Skate UK - What to expect on your first session

Firstly it is a good idea to attend a Skate UK course with a friend, when practicing newly taught elements it can be very useful to have someone with whom you can discuss your progress.

When you attend your first Skate UK session it will probably be assumed that you are a beginner and the coaches will group together those who have not previously attained a Skate UK Grade. Those who already have a previous Skate UK grade will be seperated into existing groups which tend to span a few grades. For example Grades 5/6, 7/8, 9/10 though this will depend on both the size of the rink and the amount of coaches available.

To begin with the coaches will attempt to ascertain those within the group who are already competant on the ice, such as those with public session skating experience. These people may be asked to move directly a grade or two up depending upon their assessed ability.

As a new starter on Grade 1 of Skate UK you will be introduced to the concepts of ice skating. This will be in the form of the elements within Grade 1 - See here for a breakdown of Grade 1 elements

Depending on the rink where you are taking your Skate UK course, elements will either be signed off once they are demonstrated to be competent, or following a practical test at the end of the Skate UK Block.