Our Classes
At DSDC, our classes challenge each individual to broaden their understanding of the world and break free from the “one-size-fits-all” approach found in the traditional high school education model
All classes are conducted online via Zoom. Students are given personalized individual feedback every class.
Debate Classes
Novice (Grades 4 to 6)
Our novice class is an excellent choice for younger scholars eager to get a head start on cultivating public speaking and debate skills. The class’s primary focus is on the fundamentals of public speaking and formats of debate, as well as the effective execution of speeches. Often, our students come with brilliant ideas, but are unsure of how to best execute them. Our coaches help our young students develop confidence in themselves while fostering development in practical public speaking and debate skills. Every child, even the introverted and shy, can benefit from this class.
Junior (Grades 7-9)
Our junior class is an excellent choice for debaters who are eager to build competitive debate skills and learn about subjects outside of the traditional school system. This class builds on the foundations of essential debate skills and formats while accelerating academic growth as a whole. Coaches begin to integrate challenging topics, such as International Relations, Law, Philosophy, Economics, as well as Social Systems and Infrastructure, within debate classes. Our students will also have unique opportunities to compete in tournaments, volunteer, and expand their breadth of knowledge as they prepare for university and beyond.
Senior (Grades 10-12)
Our senior classes are perfect for students who are more comfortable with public speaking and want to excel in the world of debate. This class is more rigorous for our students, as it pushes them to question what they already know to excel in the complex and nuanced distinctions that debate demands. Senior classes focus on consistent practices debates in formats such as British Parliamentary, CNDF, and World Schools, as well as advanced lectures on International Relations, Law, Philosophy, Economics, as well as Social Systems and Infrastructure. The competitive nature this class cultivates is sure to support our talented debaters who are ready to shine at tournaments.
Advanced Competitive (Grades 10-12)
Our Advanced Competitive Class is designed for students who are deeply committed to mastering the art of competitive debate. This immersive program is ideal for students with ambitious goals, such as competing in and winning awards in national and international tournaments.
In this class, students will engage in rigorous practice, critical analysis, and strategic thinking, led by world-renowned debaters who have excelled at globally recognized university competitions. The coaching team consists of experienced mentors with international accolades, bringing firsthand knowledge of debate at the highest level. This class offers unparalleled opportunities for students; through intensive drills, mock debates, intense lectures on challenging topics, and personalised feedback, students will refine their argumentation skills, learn advanced debating techniques, and develop the confidence needed to excel in high-stakes environments.
If you’re serious about taking your debating to the next level, this is the class where you’ll find the guidance, resources, and competitive edge to achieve your goals!
Other Classes
World Scholar’s Cup (Grades 4-12)
Every child can benefit from the immersive experience of the World Scholar’s Cup. Excelling in this prestigious competition requires rigorous preparation and training. It all starts with 4 distinct competition areas in a regional competition, but sooner or later, students find themselves in a Global Round. They could travel anywhere from Beijing to Amsterdam to Sydney. Our most exceptional scholars qualify for the Tournament of Champions at Yale University! This class fully prepares students for this competition with research-informed pedagogical practices seamlessly integrated into each lesson, activity, and homework. We love seeing students move beyond their expectations for themselves! Over the past 5 years, we are proud to have achieved a 100% qualification rate, spanning both regional and global levels, as well as from global to ToC.
Public Speaking (Grades 4-9)
Every student can thrive with the transformative experience of competitive public speaking. Excelling at speech provincials in BC requires dedicated preparation across the four distinct formats: persuasive, interpretive, impromptu, and parliamentary debate. Whether presenting a heartfelt speech or thinking on your feet, success comes from mastering technique, confidence, and adaptability. This class is designed to fully equip students for the challenges of provincials, helping them refine their skills and exceed their own expectations. No matter where this journey takes you, it’s an opportunity to grow, shine, and achieve greatness in the art of public speaking!
DSDC 