We want to ensure skaters can progress through their skating journey as smoothly as possible – and for that, our test format needs to evolve, starting with our Skills Tests.
Our current in-person test structure depends on the availability of volunteers and ice time, and skaters having the time and money to travel to test sessions. As we look to support our members by reducing costs and enhancing scheduling flexibility where possible, we’re excited to announce the first step in our move toward virtual testing.
Starting next week we will be piloting virtual Skills Tests, starting with a limited number of skaters while we trial the new systems and infrastructure. We then aim to gradually open the option of virtual tests to a greater number of skaters.
How Will Virtual Tests Work?
Instead of performing in front of a live judging panel at a dedicated test session, skaters will be able to submit videos of their performance for judges to review. Clear guidance will be provided to help skaters and coaches capture their performance accurately, and skaters can record multiple attempts before choosing to submit their best version.
Further information can be found on our new Virtual Test webpage.
When Will Virtual Tests Be Introduced?
At first virtual Skills Tests will be made available just to small groups of skaters who have been waiting for tests the longest or have struggled with test accessibility; this will give our judges and other key staff and volunteers the chance to adjust to the new processes and ensure their efficacy before we launch virtual testing more broadly.
Skaters eligible for the first wave of virtual tests will be contacted directly with more information.
We will send out further communications when the next updates on our virtual test rollout are available.
Why The Move to Virtual Tests?
Test opportunities are currently dependent on the often-limited availability of judges and ice time, leaving little flexibility for skaters in terms of choosing when and where they test, and reducing the number of tests we can offer and process overall.
The new format will:
>> maximise judges’ time by allowing them to carry out their judging flexibly around their own work/life commitments.
>> let skaters choose exactly when to complete their test, have multiple attempts without incurring additional fees, and save money on travel.
>> allow skaters to complete their test at a time and in an environment they are confident in, supporting those who may struggle under standard test conditions due to anxiety or a disability
>> lower the environmental impact of tests by reducing travel and ice requirements – where live tests require an entire pad for a single skater, virtual tests can be recorded on quieter public/patch sessions (within recommended safety guidelines,) increasing their overall sustainability.
Will Virtual Tests Eventually Replace In-Person Tests?
While virtual tests will eventually be available to all skaters, live tests will remain an option for skaters who prefer to test in-person.