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Home > Setting Up A Debate Club – A Guide For Secondary Schools

Setting Up A Debate Club – A Guide For Secondary Schools

A group of Debate Academy students (male and female) sitting under a tree outside the building.
Debate-Academy-2017-group-shot1

How to Start a Debate Club in Secondary School

Starting a debate club in secondary school offers students a fantastic opportunity to develop essential skills such as critical thinking, public speaking, and teamwork. A debating club fosters an environment where young people can engage with current issues, listen to diverse perspectives, and learn how to argue thoughtfully and respectfully. Whether students are looking to improve their communication skills or compete in tournaments, a well-run debate club can have a lasting impact.

If you’re wondering how to start a debate club, begin by outlining the purpose of the club and setting clear goals. Creating a space where students feel comfortable sharing ideas and engaging in friendly competition is key. Begin with introductory meetings to introduce the basics of debating, explain different styles and formats, and give students a chance to get familiar with the rules and structures. Once the students are comfortable, you can dive into more structured debates on interesting and relevant topics that resonate with them, such as social justice, climate change, or technology.

A group of debate academy students (male and female) gathered outside the building.

In addition to formal debates, there are many engaging debate club activities that can help students build their skills. Consider organizing practice debates, group discussions, or research sessions where students can explore different perspectives. You might also introduce activities that focus on developing specific skills, such as argument construction, rebuttals, or public speaking techniques. By providing a mix of activities, students will have the opportunity to strengthen both their debating and leadership abilities.

As you begin to run a debate club, it’s important to keep students motivated and ensure that they’re actively participating. Encourage them to take on various roles within the club, whether it’s as a speaker, a researcher, or a judge. This creates a sense of responsibility and keeps the sessions dynamic. Additionally, make sure to provide regular feedback and recognize their progress, whether in casual debates or formal competitions.

Our guide for secondary schools offers in-depth advice on everything from organizing your first meeting to running ongoing activities, making it a great resource for anyone starting a debate club. The guide also provides ideas for keeping students engaged, creating a collaborative environment, and fostering a spirit of friendly competition.


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