Learn to Skate Programs –

PreCanSkate (ages 3 – 5 and those who need assistance on the ice)

This Skate Canada national level program is taught in skating clubs across the country. The CanSkate program was developed by experts to teach the fundamentals of skating in a fun, progressive manner. Designed for beginners of all ages, the focus is on fun, participation and basic skill development. Strong skating skills are the foundation of anyone wishing to further themselves in Hockey and Ringette. Skaters are taught in a group lesson format by National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) certified professional coaches, assisted by trained Program Assistants. Skaters are assessed constantly so there is no holding back – if your skater is ready to progress to the next level, they are moved up immediately so they can continue to perfect their skills and learn new ones. Skaters must be a minimum of age 3 in order to register for PreCanSkate.

PreCanSkate is aimed at learning to skate through play. Skaters at this age learn best through fun play. This program includes promoting an enjoyment and love of skating for young skaters.

Parent and Tot (ages 3 – 4 and those who need assistance on the ice)

Parent and Tot is a program for those skaters that may need a little more reassurance by having a parent or caregiver on the ice with them. For some young skaters, skating can at first seem big and overwhelming. Sometimes parental/caregiver support on the ice helps the skater adjust to skating. The skater may easily transition at any time to the PreCanSkate program.

This program is the same as PreCanSkate, but with a familiar support person on the ice. All skaters on the ice, including the support person, are required to wear a CSA approved hockey helmet. The support person will need to be registered with Skate Canada for insurance purposes, so additional fees are required for this program.

CanSkate (ages 5 and up)

Intro to Skating (Rising Stars) Program

This program is designed for those skaters who would like to transition from CanSkate into figure skating. Skaters are introduced to skills in Figure Skating disciplines such as Skating Skills, Dance, and Freeskate. Skaters in CanSkate Level 3 and up may continue in CanSkate or try the Intro to Skating program. Here skaters will learn the importance of turns, edges, and stroking, will learn set pattern dances, and will learn freeskate jumps and spins. Throughout the year, there will be several opportunities to test these skills. Information about assessment of skills will be made available to StarSkaters. Skaters are taught in a group format with an NCCP certified coach, with ample opportunity for self-practice.

StarSkate Program

This program is designed for those skaters who wish to further their skills in Figure Skating disciplines such as Skating Skills, Dance, and Freeskate. Here skaters will learn the importance of turns, edges, and stroking, will learn set pattern dances, and will learn freeskate jumps and spins. Throughout the year, there will be several opportunities to test these skills. Information about assessment of skills will be made available to StarSkaters. Skaters are taught in a group format with an NCCP certified coach, with ample opportunity for self-practice.

NEWFall Intro to Skating and StarSkate Program for Returning Skaters

This program is designed for those skaters who wish to get a head start on the skating season. The aim is for skaters at the CanSkate Level 3 and higher - through to StarSkate. If unsure of level, please contact coach Trudy Field prior to registering for this program.