Our Program

The skating programs offered by our club enable skaters to have fun while improving their skating skills.

Our coaches are professionally certified by Skate Canada. Trained program assistants help the coaches in our Learn to Skate Programs (CanSkate and Preschool).

Learn To Skate Programs

Preschool

The preschool program is designed for 3 to 5 years who have never skated before.

CanSkate

The CanSkate program is an introductory learn-to-skate program designed for all kids, whether they wish to play hockey, ringette, or figure skate. Children are generally ready to participate in the program after reaching the age of four.

The program teaches participants fundamental movements (forward and backward movement, stop, turn, spin, and jump) and basic skills. The CanSkate program provides a fun environment that includes games and music in a group lesson format. The program provides badges for children to measure their progress. Skaters are tested individually when they are ready, and as a result each skater progresses at their own rate.

Foothills Skating Club is proud to exceed the Skate Canada CanSkate Program Delivery standards by having each participant spend a minimum of 15 minutes per session in a group lesson with their NCCP (National Coaching Certification Program) coach. The remainder of the session, participants will be instructed in a large group or be supervised by our Program Assistants who reinforce the skills and activities taught by our Professional Coaches. Our Program Assistants attend a training course each year to develop the skills necessary to assist the Professional Coaches in delivering a high quality program in a professional and safe environment.

Test Stream Programs

Preliminary Prep

The Preliminary Prep program is a bridge between CanSkate and the Skate Canada test program known as STARSkate. It is taught in a group, semi-private or private lesson format. The skaters are introduced to the three primary elements of figure skating: dance, skills and freeskate. This program is available to those who have passed Level 5 CanSkate, and who have a desire to further their Figure Skating skills.

Test Level

This level is for skaters who are in the STARSkate program. Skaters are tested in skills, dance and freeskate. Skaters in the STARSkate program are coached privately through contract with one of the Club's professional coaches. There are a number of competitions available to skaters at this level, generally within driving distance of Black Diamond.