All CanSkate programs (PreSchool, CanSkate, Junior, PowerSkating and Adult Skate) have group lessons provided by professionally certified coaches registered with Skate Canada. All levels above Junior provide group instructions for stroking only.

At some point, a skater may prefer some personal attention. Private or semi–private lessons are available on all SCPSC sessions and are required once a skater reaches the Junior level. These lessons are done during your child’s regular skating session.

Selecting A Private Coach:
It is up to the skater and the parent to contact a coach directly to enquire about private lessons. This arrangement is independent of the Club. The Club will not recommend a specific coach. When you hire a coach, the agreement is made between the skater, parent and the coach. The Club assumes no responsibility for private lessons arranged between the coach and the skater or for fees incurred as a result of this agreement. The rate charged for private or semi-private lessons is the prerogative of the Professional Coach in agreement with their clients. You should receive a Coaching Code of Ethics when you contract a private coach. Your child may already have a favourite coach based on whom he/she has had for group lessons. It is extremely important that your skater likes their private coach so let your skater tell you who they prefer.

DO NOT WAIT – some coaches may get booked well ahead of the opening season. If you are thinking about private coaching, call now. Executive members are not permitted to recommend specific coaches. Talk to parents, talk to other skaters and observe what happens on the ice.

You should consider the following issues when selecting a private coach:
• The Coach’s availability – Does the coach have time?
• How many sessions per week do you want?
• How many lessons per week can the coach provide?
• How much does the coach charge
• Does the coach’s philosophy match that of your skater? Coaches have different approaches and attitudes towards teaching, competitions, tests, etc.

You should always confirm with you private coach that you are returning for another season. They may not make room for your child if they do not hear from you.

Absence from a Lesson:
It is the skater’s responsibility to inform their private coach of their absence for a lesson. You may find that you have been charged for a lesson that you did not attend if adequate notice was not given. If your coach is away, he/she will try to notify you and possibly send a replacement. In emergency situations, the coach will try to notify the Club of their absence and a notice will be posted on the Bulletin Boards. Each coach has their own policies regarding cancellation and missed lessons. Please consult your coach.

Coaching Changes:
If at some point you wish to make a coaching change, you must first find out if the coach you wish to change to has time. You must then notify your current coach of your intentions. All outstanding fees must be paid to the previous coach before lessons with the new coach begin.