First Strides - Learn to Skate
Skaters looking to learn basic skating skills will work their way through four levels of the First Strides segment of the program. Coaches will guide participants through each skating milestone – from their first steps on the ice, to gliding forward and backward around the rink.
Whether you're interested in hockey, ringette, speed skating, or simply recreational skating, this program caters to all skating goals. Designed for use with hockey-style skates, it is ideal for youth looking to learn to skate or develop fundamental skating skills. Within the program, skaters are grouped by ability, ensuring tailored instruction and a supportive learning experience for all participants, from true beginners to those with more advanced foundational skills.
Minimum Age
4 years old as of July 1, 2026
Location
Grant-Harvey Centre
Fall Session
Registration for the winter session will open in late October.
Dates
October 14 to December 9, 2026 (9 sessions, weekly on Wednesdays)
No session offered during March break
Time
6:00 to 7:00 p.m (Tentative based on confirmation from the city)
Fees
$200, plus a one-time $30 fee for Speed Skate New Brunswick (SSNB) and Speed Skate Canada (SSC). If a skater participated in the Fall Session and paid the SSNB and SSC fee, then payment of the SSNB and SSC fees is not required for the Winter Session. Further information on fees can be found here.
Required Equipment
Further information on equipment can be found here.