Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to the most common questions about our skating programs, registration, equipment and what to expect on the ice.

General Questions

We offer a range of Skate Canada certified programs including Parent & Tot, Pre-CanSkate, CanSkate, StarSkate and seasonal sessions such as power skating. Each program focuses on age and skill level so skaters can learn safely and confidently.

Children can join Parent & Tot as early as age 2. Pre-CanSkate typically starts at ages 3 to 5. CanSkate usually starts around age 5 depending on your child’s comfort and readiness.

Yes. We offer Adult Learn to Skate programs for anyone looking to build confidence and improve their skating skills. These sessions are ideal for adults who are new to skating, getting back on the ice, or wanting to learn the basics for recreational skating or hockey.

All lessons are held at Mold-Masters Sportsplex, TransCanada Rink C at 221 Guelph Street, Georgetown, ON L7G 4A8.

All registration is completed online through our Uplifter platform. Programs fill quickly, so early registration is recommended.

Yes. The GSC offers half season programs from Oct-Dec (10 Weeks) and Jan-Mar (10 Weeks). Half season programs must be paid in full at the start of the program.

Payment can be dropped off at Mold-Masters SportsPlex “TransCanada Rink C” in our grey GSC drop box located near the referee’s Dressing Room Door.

Alternatively, payment can be mailed to:
Georgetown Skating Club
162 Guelph St. Suite 235,
Georgetown, ON, L7G 5X7

Full season programs (Sep-Mar) can be paid in full or in 3 equal instalments with post-dated cheques due Sept. 1st, Oct 1st, and Nov. 1st; must be received upon registration.

Skate Canada requires an annual membership fee that is automatically added at checkout. This fee covers insurance and is valid from September 1 to August 31. Depending on the program being registered for there may be additional fees.

Refunds follow our club’s refund policy, which can be found under the Policies section. Requests must be submitted to the club email.

Registration and Fees

Equipment and Clothing

Yes. All skaters up to and including CanSkate must wear a CSA approved hockey helmet. Bicycle, ski or multi-sport helmets are not permitted.

Both hockey and figure skates are fine. Choose skates with firm ankle support and avoid adjustable plastic skates. Coaches can help check the fit on your first day.

Warm layers, mittens or gloves, long socks and clothing that allows easy movement. Avoid bulky snowsuits since they restrict mobility.

CanSkate is Skate Canada’s learn-to-skate program. It teaches the essential skills needed for all ice sports including hockey, ringette, figure skating and recreational skating. Learn more here

Skaters start in similar age or comfort groups. Coaches then move skaters according to their progress so each child learns at the right level.

Every child progresses at their own pace. Some may complete skills quickly, while others need more time. Coaches monitor progress throughout the session.

Program Assistants (PAs) play an important role in helping us deliver a fun and successful learn-to-skate experience. While Skate Canada certified coaches lead all instruction, PAs support the program by working alongside the coaches on the ice.

Program Assistants are experienced skaters from our club who volunteer their time to help younger skaters learn, feel confident and enjoy their sessions. All PAs receive annual and ongoing training through the club.

While Program Assistants help with activities on the ice, they are not responsible for evaluating your child’s progress. If you have questions, please speak directly with a coach. PAs are always happy to help get a coach’s attention or pass along a message.

Program Assistants help with a variety of duties, including:

Supporting Skate Canada coaches during lessons and activities
Demonstrating skills and progressions
Helping supervise practice time and keep skaters safe
Assisting with warm-ups and cool-downs
Reinforcing skills introduced by the coach
Guiding skaters through on-ice circuits and stations
Providing individual or small-group support when needed
Being positive role models for younger skaters

CanSkate Program Questions

Parent & Tot and Pre-CanSkate

No. Pre-CanSkate is an independent program with coaches and program assistants on the ice. Parent & Tot is the only program that has an adult on the ice.

Yes. If your child is ready for CanSkate, coaches can move them when appropriate.

Parent & Tot works best for children who want extra comfort and support on the ice. Pre-CanSkate is ideal for skaters who are ready to try skills independently in a group setting.

Program Assistants help with a variety of duties, including:

Supporting Skate Canada coaches during lessons and activities
Demonstrating skills and progressions
Helping supervise practice time and keep skaters safe
Assisting with warm-ups and cool-downs
Reinforcing skills introduced by the coach
Guiding skaters through on-ice circuits and stations
Providing individual or small-group support when needed
Being positive role models for younger skaters

Parents must watch from the stands so coaches can focus on the skaters. This helps keep the ice area clear and safe. Standing rinkside on player benches is not permitted.

Certified Skate Canada coaches lead every group. Trained program assistants support the sessions.

This is common with beginners. Coaches are trained to help children feel safe and comfortable. Most skaters settle within the first few lessons.

On-Ice Expectations and Safety

Missed Classes and Cancellations

Missed classes cannot be rescheduled or refunded. Skaters simply continue at their next registered session.

We notify families by email and post updates on our website or social media. Make-up classes are offered when possible.

Most programs do not run on holiday Mondays or stat holidays. Check your session schedule for details.