A Course Designed to Build Confidence, Leadership, and Future-Ready Skills
In today’s world, ideas alone aren’t enough — the ability to express them clearly, confidently, and persuasively is what sets people apart.
That’s why the Debate & Public Speaking course at Ivy Summer School is one of our most transformative. For students aged 13–18, it offers far more than just practice behind a podium. It’s a powerful foundation for life beyond the classroom — in interviews, universities, boardrooms, and public arenas.
Why Debate Matters — Especially Now
Too often, students are taught what to think, but not how to communicate what they believe. At Ivy, we teach students how to speak with purpose, listen with precision, and engage in meaningful dialogue with others who may disagree.
This isn’t about scripted speeches or memorised points — it’s about learning to think clearly under pressure, respond thoughtfully in real-time, and communicate with clarity, structure, and presence.
For families who value leadership, global awareness, and personal growth, this course builds the confidence and communication skills their child will need to thrive in every future setting — from school to university, from interviews to influence.
What Students Will Learn
In small, supportive seminar groups led by expert instructors, students will:
🗣️ Practise persuasive speaking techniques — including tone, posture, pacing, and presence
⚖️ Learn how to structure arguments — with clarity, evidence, and logical flow
💬 Participate in formal debates — including rebuttal, cross-examination, and response
🌍 Discuss global issues — from climate policy to human rights, using current events as prompts
🎤 Gain confidence in spontaneous speaking — from classroom presentations to leadership pitches
This is not a drama-based speech course. It’s grounded in critical thinking, public engagement, and real-world relevance.
Real-World Benefits That Go Beyond Summer
For families preparing their children for competitive schools, international universities, or professional careers, this course offers unique long-term advantages:
- Students improve interview readiness — learning how to answer clearly, calmly, and with impact
- They develop a presence that stands out — whether in classroom discussions, social settings, or academic panels
- They gain a global mindset — exploring both sides of complex issues through respectful disagreement
- They return home more self-assured, articulate, and focused
And most importantly, they leave with a skill that will continue to pay dividends — no matter which path they choose.
Confidence Doesn’t Appear — It’s Built
One of the greatest transformations we see at Ivy is the quiet student who finds their voice — not through shouting, but through structure, support, and practice.
In our Debate & Public Speaking course, students are encouraged to take risks in a safe environment, to challenge their thinking, and to learn how to lead discussions — not just participate in them.
By the end of the course, they receive:
• Renewed self-belief and the confidence to speak up in any room
• A personalised academic report and graduation certificate
• Meaningful experience in speaking, writing, and critical reasoning
An Investment in Leadership, Expression, and Self-Belief
For families who value personal growth as much as academic excellence, this course offers something rare: a chance to help your child become not just more intelligent — but more expressive, more aware, and more prepared.
📍 Held in Oxford, UK | 🎓 Ages 13–18 | 🛏 Fully Residential
🎤 Summer 2026 Programme Now Enrolling
👉 Explore the full course — limited places available.