FIGURE SKATING
The Pathway to Success in Figure Skating
1. Learn to Skate
CanSkate Stages 1-6 | Ages 5-12
Learn to Skate (CanSkate) teaches a series of balance, control, and agility skills designed to prepare skaters for all ice sports requiring skates, as well as recreational skating. Our program follows a Skate Canada certified curriculum, with each session having a specific theme so skaters are introduced to all aspects of skating. All skaters must wear proper hockey helmets with full face shields. Skaters 13 and older are encouraged to join our Adult Learn to Skate.
2. Intro to Figure Skating
CanSkate Stages 3-6
Recommended Level: CanSkate Stages 3-6
Program Includes: Group instruction, off-ice jump training
Intro to Figure Skating is designed for skaters working on CanSkate Stages 3-6 who are interested in transitioning into STARSkate or Podium Pathway figure skating. Skaters learn proper technique and fundamental skills, including edges, stroking, jumps, spins, and musical interpretation, in a fun and supportive small-group environment led by Skate Canada Certified Coaches. The program is offered once or twice per week, allowing skaters to progress toward the Junior Development program at a pace that works for them. Off-ice training focuses on jumping, dance, flexibility, and strength.
3. Junior Development
STAR 1-2 | Ages 5-12
Recommended Level: STAR 1-2, invitation only or by coach recommendation
Training Commitment: Two days per week
Program Includes: Group instruction, off-ice jump training
Junior Development is designed for skaters ages 5-12 working at the STAR 1-2 level and progressing from Intro to Figure Skating. The program provides a structured training environment where skaters continue building the technical foundation needed to progress in figure skating. Training focuses on single jumps, spins, skating skills, edges and turns, freeskate, and ice dance. Skaters may also begin participating in Skate Canada assessments and competitions. Off-ice sessions are included twice per week and focus on fundamental jump technique, flexibility, and strength.
4. STAR Intermediate
STAR 3-5
Recommended Level: STAR 3-5
Training Commitment: Three days per week
Program Includes: Group instruction, off-ice jump training, dance training, Testify Performance
STAR Intermediate is designed for skaters working at the STAR 3-5 level who are continuing to develop within the STARSkate pathway. Training focuses on jump consistency, spin development, advanced skating skills, freeskate, dance, and artistic skating, while preparing skaters for STAR assessments and competition opportunities. Off-ice training focuses on jumping, dance, flexibility, and strength to support on-ice development. Skaters also have the option to participate in additional strength training through Testify Performance.
5. Pre-Competitive
STAR 3-5 | Ages 9 and under
Recommended Level: STAR 3-5, under 10 years of age (as of July 1), or by coach recommendation
Training Commitment: Minimum three days per week
Program Includes: Group instruction, off-ice jump training, dance training
Pre-Competitive is designed for skaters under 10 years of age (as of July 1) who are working at the STAR 3-5 level, or who enter by coach recommendation. Skaters commit to training a minimum of three days per week and focus on Axel development, advanced spins, competitive skating skills, freeskate, dance, and performance quality. The program also emphasizes goal setting, competition readiness, and preparation for the competitive pathway. Increased off-ice training supports on-ice development through jumping, dance, flexibility, and strength.
6. Competitive
STAR 5/Pre-Juvenile to Pre-Novice | Ages 12 and under
Recommended Level: STAR 5/Pre-Juvenile to Pre-Novice, under 13 years of age (as of July 1)
Entry Requirement: Consistent Axel
Training Commitment: Four days per week
Program Includes: Group and private instruction, off-ice jump training, dance training, Testify Performance
The Competitive program is designed for skaters under 13 years of age (as of July 1) competing from STAR 5/Pre-Juvenile through Pre-Novice, with a four-day per week training commitment and a consistent Axel required for entry. Skaters receive both private and group instruction, with training focused on double jump development, advanced spins and skating skills, freeskate, dance, performance quality, competition preparation, goal setting, and developing a competitive mindset. Off-ice training includes jump technique, flexibility, dance, and strength training through Testify Performance. Skaters are also expected to participate in select out-of-province competitions.
*Skaters are required to be registered with Skate Canada. If you are not currently registered there is a one time per year fee that applies to any programming you do. Please complete the link on the registration page. Registration is valid from September 1st to August 31st of each year.*