Learn to Skate
The Learn to Skate program is designed for beginners ages 4 and up. Lessons are given in a group format and led by NCCP certified professional coaches. Professional coaches are assisted by trained Program Assistants. The Russell Skating Club is proud to offer 3 Learn to Skate programs CanSkate, Advance CanSkate, and Adult CanSkate.
***Participants must be 4 years old by December 31, 2024.
Program Information

CanSkate
Skate Canada's flagship learn-to-skate program is designed for beginners of all ages. CanSkate is our entry-level program where basic skating skills are taught to children, youths and adults. After mastering the basics there are the options of Advance CanSkate for skaters at Stage 4 and up in the CanSkate program. No previous experience is required. New skaters to us will be assessed and grouped on the first day.

Advance CanSkate
A program for skaters who are working on Level 4 badges or above and who wish to gain more experience in the fundamentals of figure skating. After the completion of Stage 6 in the CanSkate program we offer STARSkate

Adult Learn to Skate
A program for adults who always wanted to learn how to skate. The program is designed to allow each participant to learn at their own pace while following and completing the CanSkate program.
Adult Skate for Life
This class is intended for individuals who have some skating experience or would like to work on more advanced skating skills. The program is designed to allow each participant to learn at their own pace while following and completing the skating program.
Schedule
2024/2025 Schedule | ||||||||
Sunday | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday | ||
Star 5 - Gold | 4- 5:30 | Star 5 - Gold | 4 - 5:30 | |||||
Canskate PreCan - Stage 3 | 5:40-6:30 | CanSkate PreCan - Stage 3 | 5:40-6:30 | |||||
Adv CanSkate | 6:30-7:20 | Adv CanSkate | 6:30-7:20 | |||||
Star 1 - 4 | 6:30-7:50 | Star 1 - 4 | 6:30-7:50 | |||||
Adult Learn to Skate | 7:20-7:50 | Adult-Skate for Life | 7:20-7:50 |
Holidays & No Lessons
- Thanksgiving Day - Monday, October 14, 2024
- Wednesday November 20, 2024
- Winter Break December 22 - January 3, 2025
- Family Day - February 17, 2025
Fees & Policies
Fees
Please see the registration page for updated fees. Fees include the class fee plus an annual Skate Canada Fee. Full payment is required at the time of registration.
The mandatory Skate Canada Fee is only charged once per year (Sept 1 to Aug 31) per skater. If you have paid this fee to another club please e-mail onrussellfsc@yahoo.ca to let us know. The Skate Canada Fee is non-refundable and non-transferable.
Refunds
Learn to Skate Sessions:
- Refund requests must be in writing or by email to the office (onrussellfsc@yahoo.ca) at least 24 hours before the 3rd class. We do not accept changes or withdrawals in person or over the phone.
- There are no refunds after the 3rd class.
- The Skate Canada fees are non-refundable for any reason.
- All refunds are pro-rated from the time of notification (24-hour notice required).
- Refunds for injury with a doctor’s note will be issued at any time throughout the program.
Missed Classes
Participants are to attend all classes as scheduled for the program in which they are registered. No refund will be given for a class cancelled due to the weather or a situation beyond our control.
Helmet Policy
CanSkate (4 yrs & up), Advance CanSkate, & AdultSkate - A CSA-approved hockey helmet is required for all skaters in these programs. Helmet face cages are optional for those 5yrs & up, but highly recommended.
The CSA-approved hockey helmet must be in good condition, not broken or missing pieces, and must fit properly.
All CanSkate, Advance CanSkate and Adult CanSkate participants are required to wear a CSA-approved hockey helmet while on the ice until they have completed Stage 5.
This policy must be agreed to at the time of registration. Equipment is not provided by Ontario Russell Skating Club. No exceptions will be made to this policy at any time or for any reason. Skaters who show up for classes without the proper equipment will not be allowed on the ice.
A bicycle or skiing helmet will not be allowed to be used on the ice.
For more information on Skate Canada's Helmet Policy and regulations, please click here.
Equipment Policy
All skaters in all programs are required to provide their own skates and CSA-approved hockey helmets. Skaters also need to provide their own warm clothing and gloves while they are on the ice. Helmets must be in good condition, not broken or missing pieces, and must fit the skater properly. This policy must be accepted at the time of registration. No exceptions will be made to this policy. Skaters that show up to classes without the proper equipment will not be allowed on the ice.
Accessibility Standards Policy
Russell Skating Club understands that barriers may exist for persons with a disability to take part in our programs. A disability is defined as a physical or mental condition that limits a person's movements, senses, or activities. It is our goal to accommodate the needs of all persons. To that end, if you or your skater requires one on one assistance or special accommodations of any kind, please reach out to us in advance of registration so we may ensure that supports are in place before the start of your program.
For a full list of our policies please click on the link.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my skater need their own skates?
Yes, every participant needs to supply their own skates and a CSA approved hockey helmet. Russell Skating Club does not provide rentals. Skaters without the proper equipment will not be allowed on the ice.
Does my child need any special equipment if they are just starting to learn (e.g., elbow pads, knee pads)?
No, no special equipment is needed, and can actually make it it a little more challenging for learning. For example, knee pads on the outside of pants will make it more difficult for children to learn to stand. A CSA approved helmet is the only recommended safety equipment.
What should my child wear?
It can get cold in the arena, especially in the winter, so please dress appropriately. Heavy snow pants can limit movement so dressing in layers is better. Water resistant and warm mittens are best for hands (so that they don't stick to the ice). Please note that we use markers as teaching aids, and sometimes the marker residue from the ice can rub off on light coloured clothing.
How often do I need to sharpen skates?
Do I need to stay in the building/arena while my skater is on the ice?
YES, skaters require a parent or/and responsible guardian in the arena at all times.
What level do I register my child for?
Don’t know what level not a problem, register your child for the CanSkate program and we will take care of the level. If you have skated with us before we have a record of what levels your child achieved last session. If you are new to us we will assess and place your skater in the appropriate level during the first week. Coaches are constantly assessing skaters and will move them to the appropriate level/group throughout the season.
Do you offer make-up classes if my skater misses a class?
No. Participants are to attend all classes as scheduled for the program in which they are registered. In the event that a participant is unable to attend a scheduled class(es), make-up classes, refunds, or credits for the missed class(es) will not be provided.
For any additional questions please contact onrussellfsc@yahoo.ca .
Curious about the new CanSkate Program?
Have a look at this article from Skate Canada.