For Debaters > DEP

Debate Excellence Programme (DEP)

What is DEP? The DA(S) runs an annual training program called DEP to groom a select few debaters to reach even higher standards. DEP takes good student debaters beyond the fundamentals to the realm of advanced skills and techniques. These skills will improve the style, content and strategy of each DEP student.

Who coaches DEP? DEP is coached by a team of the most senior coaches in Singapore who make up the exco members of the DA(S). Each year, 4-5 coaches are chosen to take on the small group of 20+ DEP students. This high coach-to-student ratio ensures that each student can receive more personalised attention.

Who should apply for DEP? If you are a good student debater (preferably with competitive experience in local competitions) with a keen interest in learning more about debate, you should apply. Although our applications are open (anybody can come for selections), we encourage mainly school team debaters in Sec 3, Sec 4 or JC1 (or the equivalent, for international school systems) to apply to avoid disappointment. Speakers who were ranked in previous competitions (such as the Julia Gabriel's) are strongly encouraged to apply.

Track Record of Success. Many (if not most) of our DEP students end up winning championships or even representing Singapore in international debate competitions. In 2007, 4 of the 5 members of the Singapore National Team were from DEP, and they did us proud by reaching the Grand Finals of the World Schools Debating Championships.

DEP 2007

Apply for DEP 2008

- Applications Forms are available online. Fill in the form and email it to outreach@debates.org.sg or bring the hardcopy with you on the selection day.

- Selections will be held on Sun Nov 16th at Raffles Institution. Check the forum for updates and details.