The BEST Foundation is excited to offer its second annual Debate Summer Camp!
The camp will take place 14-20 August 2022 at The Red Cross Training Center in Dolni Lozen, Sofia. The curriculum will help students think critically about pressing issues, evaluate arguments, and construct well-thought-out messages that allow them to express topics important to them.
Incoming 9th-12th graders for the 2022-2023 school year are welcome to apply. Priority will be given to students who have competed in at least 1 BEST Tournament, but no prior experience in speech or debate is required. Students who participated last year can not apply. The deadline for applications is July 9, 2022.
After acceptance into the program, participants will be required to transfer a 45 lev nonrefundable deposit to hold their spot. Travel, room and board expenses will be included for those selected to participate.
The Camp will be organized into lectures, practice sessions, and recreational activities. The World Schools Style Debate format will be used as a practice tool with debates held at the end of every day. Lectures will be led by experienced debate coaches, university professors, and professionals in public speaking.
Here is what the tentative schedule looks like for a day in the Camp:
9:00-10:00: Breakfast
10:00-12:00: Lectures
12:00-13:00: Lunch
13:00-14:00: Afternoon Activity
14:00-16:00: Practice Rounds
16:00-17:30: Guest Lecture
17:30-18:00: Break
18:00-19:00: Dinner
19:00-20:00: Reflection Session
20:00-22:00: Unwind
The event will be held in person with predefined safety measures to ensure the participants’ safety.
30 students will be selected to participate.
Participant Application
Applicants must be in 9th to 12th grade this upcoming 2022-2023 academic year and must be able to speak and understand English at a level of B1 or higher.
In order to apply, you must…
Fill out this application form which includes a brief motivation statement about why you want to attend the summer camp and why you believe you are qualified. (Max. 500 words)
Complete Parent Consent Form.
Priority will be given to applicants who have participated in at least 1 BEST event. No experience in debate is required.
The application deadline is July 9, 2022.
Camp Facilitators and Counselors application
We are looking for 3 camp facilitators (debate experience) and 2 counselors to oversee daily activities and ensure the participants’ safety. This is a paid position.
Facilitators and counselors must be aged 18 and older, preferably university students or higher. Priority will be given to BEST/BDA alumni. Must be able to arrive to Dolni Lozen, Sofia for orientation on August 13, 2022.
Facilitator responsibilities include:
Attend all lectures
Assist campers with debate practice
Advise campers during their homework prep
Help with evening games and residence life
Counselor responsibilities include:
Ensure the well-being of participants at all times, including in residence buildings, mealtimes, activities, and throughout the camp.
Make sure the participants arrive to all camp activities including actively managing wake up & lights off calls.
Plan and lead engaging activities for youth including team building, sports activities and evening feedback sessions.
Assist in supervising residents and responding to complaints, reports, requests and emergencies on location.
In order to apply, send a cover letter highlighting your relevant experience and a resume to info@bestfoundation.bg