Stage 4 Learning Outcomes

Our "Stage 4" Squad is suitable for students ranging from 750 - 1350 rating points.

These students are taught at another whole new level focussing on long-term strategic play. The "Stage 4" Programme provides continuity for the students that have completed the "Stage 3" Programme but also offers an option for already strong chess players that are regularly participating in a local chess club and open tournaments (4+ years).

By the end of the "Stage 4" program you should expect to have learned:

Openings

Openings & Middle-Game

Be able to understand and implement typical middle-game plans in the following complex openings:

  • Caro-Kann Defence

  • Pirc Defence

  • Alekhine's Defence

  • Scandanavian Defence

As part of this study we will look at typical middle-game plans and the correct strategies for both White and Black.

Attacking

Attacking

Progressing from elementary tactics and combinations to studying methods for attacking with various piece combinations:

  • Destroying the castled position
  • Attacking the king
  • 'Minor' tactics
  • Trapping pieces
  • Calculating short variations
  • Blocking combinations
  • Removing the defence
  • Line clearing
  • Blockade
  • Dragging the king out

Strategy

Strategy Foundation

Continuing the foundation work from Stages 2 & 3, students will further their strategical understanding of Chess with more advanced concepts:

  • Planning in chess
  • Exchanging
  • Priorities and typical mistakes when calculating variations
  • Time in the opening
  • Improving the position of your pieces
  • Closed openings
  • Preventing counterplay
  • Using a lead in development
  • Exploiting weaknesses

Endgames

Endgames

Develop practical endgame skills in the following endgames:

  • Advanced Pawn endings
  • Bishop endings
  • Knight endings
  • Rook against Knight endings