Learn to Skate
Come along to Billingham Forum and learn how to skate in accordance with the National Ice Skating Association’s (NISA) National Skate Awards Skate UK scheme. Ice-skating is a great way to keep fit and can help build strength, develop co-ordination and improve stamina.
Each ice skating course lasts 5 weeks and covers elements of the National Skate Award grades (Level 1 to Level 10). Initially, the aim would be learning how to stand on the ice and progress to a basic forward movement; the higher levels teach the skater simple step sequences and crossovers in figure eight patterns.
The skills acquired with the instructor should be practiced outside the session, so that you become more confident with the move making it look more natural, this will help you meet the required standards to achieve the grade.
Your progress throughout the lessons will be recorded on a Skate UK Skill Accomplishment Chart and is your evidence of having achieved various grades. Badges and certificates can be purchased from Billingham Forum reception at a cost of £2.10.
The courses:
Beginners
Saturday 9.30am – 10.00am
This course is for both adults and children. Over several courses you can expect to cover level 1 through to level 5 of the National Skate Award UK scheme. After learning new skills in your lesson you can remain on the ice for the public session (free of charge) to practice your skills further.
Improvers
Thursday 6.45pm – 7.15pm
This course is for both adults and children who have completed levels 1- 5. You will work towards achieving levels 6 – 10 to progress your skills on the ice. Before each lesson you are invited to attend the public session (4.15 – 6.45pm) to warm up and practice your moves (free of charge).
Adult Learn to Skate
Monday 7.30pm – 8.00pm
This 5-week course is specifically for adults who want to learn to skate or brush up on existing skills. You have the option to work through the National skate Award Skate UK scheme if you want to. After learning new skills in your lesson you can remain on the ice for the public session (free of charge) to practice your skills further.
Remember: arrive a little early for your lesson to allow time to put your skates on, enabling you to receive your full 30 minutes tuition time..
Our resident professional ice skating coaches all hold National Ice Skating Association and British Ice Teaching Association qualifications. They are available to be contacted prior to each lesson in the ice arena.
Private skating lessons
The coaches offer private skating lessons and are arranged during public skate sessions. Each session lasts 15 minutes and fees are paid direct to the coach. (please note: this payment is in addition to the normal admission price for public skating)
Whether you’re planning on being an ice hockey star, winning Olympic Gold in figure skating, or looking for a bit of fun and a new skill to learn, Billingham Forum will make sure you have a fantastic time.