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About the Program
Our Pre-CanSkate and CanSkate programs are entering an exciting new phase. With improved professional coach-to-skater ratios, refreshed lesson plans, and long-term skating development guiding our approach, our staff are energized by the direction ahead.
A renewed leadership structure is now in place to support coaches, strengthen consistency, and ensure a positive, high-quality experience for every skater. These updates reflect our ongoing commitment to providing a strong foundation and a supportive start to each skater’s journey.
PRE-CANSKATE ages 2 and up
Pre-CanSkate beginning at age 2 is a dynamic learn-to-skate program focused on fun, confidence, and foundational skill development. this session is for the first time skater who has not yet accomplised their Pre-Can Ribbon. This session is designed to introduce skaters to the ice in a safe, engaging, and supportive environment.
Lessons are led by professional coaches with a 1:5 skater-to-coach ratio, allowing for plenty of individual attention. Play-based instruction, extra assistance, and confidence-building activities are key components of this program. Developing a positive relationship with on-ice movement is central to Skate Canada’s Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) principles.
CanSkate builds on these foundations, emphasizing physical literacy and the fundamental skills needed to participate in any ice sport or to skate recreationally. This is a non-parent participation program and sessions are 30 minutes in length, structured to support age-appropriate activity and engagement.
Very young skaters aged 2–4 who would benefit from additional time completing Stage 1 are welcome to remain in the Pre-CanSkate session before progressing.
Canskate
CanSkate is Skate Canada’s nationally recognized learn-to-skate program, focused on fun, participation, and fundamental skill development. Guided by Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) principles, the program emphasizes physical literacy and the core skating skills needed for all ice sports and recreational skating.
Our refreshed delivery model features a 1:8 coach-to-skater ratio, allowing for more individualized instruction and consistent on-ice support. The program is taught through six progressive stages that develop Balance, Control, and Agility, while introducing foundational elements for Figure Skating, Hockey/Ringette, and Speed Skating. This session is 50 minutes in length.
Sessions are led by NCCP-certified professional coaches, supported by trained CanSkate coaches and Program Assistants to ensure a safe, positive, and engaging learning environment