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Debate Classes for Kids in Canada

Live online debate and public speaking classes for students in Grades 4-12 across every province. Small classes, award-winning coaches, proven results.

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Why Canadian Families Choose DSDC

DSDC is Canada's leading online youth debate training program. Founded in Vancouver in 2017, we've coached over 5,000 students from more than 30 cities across Canada — from Vancouver and Surrey to Toronto, Calgary, Ottawa, and beyond. Our kids debate program combines expert instruction with small class sizes so every student receives personalized feedback every session.

Unlike traditional debate clubs that rely on volunteer coaches, DSDC's classes are led by award-winning competitive debaters from top Canadian universities. Our coaches have competed at Canadian Nationals, US Nationals, World Schools, and the World Scholar's Cup Tournament of Champions at Yale. This depth of experience means your child learns from debaters who have succeeded at the highest levels.

All classes are delivered live online via Zoom, making high-quality debate coaching accessible to families in every province and territory. Whether you live in downtown Toronto or rural Alberta, your child can participate in the same program that has produced national champions and World Scholar's Cup global qualifiers.

Debate Programs for Every Level

Novice Debate (Grades 4-7)

For students with no debate experience. Builds foundational skills in argumentation, public speaking, and critical thinking through fun, structured exercises.

Learn about beginner classes →

Intermediate Debate (Grades 7-9)

Students learn formal debate formats (CNDF, British Parliamentary) and begin competing in regional tournaments. Focus on research, rebuttal, and persuasive delivery.

View class schedule →

Advanced Debate (Grades 9-12)

Tournament-focused preparation for Canadian Nationals, US Nationals, and international competitions. Advanced argumentation, case strategy, and competitive practice rounds.

Explore advanced programs →

Public Speaking (Grades 4-9)

Dedicated public speaking classes for students who want to build confidence, leadership, and presentation skills without competitive debate.

Public speaking classes →

Serving Students Across Canada

While our classes are 100% online, we've built dedicated pages for families in major regions to learn how DSDC fits local debate ecosystems and tournaments.

Vancouver & BCToronto & GTACalgaryOttawaOntarioAlberta

Key Facts

Founded
2017, Vancouver, Canada
Format
Live online via Zoom
Class size
8-12 students
Ages
Grades 4-12 and university students
Pricing
$30-50 CAD/hr (group classes)
Formats taught
CNDF, British Parliamentary, World Schools, Cross-Examination
Location
Vancouver, BC, Canada
Service area
All provinces across Canada via online classes

Frequently Asked Questions

What ages are DSDC debate classes for?
DSDC offers debate and public speaking classes for students in Grades 4 through 12. We have separate programs for elementary (Grades 4-6), intermediate (Grades 7-9), and senior (Grades 10-12) students.
Can students from any province in Canada join?
Yes. All DSDC classes are delivered live online via Zoom, so students from British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, Quebec, and every other province and territory can participate. We have students from over 30 cities across Canada.
How much do debate classes cost in Canada?
DSDC group debate classes range from $30 to $50 CAD per hour, depending on the program level. Private coaching is also available. See our pricing page for full details.
What debate formats do you teach?
We teach Canadian National Debate Format (CNDF), British Parliamentary, World Schools, and Cross-Examination. Students learn the format most relevant to their age and competition goals.
Do students need prior debate experience?
No experience is needed. Our Novice Debate program is designed specifically for beginners. Many students start with no debate experience and progress to compete at national and international tournaments.
How are online debate classes structured?
Each class is 1 to 1.5 hours long, held live on Zoom with 8-12 students per class. Students receive direct coaching feedback every session. Classes run weekly during the school year.

Ready to Get Started?

Book a free consultation to find the right debate or public speaking class for your child. No commitment, no pressure.

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