International Classes
How Our International Classes Work
The basic unit for a Westfield class is six to eight students. This is both because this number of speakers works well for debate and also because we’ve found it’s an excellent size to encourage active engagement in a virtual format.
Are you ready to start Debate and/or Model UN? We have two options for you…
Option 1: Join an existing international class
Questions? Click here to reach out to our coordinator, Brittany. She’ll be happy to answer any questions you might have about the program and help you determine the best class for your child based on age and experience.
If these classes don’t work for your schedule, look into Option 2!
If you already have a group of 6 students or more: Click here to reach out to Brittany and share with her the number of students, their ages, and a list of class times that works for you.
You will then be paired with an experienced Westfield instructor, who will put together a custom, virtual class for your students. The class content will be tailored to the students’ skill levels and interests, as well as adjusted to fit with the requirements of any local debate leagues, and based on Westfield’s signature curriculum.
If you have less than 6 students: Click here to reach out to Brittany and she will work to connect your students with other interested parties. Once we have a big enough group with compatible schedules, ages, and interests, we’ll get you matched with an instructor and your class will get started!
Please also note that admissions for all our classes are rolling; if you are interested in joining, it is never too late!
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Time: Tuesdays, 8–9:30am Eastern Time
(8–9:30pm China Standard Time)
(5:30 – 7:00pm India Standard Time)
Tuesday Class Schedule:
Fall Term: 9/03/24 - 2/11/25
Spring Term: 2/18/25 - 6/17/25
(tuition is charged per term)Instructor: Ryan Lafferty
Class Description: This class focuses on developing and improving debating, oral advocacy and public speaking skills. We concentrate on learning/refining how to construct persuasive arguments and how to refute them; an emphasis is placed on having each student debate frequently. Debate topics span a wide range, including current events, philosophy and politics. Debaters are encouraged to develop an understanding of many disciplines such as economics, current events, history, geopolitics, philosophy and international affairs. Many interdisciplinary subjects will be discussed in class. We will prepare together for local and global debate competitions (although it is not mandatory to compete). Students of all levels are welcome to register. We find that students make great progress not only in the development of their public speaking and debate skills but also in their academic subjects as they grow as critical and analytical thinkers. Depending on the number of students and their levels, classes can be subdivided based on experience.
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Time:
Tuesdays, 8–9:30am Eastern Time
(8–9:30pm China Standard Time)
(5:30 – 7:00pm India Standard Time)
Tuesday Class Schedule:
Fall Term: 9/03/24 - 2/11/25
Spring Term: 2/18/25 - 6/17/25
(tuition is charged per term)Instructor: Ryan Lafferty
Class Description: This class focuses on developing and improving debating, oral advocacy and public speaking skills. We concentrate on learning/refining how to construct persuasive arguments and how to refute them; an emphasis is placed on having each student debate frequently. Debate topics span a wide range, including current events, philosophy and politics. Debaters are encouraged to develop an understanding of many disciplines such as economics, current events, history, geopolitics, philosophy and international affairs. Many interdisciplinary subjects will be discussed in class. We will prepare together for local and global debate competitions (although it is not mandatory to compete). Students of all levels are welcome to register. We find that students make great progress not only in the development of their public speaking and debate skills but also in their academic subjects as they grow as critical and analytical thinkers. Depending on the number of students and their levels, classes can be subdivided based on experience.
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This class is not currently on our schedule, but we would be delighted to add it if you reach out to us with a group of 4 or more students who would like to register.
Class Description: We are excited to offer this one-hour introductory debate and public speaking class for our youngest international students. The goals of this class are to help students feel comfortable with public speaking and to teach them the basics of debate. Students will learn the fundamentals of debate and public speaking from their instructor and from in-class debates in a supportive and respectful environment. Becoming comfortable with public speaking at an early age will help your children grow to become confident, well-spoken students and leaders. We have offered this class for years to our American students and find that children who start at this age are so prepared and excited to join their debate team when they become eligible. Ages 8-10.
Option 2: Create a new international class
2024 – 2025 Academic Calendar
Key:
Fall Semester Classes
Spring Semester Classes
Holiday/No Classes
Take advantage of Westfield’s experienced instructors and engaging curriculum from anywhere in the world.
Are your kids uninspired by remote learning? Are you finding yourself in need of curricular structure and educational experience? We’ve got you covered.
In addition to offering a schedule of virtual international classes, Westfield is proud to now be able to offer custom virtual classes for small groups, taught by knowledgeable Westfield teachers at a time that works for your family. The best part? These classes have a flexible start date and can begin at any time.
Please contact us for more information about pricing.
What We Teach
Debate
Westfield debaters engage with contentious modern issues from all sides, forging a deep understanding of complex topics.
We welcome students of all experience levels, debate backgrounds and a variety of ages (8-18), and our student-centered approach is designed to help every debater achieve their potential. Our ultimate focus is on teaching the essential debate skills of critical thinking and public speaking.
Interested in learning more about the value of debate? Check out our introduction to the activity.
Model United Nations
Our Model U.N. program focuses on developing essential diplomatic skills such as communication, strategy, leadership, consensus building, high-level research, and public speaking. Our students are given constant opportunities to discuss current events and—in our dynamic class simulations,—they get to put that knowledge into practice. Westfield Model U.N. students actively explore international relations and global affairs to deepen their understanding of their world.
Not sure what Model United Nations is exactly? Learn more here.
And More!
Westfield has a strong network of experienced educators with expertise in a variety of areas. Our team of educators has taught classes on literature, history, and creative writing. If you are interested in putting together an academic class in any discipline, we can find you an accomplished teacher who can make it happen.
Get started building your own class focusing on any of these subjects by contacting us today.
Prepare for Success
“My son is passionate about debate. Thank you very much for the past year and all your help getting him better and better.”
Competition
Westfield’s stellar competitive record—including winning four international debate competitions in three different types of debate format—proves the success of our holistic, student-centered approach.
We are particularly proud of the accolades garnered by Westfield debaters in China. Check them out below.
Education
Our curriculum emphasizes critical thinking skills, engagement with current events and confident self-expression. It’s no coincidence that these are exactly the skills that prepare students to excel at elite educational institutions in the U.S.
Westfield in the World
Top Speaker
NSDA Nanjing
Champions
BWYA Speakeasy
Top Speaker
BWYA Speakeasy
Quarterfinalists
NHSDLC Beijing
Double Octafinalists
2018 NHSDLC,
Middle School Division
Second Place Team
2019 NHSDLC,
Middle School Division
Quarterfinalists
2019 Dulwich College
“Debate for Change” Tournament
Double Octafinalists
2019 NHSDLC,
High School Division
Looking for more individualized learning? We tutor too!
Westfield draws from a pool of accomplished competitors and experienced educators. Reach out to us and we will be happy to connect your child with a tutor who can help them meet their specific goals—whether they be in the realms of debate, MUN or beyond.
Questions? Contact Brittany, our coordinator to set up a phone or email consultation.
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