Learn-to-Figure Skate Programs

The Intro to Figure Skating program is a group-based, Learn-to-Figure-Skate program designed to transition skaters from CanSkate into the STARSkate pathway. It is ideal for skaters who are ready to move beyond basic skating skills and want to pursue figure skating.

This program focuses on introducing figure skating elements in a supportive group environment, building a foundation for jumps, spins, stroking, and performance skills.

Entry Requirement:
To participate in this program, skaters must have completed Stage 1 of the CanSkate program.

Additional Eligibility:

• Skaters are typically invited from the Whitecourt CanSkate program based on coach recommendation.

• Skaters who did not receive an invitation may request a skill assessment by the club to determine readiness.

Safety Requirement:
CSA-certified helmets are  mandatory for all skaters in this program.

The Pre-Primary Program is a continuation from the Intro to Figure Skating (INTF) level. It is designed for skaters who are ready to build on their foundational figure skating skills. In this group, skaters begin to train more consistently and are introduced to structured practice time, performance components, and more advanced elements such as basic spins, jumps, and edge work. 

Key Features:

• Focus on skill development and technical progression
• Group-based instruction with a structured routineContinued 
• emphasis on posture, balance, and control
• Introduction to performance and expression on the ice
  
  

Safety Requirement:
CSA-certified helmets are still mandatory for all skaters in this program.

This program helps skaters develop the discipline and technique needed to move confidently into the Primary level of figure skating.

Participation Requirements:
To make progress in this program, skaters are required to skate at least two days per week.  To improve at a faster rate, we strongly suggest:
- 3 days per week (highly recommend)

The Primary Program builds on the skills developed in the Pre-Primary group, with a stronger focus on refining technique and learning more advanced elements. Skaters begin to learn and execute more complex jumps, spins, and footwork, as well as improving their overall performance skills. This program prepares skaters for more independent practice and prepares them for the transition into the Junior Program or STARSkate 1.

Key Features:

• Focus on refining technique in jumps, spins, and footwork.
• More emphasis on strength, agility, and flexibility
• Introduction to choreographed routines and performance ( Spin, spiral, and jumps)
• Opportunity to begin participating in competition events.
  
  

Safety Requirement:
Helmets are optional for skaters who have passed Stage 5 of CanSkate.

The Junior Program is designed for skaters who are ready for a more structured, independent training experience. This program is for skaters transitioning into 

the STARSkate 2–4 levels and includes a combination of group lessons, semi-private sessions, and off-ice training. Skaters will continue to develop their technical skills while focusing more on individual goals and preparation for competition events or assessments.

Key Features:

• Advanced technical training in jumps, spins, and edge work
• Focus on performance, artistry, and skating quality
• Semi-private lessons and off-ice conditioning
• Skaters are expected to practice independently at least three times per week
  
  

Participation Requirements:
To ensure continued progress, skaters attend three skating days per week and consistently participate in the off-ice class.