Durham Academy Speech & Debate Offerings
Durham Academy Speech & Debate offers students a variety of ways to participate — whether they are simply looking to build confidence for public speaking, or they aspire to compete on a national stage.
National Upper School Speech & Debate Team
Grades 9, 10, 11 & 12 (By Application)
Our National Speech & Debate Team is a selective program for Upper School students who demonstrate advanced performance and commitment to competitive speech and debate. Admission is determined through an application, audition, or qualification via tournament results. Team members receive expanded training, including targeted coaching sessions, goal-setting meetings, and enrichment in areas such as psychology, leadership, and strategy. Students compete in both local and national events, including national circuit tournaments, round robins, the Tournament of Champions, and major championships such as the TFL State Championship, NCFL Grand National Tournament, and NSDA National Tournament. Members must attend multiple weekly practices, full-team events, and all Triangle-area tournaments, as well as participate in school-hosted competitions like the Cavalier Invitational. With trimester-based participation blocks, students may tailor their season to balance other academic and extracurricular commitments while maintaining academic eligibility and meeting the highest behavioral and ethical standards in competition.
Upper School Speech & Debate Team
Grades 9, 10, 11 & 12
Our Speech & Debate Team is open to all Upper School students interested in exploring the art of public speaking, argumentation, and competitive performance. Students gain exposure to a variety of events while participating in local tournaments and select national opportunities, with a focus on success at the TFL State Championship, NCFL Grand National Tournament, and NSDA National Speech & Debate Tournament. Team members meet regularly for practices and full-team meetings, building skills in research, persuasion, and presentation. Participation includes competing in local Triangle-area tournaments, contributing to school-hosted events such as the Cavalier Invitational, and attending showcase events. Students must maintain academic eligibility and uphold team expectations to remain active members of this dynamic and collaborative community.
Middle School Speech & Debate Elective Course
Grades 7 & 8
Our Speech & Debate elective serves as an engaging introduction to the world of communication, public speaking, debate events, and speech events. Designed as a survey course, students build collaboration skills through project-based learning while exploring multiple formats of speaking. This course lays the foundation for confident, effective communication in both academic and real-world settings. Students register for this course in their registration process in the spring term.
Competitive Middle School Speech & Debate Team
Grades 7 & 8 (By Application)
For students seeking the challenge and excitement of competition, our competitive Speech & Debate team offers the chance to train, compete, and excel at a high level. Admission is selective, with applications due in early September. Team members commit to a regular practice schedule and represent our school in competitions throughout the year, developing advanced speaking, argumentation, and performance skills.
Middle School Speech & Debate After-School Enrichment
Grades 5 & 6
Speech & Debate Fundamentals introduces younger students to the essentials of public speaking and critical thinking in a fun, supportive environment. Through activities, presentations, and collaborative exercises, participants develop skills that will benefit them throughout their education. This After-School Enrichment program also serves as an excellent pathway for students considering future participation in our Middle and Upper School Speech & Debate programs. This class is part of the Durham Academy After-School Enrichments Program.