VIRTUAL TESTS

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.

Starting from week beginning 7th October 2024 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.

Below you can find more information about what the move to virtual tests will look like and why we are moving in this direction.

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.

Detailed information on what the virtual test process will involve can be found here:

Virtual Test Guidance

When Will Virtual Tests Be Introduced?

As of the week beginning 7th October 2024, the first virtual Skills Tests will be made available 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 they are fit for purpose before we launch virtual testing more broadly.

Skaters eligible for the first wave of virtual tests will be contacted directly with more information.

Eventually, virtual Skills Tests will be available to all skaters, followed by virtual versions of our other tests, though members should be aware that this may take some time. The exact timeline will depend on the success of our initial rollout; additional communications will be delivered when further updates are available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below you can find answers to key questions about the introduction of virtual tests and how they will work. If your question is not answered here or in the guidance above, please submit your query via the below form; we will add to our FAQs on a rolling basis to provide updated answers.

Submit Your Question

Where can I find more information?

Any updated information will be posted on all British Ice Skating channels including the Facebook page, Twitter, Instagram and website. A range of documents, including the Return to Training advice, can be found in the Resource Centre on the BIS website. For other coronavirus updates and information you should visit the government website at www.gov.uk/coronavirus.
Can I skate in England?

England entered a national lockdown on 6th January with people required to stay at home other than for reasons such as shopping for essentials, going to work or exercising outdoors with your household. Only elite skaters are still able to train, more information can be found here.
What is the disability exemption in England?

If you are going to skate in England under the disability sport exemption you will need to identify your disability that comes under the Equality Act 2010 with the ice rink in which you want to train. The rinks will then verify and approve the exemption based on evidence that the disability is recognised under the Equality Act 2010
What are the rules in place in Scotland?

Scotland has been placed in a lockdown for the whole of January and residents must follow “a legal requirement to stay at home except for essential reasons”. This means that all ice rinks must close.
What are the rules that apply in Wales?

At the moment all rinks in Wales are closed. From Sunday 20th December Wales entered a national lockdown with residents told to "stay at home". Travelling is only allowed for essential purposes, such as for work and for caring responsibilities. International travel is also not allowed.
What is British Ice Skating doing to help?

We continue to work to help as many people stay on the ice as possible. This includes regular contact with government departments, rinks, coaches and skaters. If you have a specific question you can contact the team on our contact page.
Is any emergency funding available to help clubs?

Sport England has released a £16.5 million fund to support groups, clubs and organisations who’ve been impacted by restrictions brought in to tackle the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic. Applications can be made at www.sportengland.org/news/return-play-fund-launched Sport Wales has created the Be Active Wales Fund that will invest £4million in community and grassroots sport to help restart activity. More information can be found at www.sport.wales/beactivewalesfund/
How long will these rules be in place?

The national lockdown in England will be reviewed on 15th February. Restrictions are in place in Scotland until at least the end of January and could yet be extended both in scope and duration.