A beginner-friendly introduction to skating
Learn to Skate is designed for skaters with little or no previous skating experience. This program helps skaters become comfortable and confident on the ice while learning the basic skills needed to begin skating independently.
Skaters will work on introductory skills such as:
Getting comfortable standing and moving on the ice
Balance and stability
Gliding
Stopping
Turning and changing direction
Falling safely and getting back up
The goal is to build a strong foundation of skating skills in a fun and supportive environment. As skaters develop confidence and basic skating abilities, they can progress into CanSkate.
Skate Canada’s foundational learn-to-skate program
CanSkate is a nationally recognized Skate Canada program designed to teach skaters the fundamental skills of skating. Skaters develop balance, control, agility and coordination through a variety of skating activities and games.
The skills learned in CanSkate provide a strong foundation for many skating activities, including:
Figure skating
Hockey
Ringette
Speed skating
Recreational skating
Skaters progress through the CanSkate stages as they develop their skills. Coaches will help identify when a skater is ready to move into the next stage or begin exploring a more specialized skating pathway.
Skaters who are interested in figure skating may eventually progress from CanSkate into STARSkate.
For STAR 1–4 skaters and skaters transitioning from CanSkate
The Preliminary STARSkate session is designed for skaters who are beginning their STARSkate journey, primarily those working within STAR 1 through STAR 4.
This session provides skaters with additional opportunities to develop their skating skills while working toward continued progression through the STARSkate program. Depending on their readiness and individual development, CanSkate 5/6 skaters may also be placed in this session as they transition toward STARSkate.
Skaters may work on areas such as:
Skating skills and edge control
Turns and transitions
Jumps and spins
Balance, control and skating quality
STARSkate assessment requirements
Building confidence and independence on the ice
For STAR 5+ skaters
The STARSkate session is designed primarily for skaters working at STAR 5 and above who are continuing to develop and advance their skating skills.
With additional ice time, skaters have the opportunity to further develop their technical skills, skating quality and performance abilities while continuing their progression through the STARSkate program.
Depending on the skater’s goals and level, training may include:
Advanced skating skills and edge work
Jumps and spins
Program development
Performance and presentation skills
STARSkate assessments
Continued preparation for future skating opportunities and pathways
Our goal is to place each skater in the session that best matches their current skills and development.
Session placement is based on the skater’s assessment, skill level, progress and readiness. Movement between sessions is determined by the coaches’ discretion and may occur when a skater is ready for a different level of challenge.
Completing a specific level does not automatically mean a skater will move sessions. Coaches will determine the most appropriate placement to support each skater’s continued progress.