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As communicated to members last month, British Ice Skating have been carrying out a review of our event plans for the 2026/27 season. We had hoped to announce the planned BIS competition changes for the new season this week, to give members as much time as possible to plan their season. However, an important factor in our review was the need to align better with the ISU’s event calendar and strategy. Unfortunately, as the full ISU calendar has not yet been published, we are still waiting on key information to help inform our decisions. We appreciate your patience for the delay in releasing our revised calendar, and we will provide an update as soon as possible. Why Are Things Changing? The review will aim to ensure British Ice Skating events offer the best competitive experience for skaters, providing a clear progress path that enables athletes at all levels to maximise their potential. This includes ensuring our pathways connect as seamlessly as possible with international competitive opportunities, which is dependent on the ISU’s event calendar and objectives. To this end, we are reviewing the dates and formats of BIS events for the 2026/27 season. Dependent on any relevant decisions made at the 2026 ISU Congress, further changes may be introduced for the 2027/28 season. What’s Changing We can confirm that our Championship events have been rescheduled and will now be provisionally taking place as follows: · British Figure Skating Championships: 1st-6th December 2026 · British Short Track Championships: 2nd-3rd January 2027 · British Synchronized Skating Championships: 6th-9th January 2027 · British Solo Ice Dance Championships and British Adult Figure Skating Championships dates to be confirmed soon. All other BIS events are now under review. We will aim to provide an update to members with the new dates and schedule for our events programme as soon as possible.

We are pleased to announce the details for the British Ice Skating Performance Pathway Squads for Singles & Pairs and Ice Dance Couples for the 2026/27 season. Full squad details, including the criteria for each squad, application process, and application links, are outlined in the documents below: Singles & Pairs Ice Dance (Couples) If a skater was on a Development or Future Generation Squad for season 2025/26, their Squad status expires on 30th June 2026 and they will need to submit the new application form based on the scores achieved in the season 2025/26. Applications for ALL squads are open NOW. Please note that Junior skaters wishing to compete internationally in the first half of the season 2026/27 need to have their squad status confirmed by 15th July 2026, so we encourage skaters to submit their applications for these squads as quickly as possible. This also applies to non-Performance Senior skaters submitting their scores to access international competitions. If you have any questions about any of the Squad guidance for 2026/27, please get in touch with us at Performance@iceskating.org.uk

PLEASE NOTE: Applications for this first cohort of our new Level 1 Grassroots Coach qualification are now closed. We expect to update on when applications will open for the next cohort in Autumn 2026. British Ice Skating (BIS) is proud to announce the launch of the new Level 1 Grassroots Coach Qualification — a major step forward in the redevelopment of our coaching pathway - with applications opening on April 27th 2026. This exciting new qualification builds on the foundations of the Assistant Coach award and marks the next stage in a coach’s journey, enabling successful learners to coach independently up to Novice level. The new Level 1 Grassroots qualification comes as part of our coaching pathway redevelopment which began in 2023 and aims to create a modern, transparent, and sustainable framework that supports participation at grassroots level while strengthening long-term performance development. Find out more about the pathway review. Here's everything you need to know about the new qualification: Designed for Accessibility A key priority of the new pathway is widening access to coaching. Entry requirements for the Level 1 Grassroots qualification have been updated to better reflect the practical skills needed at this stage. Applicants are now only required to hold National 4 standard (singles or ice dance), or equivalent — making the qualification more achievable for aspiring coaches without compromising quality. A High-Quality, Supportive Learning Experience The Level 1 Grassroots Coach Qualification has been carefully designed to deliver a comprehensive and engaging learning journey that reflects the latest ice skating knowledge and aligns with current industry standards. Learners will benefit from: - A blend of theoretical and practical learning - Extensive, professionally developed course materials - Access to BIS’s e-learning platform, featuring a wide range of development modules - Expert-led workshops delivered by leading coaches with national and international experience - Increased support and structured contact throughout the course What You’ll Achieve On completion of the Level 1 Grassroots qualification, coaches will be fully equipped to: - Independently deliver, and earn income from, coaching sessions for individuals, groups, and synchronised skating below Novice level - Support higher-level coaches working with Novice and above skaters - Begin working towards a Level 2 coaching qualification (details on our new Level 2 qualification are due to be released in Spring/Summer 2027). This qualification provides a strong, professional foundation for those looking to build a long-term coaching career within ice skating. Return on Investment The Level 1 Grassroots Coach Qualification is priced at £995 per person, reflecting the significant investment in content, delivery, and learner support. The course fee includes: - Your first year of coaching licence upon qualification - All written and practical assessments - Expert-led educational workshops tailored to course requirements, including additional CPD opportunities. - Multiple development courses via the BIS e-learning platform - Newly updated modules aligned with current best practice in coaching - A free first resit, if needed, for the on ice and off ice assessments. This all-inclusive approach ensures learners receive a premium learning experience with no hidden costs. How to Apply Applications will open on Monday 27th April. Applications made before this date will not be processed. Eligibility: To apply, learners must be a BIS member at a National 4 skating standard (singles or ice dance), or equivalent and hold the BIS Assistant Coach (or the previous Level 1 Assistant Coach) . Application Process: - Download and complete the Coach Qualification application form. - Log in to your Sport80 account - Click 'Coach Applications' - Click 'Add Coach Application' - Follow the on screen prompts. You will need your mentor's details (including their BIS No. and email address) and your completed application form by clicking "important forms & guidance". Please note, your mentor will need to sign your application form. - Once processed and approved you will be notified to pay for the application. Your place is not secured until payment is received. Start Your Coaching Journey The new Level 1 Grassroots Coach Qualification represents a significant step forward for coaching in UK ice skating — combining accessibility, expert-led education, and outstanding value. If you’re ready to take the next step in your coaching journey, this qualification offers the skills, experience, and support needed to succeed! I completed the previous BIS Level 1 qualification – why is my next step not called Level 2? As part of the pathway redevelopment, BIS has updated qualification titles to better reflect the content, responsibilities, and outcomes at each stage. While naming conventions have changed, moving onto the new Level 1 Grassroots Coach qualification will still represent a significant step forward in your coaching journey, both in terms of course content and what you will be qualified to coach on point of completion. How long will the qualification take to complete, and how will it be delivered? Completing the Level 1 Grassroots qualification is expected to take learners between 12-24 months, allowing flexibility to balance learning alongside other commitments. Much of the delivery will be virtual or completed at a learner’s home rink, though a few in-person days for learning, workshops and assessments will be required which may require travel. These dates will be made available shortly. What happens if I fail one of the assessments? If you fail one or both of your on-ice and off-ice assessments, you will be able to attempt the assessment(s) again for free. If an assessment is failed again, there will be a £50 fee to attempt it one final time. If a successful pass cannot be achieved at this point, learners would need to reapply and start the qualification again.

We are pleased to announce that exciting improvements are coming to British Ice Skating Skills Tests soon. A detailed review of National Skills Tests has been underway to identify potential improvements that will make them more accessible and relevant to the skating skills athletes need to succeed. The review was led by experienced judges and coaches, and has identified a number of developments which will give skaters and coaches greater flexibility. Figure skating is a rapidly evolving sport, and these changes will ensure our Skills Tests stay up to date and continue to provide skaters with a strong foundation for progress. The changes will be implemented from 1st October 2026 and will see a number of new exercise options added to the program; no exercises are being replaced or removed. Full details will be shared with members soon. In the meantime, we will be conducting online update sessions for coaches and officials on the upcoming changes: Online Update Sessions for Coaches & Officials If you are a coach or official, we encourage you to sign up to attend one of these sessions where the changes will be explained and you will have a chance to ask any questions you have. The sessions will be taking place: Friday 29th May – 10:30-11:30 Monday 1st June – 19:30-20:30 Wednesday 3rd June 14:00-15:00 Monday 8th June – 11:30-12:30 Monday 22nd June – 15:00-16:00 Sunday 28th June – 15:00-16:00 Tuesday 7th July – 11:00-12:00 Friday 10th July – 10:00-11:00 Please note, these sessions are only for BIS coaches and officials - a full update will be provided to the wider BIS membership at a later date. To sign up and receive the joining link for your chosen online session:

British Ice Skating is proud to support Clean Sport Week, taking place from 11–17 May 2026, the annual awareness campaign led by UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) that champions fair play, integrity and drug-free sport. This year's theme, ‘Built not bought. 100% me.’ celebrates athletes who achieve true, lasting success through hard work, talent and commitment. It sends a clear message: champions compete clean and don’t take shortcuts. Clean Sport Week 2026 comes at a critical time. There is growing concern across the sporting and fitness community, about the marketing and availability of Image and Performance Enhancing Drugs (IPEDs) online, including Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs). There is an increasing amount of content online promoting the use of SARMs to young people, with claims that these are ‘safer alternatives to anabolic steroids’. This is not the case. They are dangerous, not for human consumption and are banned in sport. UKAD is using Clean Sport Week to shine a light on this misinformation and to remind people not to risk their health, career and reputation by taking these substances. Don’t swallow the lies. British Ice Skating is committed to ensuring that athletes from elite competitors to grassroots participants and young fitness enthusiasts, have access to accurate information and are empowered to make healthy, drug-free choices. The message is simple: just don't risk it. True success is built, not bought. Throughout Clean Sport Week, British Ice skating will be promoting this message and sharing relevant resources across our channels to help everyone in our sport understand the importance of being Built, Not Bought. To find out more about Clean Sport Week and access resources, visit www.ukad.org.uk/clean-sport-week

The British Ice Skating Synchronized Skating Criteria for the 2026-27 season have now been released. Key changes include the addition of Synchro9 and updates to the crossover rule. There are no changes to the Skills Level requirements for 2026-2027. The new criteria can be found below and on our Technical Guidance page: We're looking forward to a fantastic season ahead!

Please note: applications for this cohort are now closed. Information about when applications will open for the next Assistant Coach cohort will be published as soon as we have news. Applications for places on the next cohort for our Assistant Coach qualification are now open. This cohort will begin their qualification June 2026. Full details about the qualification are available here: On successful completion of the course, Assistant Coaches will be fully licensed to independently teach, and earn money from teaching, the Skate UK programme. There are only a limited number of spaces available on the cohort, and applications will be accepted on a first come, first served basis, so we advise applying early to avoid disappointment. Qualification Cost: £500 Key Dates: Course material release 26/05/26 Induction June 2026 “The collective” Zoom session June 2026 In-person education day July 2026 Online safeguarding course TBD Assessment day TBD 2027 Eligibility: Applicants must be 16 by the course start date (26/05/26) and either hold BIS Skills 1 or able to pass the BIS Competency Test (to be taken alongside their written and practical exams on assessment day). Below you can find answers to frequently asked questions about the qualification - if you've got a question not answered here, get in touch with us at coaching@iceskating.org.uk Frequently Asked Questions: How old must I be to apply? You must be minimum 16 years old at the point of beginning the qualification. For Cohort 5 this means applicants must be 16 by 26th May 2026. How do I apply? Application Process: Log in to your Sport80 account Click 'Coach Applications' Click 'Add Coach Application' Follow the on screen prompts. You will need your mentor's details (including their BIS No. and email address) and your completed application form which can be found here by clicking "important forms & guidance". Please note, your mentor will need to sign your application form. Once processed and approved you will be notified to pay for the application. Your place is not secured until payment is received. Spaces on the cohort will be filled on a first come, first served basis, with a place only secured once payment has been completed. Applications cannot be submitted before 1pm 2nd December. How long will it take me to complete the Assistant Coach qualification? It will take you approximately nine months from start to finish (a little longer if you need to resit your assessment). How much does the qualification cost, and what is included? The Assistant Coach Qualification costs £500. This includes: modules and guidance freshly updated to reflect industry best practice the applicant’s license fee for their first year once qualified written and practical exams (including Competency Test if needed) education from experts in the field at the BIS Coaching Convention or a dedicated Education Day (cohort-dependent) multiple professional development courses Find out more about exactly what the course involves here. What does the Competency Test involve? The Competency Test will assess your ability to demonstrate necessary skating skills in a safe and controlled manner while maintaining awareness of the rink and skaters around you. To pass, you should be able to competently perform all of the required elements of Skate UK levels 1-8, while demonstrating situational awareness (for example, being able to stop in a controlled manner to assist a participant, or to avoid potential collisions). The Competency Test is only required for applicants who do not already hold a Level 1 National Skills test. This is to allow skaters from all backgrounds to begin their coaching journey here as long as they can demonstrate the necessary skating skills. What if my rink doesn't do Skate UK, or runs an older version of Skate UK? You do not have to be based at a BIS-approved rink to apply for or successfully achieve this qualification. The learn to skate programme at your rink should still cover the fundamentals of ice skating that must be learned and demonstrated in order to qualify; this learning must then be made evident in your recorded mentor hours. The Skate UK app may be helpful for tracking exactly what you need to cover. What are 'cohorts' and why are they capped at a limited number? Your cohort is the group of people studying the course at the same time as you. We limit the number of people in each group to ensure we can deliver the course to a high standard, providing you with quality contact time from instructors and staff and better value for money. Who can be my mentor? A mentor can be any BIS level 2+ coach who has been coaching for at least 5 years. Please check with your desired mentor that they meet this criteria and are happy to act as your mentor before applying.

We would like to make members aware of planned changes to the BIS events calendar for the 2026/27 season. In light of recent organisational changes and in an effort to align more closely with the ISU’s event strategy we are currently reviewing our events for the upcoming season and beyond. Why Are Things Changing? The review will aim to ensure British Ice Skating events offer the best competitive experience for skaters, providing a clear progress path that enables athletes at all levels to maximise their potential. This includes ensuring our pathways connect as seamlessly as possible with international competitive opportunities, which is dependent on the ISU’s event calendar and objectives. To this end, we are reviewing the dates and formats of BIS events for the 2026/27 season. Dependent on any relevant decisions made at the 2026 ISU Congress, further changes may be introduced for the 2027/28 season. What’s Changing We can confirm that our Championship events have been rescheduled and will now be provisionally taking place as follows: · British Figure Skating Championships: 1st-6th December 2026 · British Short Track Championships: 2nd-3rd January 2027 · British Synchronized Skating Championships: 6th-9th January 2027 · British Solo Ice Dance Championships and British Adult Figure Skating Championships dates to be confirmed soon. All other BIS events are now under review. We will aim to provide an update to members with the new dates and schedule for our events programme by the end of May. We are grateful to members for their patience as these exciting plans develop, and are looking forward to a successful season ahead!

British Ice Skating would like to update members on a series of important organisational changes that will shape how we operate moving forward. Following a recent and detailed review of the organisation’s financial position, it has become clear that action is required to ensure long-term sustainability. While this presents challenges, it also provides an opportunity to strengthen our foundations and build a more resilient and focused organisation for the future of ice skating in the UK. As part of this process, we are implementing a revised staffing structure and evolving the way we work across the organisation. This will include making more effective use of our resources, streamlining operations, and enhancing collaboration with our valued volunteer network. These changes are designed to ensure that we can continue to deliver for our members, support athletes and coaches, and invest in the development of the sport at all levels. Sadly, as a result of the restructure a number of valued colleagues will be leaving the organisation. We would like to place on record our sincere thanks to these individuals for their dedication, professionalism, and contribution to British Ice Skating. Their work has played a vital role in supporting and growing our sport, and they leave with our gratitude and best wishes for the future. We are committed to managing this transition responsibly and with respect for those affected. These are difficult but necessary steps being taken with a clear focus on safeguarding the long-term future of the organisation. By addressing these challenges now, we are positioning British Ice Skating to operate with greater clarity, stability, and purpose. We will move forward with a commitment to reducing organisational overhead costs while staying member-focused and delivering high professional standards. As part of the new structure, some roles will be opened for recruitment in the coming weeks. We look forward to sharing further details with members shortly and encourage those interested in contributing to the future of the sport to consider these opportunities, which will include a Corporate Services Director. We thank all members for their support and understanding during this period of change – we will continue to keep you informed as we move forward.

British Ice Skating are pleased to announce a significant expansion of our Virtual Tests! In 2024 virtual Skills Tests were piloted, introducing the option for skaters to complete their Skills Tests at a time and place that suit them best. After a successful pilot that allowed us to refine and improve the system, we are excited to now be fully launching Virtual Tests. Virtual tests are now available, with skaters able to now choose the option of a Virtual Test for these test types: ➡️ Skills Tests ➡️ Technical Tests ➡️ Component Tests Please note, Dance Tests will not yet be available through the Virtual Test system. We will keep members updated on progress in this area. To apply for a virtual test, members should use the usual Test booking system and select the test centre ‘Virtual Tests’. For full information on how Virtual Tests work, including answers to frequently asked question and a manual for how to successfully complete a virtual test: As this represents a significant expansion of the Virtual Test system, we recognise there may be some initial challenges. We appreciate your patience and understanding during this time.Thank you for your continued support. 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. Why Are Virtual Tests Being Introduced? 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, disability or other considerations. 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.

24/04/26 British Ice Skating has written to North Lanarkshire council to express our concerns regarding the proposed closure of the Time Capsule ice rink in Coatbridge. The letter can be found in full below. Concerned about the proposed closure? A petition to save the ice rink has also been launched that you can sign: Open Letter to North Lanarkshire Council Re: The Future of the Time Capsule Ice Rink, Coatbridge Dear Councillors, On behalf of British Ice Skating, we are writing to express our concern regarding the proposed closure of the ice rink at the Time Capsule in Coatbridge, and to contribute constructively to the ongoing discussion about its future. We welcome the Council’s decision to delay any immediate determination and to allow for a more thorough and balanced assessment of the available options. This is a significant decision with long-term implications, and it is right that it is informed by full consideration of stakeholder views and community impact. British ice skating is currently experiencing renewed success on the international stage, with athletes such as Niall Treacy, Lilah Fear and Lewis Gibson achieving some of the country’s strongest results in decades. This progress reflects a growing sport, underpinned by access to local facilities that enable participation and development from grassroots through to elite level. The Time Capsule rink plays a vital role in this pathway. It supports a wide range of users, from figure skaters to synchronised skating teams and ice hockey teams, with a high teenage and adult female participation rate as well as provision for demographics that research has identified as ‘hard to reach’ to engage in physical activity. These groups represent not only participation pathways but also social and developmental opportunities for individuals of all ages and abilities. The removal of a facility such as this has implications not only locally, but across the wider ecosystem of the sport in Scotland and the UK. We would respectfully suggest that further evidence could support a fully informed decision, including: The economic and social value generated by ice sports participation at the facility A review of the current operating model, including consideration of changes that could be made to grow participation or improve viability The long-term impact on participation pathways and talent development We would welcome a clearer understanding of what consultation and research has already been conducted, and would be pleased to support the Council in exploring sustainable solutions that retain ice provision while addressing financial challenges. In closing, we reiterate our appreciation for the decision to review the situation carefully. We strongly encourage continued engagement with clubs, users, and governing bodies to ensure that any outcome reflects both the needs of the community and the long-term future of sport and physical activity in North Lanarkshire. In the interests of transparency this letter will also be shared with the British Ice Skating community and published publicly. Yours sincerely, Maggie Still CEO British Ice Skating  Petition: Save The Time Capsule Ice Rink

Applications are now open for the third round of athlete funding for the John Hayward Athlete Support Fund.   After a successful launch in 2024, British Ice Skating are pleased to once again host the Athlete Support Fund through a donation made by The John Hayward Memorial Challenge. The fund was set up ‘to support up and coming skaters to reach their potential within figure skating and help reduce financial barriers associated with competitive skating’.  Thanks to the John Hayward Memorial Challenge Charity, this funding will be made available via British Ice Skating. Now in its third year, we are excited to invite new and previous applicants (including those who were awarded a grant) to put themselves forward for this year’s funding opportunity. About John Hayward When John Hayward was growing up, he was a lively, exuberant youngster, always full of fun and laughter; when he discovered ice skating, the sheer joy of performing and entertaining on skates became the focus of his life. His family supported and encouraged him as he worked hard, not just on the ice but, once he became old enough, in various jobs to help pay for extra training, extra practice time and additional equipment such as stilts (yes stilts - he used them in one of his on-ice gala performances!) Sadly, shortly after celebrating his 30th birthday the family were devastated to learn of John's untimely death in France. The words that sprang to mind for all who knew and worked with him were ‘what a waste. A waste of talent - and of a vibrant young life!' It was John’s zest for life, love of performing and dedication to his skating that prompted the family to set up the Fund and here we are now, helping to bring it to the BIS Membership. About the John Hayward Memorial Challenge The charity’s sole aim is to support a child's willingness to learn a recreatio nal  activity when there are limited funds available. The charity was established in the name of John Hayward, a young man who had a passion for ice skating. John’s journey to become a world class ice performer was supported by hard work and love. For so many, it wasn’t easy. The Trust's aim is not to make learning easy, but to provide the access to the necessary skills and equipment when they are not available in your local area. In this third funding cycle, there are 6 individual awards of £500 to be presented to skaters. Please see the criteria and application form below. Funding Details 6 awards of £500 will be made to selected athletes to support their competitive skating. To be spent within 12 months of the funds being awarded. The funds must be spent on: Skating equipment Training camps Competition entries  Skating related travel expenses Additional skating related learning opportunities   Eligibility Criteria Athletes applying for the fund must meet the eligibility criteria below: Aged between 7 - 14 years (sporting age). Minimum Skating level: 7-8 years old (sporting age): BIS level 1 skills. 9-11 years old (sporting age): BIS level 3 skills. 12 – 14 years old (sporting age): BIS level 5 skills. Must be in full-time education (a requirement of the charity). Hold valid BIS membership. Not be serving any suspensions relating to Anti-Doping or disciplinary offences.   Application and Selection To apply, complete an application form and submit it to Andrew.Hibberd@iceskating.org.uk by 11 th  May .   Applications that are incomplete or received after the deadline will not be considered for funding. However, this does not mean that you cannot reapply for the next funding cycle. The Selection Panel will be made up of representatives of British Ice Skating - across all Figure Skating disciplines and will be announced before the close of applications. Selection will be based on the following criteria: The need for financial support to continue training and competitive opportunities. Results and progression through British Ice Skating pathways and Club competitions.   Got any questions or need any assistance with your application? Just get in touch with Andrew Hibberd on Andrew.Hibberd@iceskating.org.uk