Debate Classes FAQ

Apex Thought offers programs for children and teens from age 5 through 18+. Our Critical & Creative Thinking classes start from age 5–8, Debate Discovery covers ages 9–11, Speak Smart is for ages 12–14, Young Orators League is for ages 15–17, and Voices of Tomorrow is for ages 18 and above.

No prior experience is needed for our beginner programs. Debate Discovery (ages 9–11) and Speak Smart (ages 12–14) are designed for complete beginners. Students who already have some debate experience can join the Young Orators League (ages 15–17) or our Competitive Debating track. Contact us and we will help you find the right starting point.

Absolutely , many of our best debaters started as shy students. Our Foundation-level programs are specifically designed to build confidence gradually through supportive activities, games, and low-pressure practice. One of our students, Yee Lynn (age 12, ISKL), shares: "I was extremely shy and scared to speak in front of people. Apex helped me step out of my comfort zone, not with force, but with patience and kindness."

Prices start from RM 180/month for our Public Speaking Speak Smart workshop (4 classes/month). Regular debate programs (Debate Discovery, Speak Smart, Young Orators League, Voices of Tomorrow) are RM 360/month for Sunday classes. The Summer Debate Camp is RM 650 per camp. Intensive 1-on-1 and small group training is available , call Dr Shantini at 019-352-8502 for pricing.

All regular programs run on Sundays only. Public Speaking Speak Smart runs 11am–12pm. Critical & Creative Thinking for kids 5–8 runs 12 noon–1pm. Contact us for specific timings for the debate programs as these vary by group level.

Group Sunday classes follow a structured curriculum shared with peers, which builds teamwork, listening, and real debate dynamics. Intensive 1-on-1 or small group training (2 pax, 4 pax) is tailored to an individual student's specific weaknesses and upcoming competition needs. We recommend group classes for foundational learning and intensive sessions for competition preparation.

Classes are held at WONIQ, Level 3A, Glo Damansara, TTDI, Kuala Lumpur. We serve students from across Klang Valley including Petaling Jaya, Subang Jaya, Shah Alam, Bangsar, Mont Kiara, TTDI, and Cheras. Summer camps are available both online and in-person.

Yes. Our Summer Debate Camps are available both online and in-person. Intensive training sessions can also be conducted online. Regular Sunday programs are currently in-person at our TTDI venue. Contact us to discuss your preferred format.

British Parliamentary (BP) debate is the world's most widely used competitive debate format, used at the World Universities Debating Championships (WUDC) and WSDC. Four teams of two speakers argue in a structured format: Opening Government, Opening Opposition, Closing Government, and Closing Opposition. It develops critical thinking, quick argumentation, and persuasive speaking. Apex Thought specialises in BP debate alongside Asian Parliamentary (AP) and World Schools (WSDC) formats.

Our students compete in major local and international competitions including: THBPO (Thailand British Parliamentary Open, Bangkok), SIDO (Shanghai International Debate Open, China), MSSD Nationals, IIUM IDC (IIUM International Debate Championship), Kamalig Novice BP (Philippines), MIPSDC, and MNSBP. Our students have competed in 5 countries across Asia.

Debate training builds critical thinking, research skills, structured argumentation, active listening, and confident communication , skills that directly improve academic performance across all subjects. Students develop the ability to analyse issues from multiple perspectives, construct logical arguments, and present ideas clearly under pressure. These skills are invaluable for school presentations, essays, university interviews, and leadership roles.

Apex Thought was founded by Dr Shantini Karalasingam, who holds a PhD from the University of Nottingham, a Master of Education in Guidance & Counselling (UM), a Diploma in Education (UM), and a B. Arts (Hons) from UM. Dr Shantini and her partners founded Apex Thought after witnessing how debate transformed students , giving them confidence, clarity of thought, and powerful communication skills.

Yes. Apex Thought offers school workshop partnerships and intensive coaching programs for school debate teams preparing for competitions like MSSD, MIPSDC, MNSBP, and IIUM IDC. Contact Dr Shantini at 019-352-8502 or apexthoughtasia@gmail.com to discuss your school's needs.

The easiest way is to WhatsApp us at +60 19-352-8502 or call Dr Shantini directly at 019-352-8502. You can also email apexthoughtasia@gmail.com or fill in the contact form on our website. We will help you choose the right program and schedule a trial session.