CanSkate
The focus of CanSkate is fun, participation and basic skill development. Lessons are taught in group format and are led by a NCCP certified Professional Coach. Coaches are assisted by specially trained Program Assistants. Skaters progress through the 7 CanSkate stages at their own speed as the coaches test on a continual basis. Participants earn badges while they learn fundamental skating skills.
Glen Cairn Skating Club offers the CanSkate program in 3 Levels:
CanSkate Level 1 (beginner skater)
Skaters at this first level will be working on the first 3 stages:
Stage 1 – Balance
Stage 2 – Glide forwards
Stage 3 – Glide backwards
CanSkate Level 2 (mid skater)
Skaters at this level will be working on the following 3 stages:
Stage 3 – Glide backwards
Stage 4 – Edges
Stage 5 – Power
PLEASE NOTE: Helmets are mandatory for all Pre-school and Level 1 and 2 skaters.
Skaters at these levels will not be allowed on the ice without an approved helmet (no bike helmets please). We strongly recommend that any unsteady skaters in other levels also wear helmets. The safety of our skaters is important to us.
CanSkate Level 3 (advanced skater)
Skaters at this level will be working on the following 3 stages:
Stage 5 – Power
Stage 6 – Speed
Stage 7 – (Optional enrichment level – Pre-junior)
This final, enrichment stage (pre-junior) of the Program is a transitional stage that serves as a bridge from CanSkate to the STARSkate program. It introduces many figure skating skills that are included in the Preliminary level tests. Skaters who complete Stage 7 are well on their way to taking their first Skate Canada test.