Our CanSkate sessions operate under the direction of Skate Canada registered professional coaches. The process of becoming a professional coach is rigorous with at least 12 months of training. All professional coaches have current first-aid and are responsible for the safety of the skaters on the ice. They are supported by program assistants. Program assistants are volunteers drawn from our more advanced skaters. To volunteer as a program assistant skaters must be 12 years old, and must attend a training session. 1st-year program assistants mostly operate as helpers to more experienced program assistants. Parents who have questions or concerns about their skater or the conduct of the sessions should aim to discuss their concerns with one of the professional coaches, not the program assistants.