DSDC teaches students across the full Grade 4 to Grade 12 range. We also have a public speaking program for younger students who want to build confidence before moving into full debate. Rather than forcing every child into the same curriculum, we use four age-and-experience bands so students grow with peers who are at a similar stage.
Novice (Grades 4-6)
Novice is our on-ramp for younger students and complete beginners. Classes build the fundamentals - speaking clearly, making a structured argument, listening to the other side, and responding politely under pressure. Many Novice families choose this level for a child who needs more confidence in school presentations or who is ready to try something more intellectual than a typical enrichment class.
Junior (Grades 7-9)
Junior classes move into competitive debate formats and more challenging topics. Students learn to build cases, rebut opposing arguments, and take Points of Information in formats used at real tournaments. This is the level where many DSDC students first compete at provincial or national events.
Senior (Grades 10-12)
Senior classes cover the major tournament formats used at the Canadian National Debate Championships, BC Provincials, OSDU tournaments, and international events. Students train in CNDF, British Parliamentary, World Schools, and Cross-Examination formats, often while preparing for university applications.
Advanced Competitive (Grades 10-12)
Our most rigorous level, designed for students who are deeply committed to competitive debate. Classes run twice per week and focus on advanced argumentation, elite-level case construction, and high-stakes practice rounds. Many Advanced Competitive students are training for Canadian Nationals, World Schools Debating Championships, or the Tournament of Champions at Yale via the World Scholar's Cup.
If you are not sure which level fits your child, the easiest way to find out is a free 15-minute consultation. We place each student based on their grade, confidence, and experience rather than assuming one-size-fits-all.