Debate Coach

Part-time hours starting September 2025 until June 2026

The York School is a gender-inclusive, independent school in midtown Toronto that offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12. We’re proud to be at the forefront of education excellence, attracting curious learners who thrive in belonging to an inclusive community of high performance.

We’re seeking a globally minded professional who’s fueled by curiosity, inspired by innovation and energized by collaboration to join our dynamic community of educators, staff, students, parents and alumni.

JOB PURPOSE

The York School seeks a dynamic and ambitious individual to serve as a Debate Coach to support the Senior School’s Debate Team. This is a fantastic opportunity for individuals who are passionate about transforming schools through the incredible activity of debate. The Debate Coach will report directly to the Head Debate Coach and will have the ability to act professionally when communicating with staff, students and parents on a regular basis. They will help develop The York School’s debate program, teach and motivate both novice and experienced debaters, and represent The York School at debate and public speaking competitions.

This position is a casual position, with an average of 1.5-2 hours a week, includes attending weekly practices and attending upwards of 6 evening and weekend tournaments throughout the year.

The York School is looking for a supportive and enthusiastic Debate Coach to assist with our Senior School Debate Team. This part-time, hourly role is ideal for someone who enjoys working with students and has a strong interest in debate and public speaking.

Reporting to the Head Debate Coach, this individual will help guide students through practices, offer feedback, and accompany the team to local competitions. The ideal candidate communicates clearly and professionally with students, staff, and parents, and enjoys helping both new and experienced debaters build their skills and confidence.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Prepare teams for tournaments by scheduling practices, case construction meetings, and running rounds outside of our regular program time
• Administrative tasks associated with tournaments, such as supporting the Head Coach with draws and tabs
• Provide debaters with feedback related to their practice and skills in debate
• Give advice and support to students while they’re at competitions
• Represent the school as a judge at tournaments, including on weekends.

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

• Completion of a University Degree or enrollment in postsecondary education is an asset
• 1 to- 2 years experience as a successful debater, at a high school or university level, in addition to experience working with children
• Debate experience at the High School and/or University level required
• Experienced debater in both the British Parliamentary and CP/CNDF styles
• Ability to express oneself clearly and concisely both orally and in various written forms
• Ability to act professionally and to effectively communicate and interact with staff, constituents and various other professionals
• Display a high level of initiative, effort and commitment towards completing assignments efficiently, work with minimal supervision, and demonstrate responsible behaviour and attention to detail
• Work well in team situations to promote trust, cooperation, commitment and team spirit

EMPLOYEE CORE COMPETENCIES

• Flexibility & Adaptability
• Breadth of Contribution
• Relationship Focused
• Service Orientation
• Communication & Collaboration Inclusivity
• Integrity & Trust

WORKING REQUIREMENTS

• Attending meetings and practices both online and in person throughout the year
• Candidates must be able to arrange their school schedule to ensure they are available Thursday's after school from 4PM to 5PM

THE YORK SCHOOLS’ COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION AND ACCESSIBILITY
The York School embraces diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive and accessible workplace. We actively encourage applicants from all equity seeking groups. Our goal is to attract, develop and retain highly talented employees from diverse backgrounds so our community will benefit from a wide variety of experiences and perspectives.

We are committed to providing barrier-free and accessible recruitment and employment practices in compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Should you require accommodation through any stage of the recruitment process, please make it known when contacted and we will work with you to meet your needs.

HOW TO APPLY

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply by submitting their application. Review of applications will begin on July 14, 2025 and will continue on an ongoing basis until the position is filled.

As a condition of employment, successful candidates will need to provide a current criminal record check with vulnerable sector screening from the police jurisdiction in which they reside.

We thank all candidates for their applications; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.