High School Outreach

The UBCDS recognizes local primary and secondary schools in BC as an integral part of the debate community and an ideal setting for young debaters to begin, train, and compete. We strive to make high-level debate financially accessible, to encourage excellence, and to build a supportive community.

We invite all teachers, coaches, administrators, parents, and students to all take part in our community. Please join our mailing list at the bottom of this page. This mailing list is our primary point of contact for high school debate, and is how we will send out important information about upcoming events.

High School Tournaments

The Fall High School Tournament happens in early November and is one of the largest in North America. This tournament is highly competitive and is fantastic practice for students who are sharpening their skills for the upcoming debate season. With five preliminary rounds across two days, the UBCDS strives to create a learning environment for every level of debater who registers. Anyone is welcome to apply, as long as you have a partner and a school to represent.

The Spring High School Tournament happens in early April. Much like Fall HST, there are five rounds across two days with a competitive pool of debaters. This tournament is good practice for students who want to continue competing after the close of the formal debate season in BC. Students can register either on behalf of their school or independently as a team of two.

The Summer High School Tournaments happens in late August. This is the smallest of our high school tournaments, designed to allow debaters to continue practicing their skills over summer break and receive detailed feedback from our qualified UBCDS volunteers.

Elementary School Tournaments

Each year we host one tournaments for local elementary school students, usually over the Summer. Our EST is the perfect tournament for young debaters just beginning their public speaking careers with a friendly and education-focused atmosphere, with selected Grade 11 and 12 students also invited to take on leadership roles. All debaters grades 4-7 may apply, as long as you have a partner and school to represent.

Questions/Feedback?

With any questions regarding High School Debate, please contact our High School Outreach Coordinator at outreach@ubcdebate.com