Moving Up From CanSkate to Preliminary
Two Options for Preliminary
New Options for Preliminary Skaters in 2022/23
The transition from CanSkate to Preliminary is an exciting time for the skaters, but sometimes a challenge to navigate for parents. While Skate Canada recommends commencing private coaching once reaching this level, we recognize that this is not the preferred option for some families. This year we will therefore offer two options to Preliminary level skaters. They will run concurrently on the same sessions:
Option 1: Intro to Preliminary (CanSkate 6-Star 2)
Silver blades will offer a new option this year for preliminary skaters. Intro to Preliminary will offer rotating group lessons conducted by multiple club coaches for the entire 60 minute session. Groups will be arranged by skating level. This option may be of interest to skaters who are new to preliminary and do not wish to start with private coaching immediately, for those who do not want private coaching every session, or for those skaters who have a private coach who is not available on a day they wish to skate. If you register for Option 1: Intro to Preliminary and wish to switch for Option 2: Regular Preliminary mid-season, a $50 admin fee will apply and you will be refunded a pro-rated amount.
Note: Intro to Preliminary is only appropriate for the skaters' first season (year) at this level. After the first season, registration in regular Preliminary supplemented with a private Coach is required.
Option 2: Regular Preliminary (CanSkate 6-Star 2)
This option will include rotating group lessons for 30 minutes, leaving 30 minutes for the skater to arrange a private lesson and/or train independently.
If you are a Preliminary skater who already has a private coach, please reach out to your coach to discuss your skating schedule and which options are right for you before registering. Private coaching is a relationship formed between parents and coaches independently and invoiced separately.
Private coaching
- Figure skating is an individual sport—every skater has different strengths and masters skills at a different rate. And individual attention is required so that each child can progress to the best of their ability.
- Coaches are responsible for moving skaters through the figure skating test streams, and they conduct assessments of their skaters at the Preliminary level. Without a coach, your child will not be able to test their skills and advance to higher levels.
- A coach is responsible for informing and advising parents/skaters about entering competitions, and they provide essential guidance and support as skaters prepare to compete.