Tuition

Whitley Bay Ice Rink offers a course for everyone wanting to learn to skate. This is achieved through our various group tuition classes, run throughout the year for figure, ice dance and hockey skaters. Those eager to advance even further may wish to try a few individual lessons. British and World Champions started at Whitley Bay. The Rink has provided the National Hockey Teams with players at both Junior and Senior levels.

Ice Bears

A gentle introduction for 2 to 6 years olds, held on Thursdays between 4.15pm and 4.45pm. Qualified instructors teach the children the rudiments of skating in a playing environment. Rosettes are awarded when certain elements are attained. Accompanying adults are able to watch the children progress from the seats surrounding the rink. Skate hire is included in the £2.50 fee.

Polar Club 1

Held on Saturday mornings between 9.30am and 10.00am. This popular free membership club provides group tuition for school age children. Pupils progress through a graded badge system, which can lead on to figure skating excellence. Having attained grades 1-8, skaters are then able to transfer to Polar Club 2. The fee for skate & hire, not only covers the club entry, but also extends to the Saturday morning public session.

Polar Club 2

Held on Sunday mornings between 9.30am and 10.00am. Only available to those who have completed and attained grades 1-8 in Polar Club 1. Pupils are able to progress through stages 9 Ð 12 and then Freestyle 1 Ð 10. As with Polar Club 1, the entrance fee covers both the club and public session.

Rookie 1

A similar course to Polar Club 1, but attracting those interested in ice hockey skating. No equipment is required for this class, which is held on Friday evenings between 6.15pm and 7.00pm. It allows pupils to progress through a graded badge system, grades 1-8, and then progress to Rookie 2. The entrance fee covers the tuition and public session* which follows. It is possible to redeem £1 from the entrance fee, if not attending the latter *.

Rookie 2

This is a continuation of Rookie 1, held on Tuesday evenings between 6.15pm and 7.00pm It is possible to progress through grades 9-12. Some equipment is required when participating in this class and coaches will supply the necessary information about this.

Adult Classes

These classes are held throughout the year for both figure and hockey skaters. They consist of a course of 6 lessons, held on Sunday mornings between 9.30am and 10.00am. Ice Dance Class This class appeals to all abilities of skaters, whether beginners or experienced. You only need to be able to skate forwards! It is held on Monday evenings between 7.30pm and 7.45pm, with the instructor being on hand to guide you, if required, after the tuition slot.