​STAR Skate

 

How do we get to STAR SKATE?

Pre CanSkate → CanSkate/CanSkate Plus →  STARSkate  

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Take Your Skating to the Next Level

"Skills, Tests, Achievement, Recognition – this is what STARSkate is all about!"
— Skate Canada

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STARSkate is Skate Canada's nationally recognized figure skating program. It gives skaters the opportunity to continue developing their skills in a fun, challenging, and rewarding environment.

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Whether a skater dreams of competing, performing in ice shows, learning new skills, or simply enjoying figure skating, STARSkate provides a pathway for every goal.

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Through a combination of private lessons, group instruction, and independent practice, skaters develop confidence while progressing in all areas of figure skating.

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At a Glance

Entry Requirement: Completed CanSkate Stage 6 (or equivalent) 

Who: Children, teens, and adults who want to continue developing figure skating skills.

Lesson Format: Private lessons, semi-private lessons, and group instruction.

Focus: Skills, FreeSkate, Ice Dance, and Artistic Skating.

 

 

What Will My Skater Learn?

 

STARSkate provides instruction in four exciting areas of figure skating:

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Skills - Develop edge quality, turns, power, balance, and overall skating technique.

Ice Dance - Learn rhythm, timing, edges, and musical interpretation while skating a variety of dances.

FreeSkate - Develop jumps, spins, footwork, and performance skills.

Artistic Skating - Explore creativity, choreography, and musical expression while building confidence on the ice.

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As skaters progress, they have opportunities to earn nationally recognized Skate Canada assessments and awards.

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Testing & Competitions

 

STARSkate offers many opportunities for skaters to challenge themselves.

Skaters may choose to:

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• Complete Skate Canada STAR assessments.

• Participate in local, regional, provincial, national, and International competitions.

• Perform in club exhibitions and ice shows.

• Continue skating recreationally while working toward personal goals.

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Every skater's journey is unique, and our coaches will help them find the pathway that's right for them.

 

STAR Assessments

STAR assessments are held throughout the skating season.

Assessment dates, for STAR 6 and up, registration information, and deadlines can be found on our Test Days page.

View Upcoming Assessment Dates

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​Program Levels

 

Junior

 

Entry Requirements

• Successfully completed CanSkate Stage 6

• Or Coach and Board approval based on skating ability, age, and readiness

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This program introduces skaters to the STARSkate environment while continuing to build strong figure skating fundamentals.

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Intermediate

 

Entry Requirements

• Successfully completed all STAR 1 assessments

• Completed at least one full STAR 2 assessment

• Or coach and Board approval based on ability and readiness

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Intermediate skaters continue developing stronger skating skills while learning more advanced jumps, spins, dances, and skating techniques.

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Senior

 

Entry Requirements

• Completed two STAR 5 assessments

          OR

• Completed one complete one full STAR 6 assessment

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Senior STAR provides advanced training opportunities for skaters working toward higher Skate Canada assessments and competitive goals.

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Private Lesson Options

 

Private lessons are available for STARSkate skaters but are not mandatory, particularly at the Junior STAR level. Every skater's journey is different, and families can choose the coaching option that best suits their goals and budget.

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Group Lessons Included

 

All STARSkate sessions include group instruction led by our coaching team.

• Junior STAR skaters spend the majority of their session participating in group lessons that focus on developing strong skating fundamentals in a fun and supportive environment.

• Intermediate STAR skaters participate in one or two group lessons each session, with additional time available for independent practice and optional private or semi-private lessons.

• Senior STAR skaters receive at least one group lesson each session while continuing to work toward their individual skating goals.

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Group lessons are an excellent way for skaters to learn new skills, practice together, and benefit from instruction provided by multiple coaches.

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Benefits of Private Lessons

 

Private coaching provides individualized instruction tailored to each skater's unique strengths, goals, and learning style. It can help skaters:

• Progress at their own pace

• Receive personalized feedback and skill development

• Build confidence on the ice

• Prepare for assessments, competitions, or personal skating goals

• Focus on the skills that need the most attention

Some skaters also choose semi-private lessons, where two skaters of similar ability share a lesson while still receiving individualized coaching.

As skaters advance through the STARSkate program, many families choose to add private lessons to support continued progress. However, participation in private lessons is always a family decision and is never required to join the STARSkate program.

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New to STARSkate?

 

Many families begin with only the included group lessons and add private lessons later as their skater's goals and confidence grow. Our coaching team is happy to help you decide what option is best for your skater.

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Not sure how to choose a coach?

Click the "How to Choose a Coach" button above for helpful information and tips on selecting a coach that's the right fit for your skater.

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You can also visit our Coaches page to learn more about our coaching team, read coach biographies, and find contact information.

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Parent Information Sessions

New to figure skating?

Throughout the season, we host information sessions to help families better understand the STARSkate program, competitions, assessments, equipment, and what to expect as skaters progress.

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Zoom Meeting Series

New to Figure Skating
November 12, 2025

Click the button to the right to view a summary of this meeting.

More information sessions will be added throughout the season.

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Helmet Information

 

Skaters entering STARSkate may be transitioning away from wearing a helmet.

If your skater would like additional confidence during this transition, you may wish to consider an Ice Halo®.

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Please note that an Ice Halo® does not replace a CSA-approved hockey helmet when a helmet is still required.

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Why Choose STARSkate?

 

✔ Certified Skate Canada Coaches

✔ Individualized coaching and goal setting

✔ Nationally recognized assessment program

✔ Opportunities for competitions, ice shows, and personal achievement

✔ A supportive club environment where every skater can reach their potential

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Program Information

Session schedules may be adjusted due to arena scheduling, ice maintenance (floods), or enrollment.

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