Registration Updates
Registration for the August 2025 Summer Session is available to current Skate Canada members.
2025/26 Season Registration opens in August 2025.
SKATE FURTHER WITH ADVANCED CANSKATE & STAR PREP
Ready to Register?
We’d love to see you on the ice!
If registration isn’t open yet, please check the Registration Info Page for timelines and program updates.
Advanced CanSkate
Who It’s For
- Advanced CanSkate is for skaters who have completed Stage 4 or higher and want to continue developing their skating skills without transitioning into figure skating. Typically suited for ages 6–12, this group is perfect for skaters who enjoy skating recreationally or are preparing for other ice sports like speed skating or hockey.
Program Structure
- Skaters work in small group settings led by NCCP-certified coaches. Sessions focus on refining fundamental skating techniques through fun drills, games, and circuits. Coaches continue to use the CanSkate stage framework while introducing more advanced concepts.
Key Skills Developed
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Stronger balance, speed, and edge control
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Introduction to crossovers, tight turns, and advanced stops
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Improved agility, power, and coordination
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Confidence and endurance in a supportive environment
Progress Recognition
- Skaters continue working through Stages 5 and 6 of the CanSkate program, earning ribbons and badges as they go. Coaches track progress and provide feedback to help skaters achieve their goals.
Equipment
- Skaters require well-fitted skates, a CSA-approved hockey helmet (until Stage 5 is completed), and flexible athletic wear.
- See our full Equipment Info page
Next Steps
- After completing Stage 6, skaters can continue in a recreational skating stream or explore programs like STAR Prep or sport-specific development.
STAR Prep
Who It’s For
- STAR Prep is for skaters who have completed Stage 4 or higher and are interested in transitioning into figure skating. This group introduces the building blocks for the STARSkate program and is designed to help skaters decide if figure skating is the right path for them.
Program Structure
- Skaters work in small groups with certified figure skating coaches to learn the basics of figure skating elements and artistic expression. Sessions may include off-ice warm-ups, on-ice technique, and choreography.
Key Skills Developed
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Introduction to jumps, spins, and spirals
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Basic footwork and artistic movement
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Performance skills and confidence-building
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Foundations of solo skating and routine structure
Progress Recognition
- Skaters continue earning remaining CanSkate badges (Stages 5–6) while also receiving coach feedback on figure skating readiness. This program prepares skaters to confidently enter the STARSkate stream.
Equipment
- Figure skates and fitted skating attire are required. A CSA-approved hockey helmet may still be needed depending on skill level.
- See our full Equipment Info page
Next Steps
- Skaters who are ready can transition into STARSkate, where they’ll begin formal figure skating training in areas like Skills, Ice Dance, and Free Skate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the difference between Advanced CanSkate and STAR Prep?
A: Advanced CanSkate is for skaters who want to keep improving after CanSkate without moving into figure skating. STAR Prep is for those who are interested in figure skating and want to start learning jumps, spins, and choreography.
A: Advanced CanSkate is for skaters who want to keep improving after CanSkate without moving into figure skating. STAR Prep is for those who are interested in figure skating and want to start learning jumps, spins, and choreography.
Q: Does my child still need to wear a helmet?
A: Yes, until they’ve passed Stage 5. After that, a helmet may no longer be required coaches will let you know.
A: Yes, until they’ve passed Stage 5. After that, a helmet may no longer be required coaches will let you know.