanathan Anand, has a different personality. The academy’s curriculum reflects a calm, steady, concept-driven learning style. WACA is appealing to parents who prefer a more structured environment where the focus is on long-term understanding rather than rushing through complex theory.
Both academies have grown because parents trust what they offer — but they offer different experiences.
Teaching Philosophy: Fast-Paced Learning vs Structured Growth
One of the biggest differences between these academies is how they teach.
In ChessGurukul, classes move quickly. Children solve puzzles, explore attacking ideas, and are encouraged to think actively during every session. The pace suits students who enjoy constant challenges and can handle fast transitions between topics. Many kids find this environment exciting because it feels like real training.
WACA moves at a steadier rhythm. Lessons are taught with more emphasis on clarity, pattern understanding, and step-by-step development. Children get time to internalise concepts before moving ahead. This structured approach reduces confusion and builds confidence, especially in younger or newer learners.
Both philosophies work well — the key question is: Which one aligns better with your child’s way of learning?
Coaching Style and Classroom Experience
A child’s experience in class can vary significantly between the two academies.
ChessGurukul sessions often feel energetic. Coaches introduce ideas quickly, ask students to solve positions on the spot, and keep the group engaged with challenging examples. Children who enjoy fast activity, tactical play, and dynamic positions usually respond well to this teaching style.
WACA’s classes feel more organised and predictable. A topic is introduced, explained with examples, revisited in the next class, and finally reinforced through puzzles and short games. This cycle helps children build a strong foundation and prevents them from feeling overwhelmed.
Both styles are effective — but they serve different temperaments.
Batch Size and Individual Attention
Batch size plays a big role in how much attention a child receives.
ChessGurukul usually has slightly larger groups. The advantage is that children get more peers to play with and more exposure to different styles. But in bigger groups, personalised feedback during class may naturally be limited.
WACA typically maintains smaller batches. Coaches have more time to observe each student, correct mistakes, and guide them individually. For children who are sensitive or need reassurance, this environment can be very supportive.
Learning Tools and Study Format
Both academies teach online, but their class design is different.
ChessGurukul focuses on high-interaction sessions where children solve tactical problems and practise variations frequently. Notes and assignments are shared to reinforce learning at home.
WACA offers a more structured format with lesson plans, live explanations, revision cycles, and consistent tracking. Children know what to expect each week, which helps them absorb concepts more easily.
Tournaments: Early Exposure vs Prepared Participation
Tournament culture is another key difference.
ChessGurukul encourages early tournament participation. Many of their students gain FIDE ratings quickly because they are pushed to play competitive events from the start. This works wonderfully for children who enjoy challenges and thrive under pressure.
WACA also supports tournament participation, but children usually enter competitions after gaining stable understanding. The goal is not just to play events but to ensure the child feels mentally prepared. This approach often leads to steady, consistent performance without early burnout.
Rating Improvement Approach
The rate at which children gain ratings also depends on teaching style.
Students who already understand the basics may progress faster with ChessGurukul because of the academy’s tactical intensity and early exposure to competitive ideas.
Students who need time to build confidence often improve steadily with WACA because the focus is on strong foundations, not quick jumps.
Both academies have success stories — they simply follow different paths to reach them.
Parent Communication and Progress Updates
Parents often want clarity on how their child is improving.
WACA is generally more structured in communication. Progress is shared through regular checkpoints and consistent updates, which helps parents stay informed.
ChessGurukul also provides feedback, but the frequency and detail often depend on the coach and batch structure. Some parents prefer this flexible style, especially when they are more focused on tournament results than reports.
Pricing and Value
Without discussing specific numbers, the overall value of each academy can be understood.
ChessGurukul tends to be slightly higher in the advanced levels, especially for competitive training. Parents looking for high-intensity coaching often find this justified.
WACA is generally considered good value for beginners and intermediate players because of its structured learning model and steady growth pattern.
Final Thoughts: Which Academy Is Better for Your Child?
There is no single winner.
There is only the best match for your child’s personality.
If your child loves puzzles, enjoys quick challenges, and thrives in a competitive environment, ChessGurukul will feel like the right fit.
If your child prefers structured lessons, needs time to internalise concepts, and benefits from steady development, WACA will be more suitable.
Both academies contribute positively to the chess world. Choosing the right one depends on how your child learns best, not just on the academy’s reputation.
Our Point of View
At Kingdom of Chess, we believe parents should compare options carefully. Every child is unique, and the best academy is the one where the child feels supported, confident, and motivated.
We respect the work done by both ChessGurukul and WACA. Their teaching styles have helped shape many strong young players, and they have contributed greatly to the chess ecosystem.Our own approach at Kingdom of Chess blends small batches, story-based learning, certified coaches, weekly improvement tracking, and global online chess classes for children aged 4 to 15. The aim is simple — help children fall in love with the game and grow steadily at their own pace.
