Call: (250) 586-5848
My rate is $55 an hour per student. I invoice clients at the end of every month. I accept online banking transfers, credit cards, and personal/homeschool funding cheques as payment methods. I am a registered service provider.
At Treetops, I offer a quiet, calm, and structured learning environment on my property in Parksville. My private, dedicated classroom includes a spacious work area, computers, and a cozy library nook. Conveniently located near the beach, schools, and local amenities, Treetops is ideally situated for families in the Oceanside and Nanaimo areas.
I work with students from as far away as Cedar and the Comox Valley, and I also provide online tutoring for students outside the central island area, including those in rural locations and internationally.
I've been tutoring children and young adults with a range of special educational and behavioral needs for over 15 years. My journey began in the UK, where I volunteered at a residential school for children with learning disabilities while studying for my EA diploma. After just six weeks, I was offered a full-time position, and I’ve been passionate about supporting students ever since! Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working in public and private schools, learning centers, and in-home settings. children with low-functioning to moderate learning disabilities while I studied for my EA diploma. I was hired full-time within six weeks of volunteering there and have never looked back! I have worked in public and private schools, learning centers, and at home.
I’m highly qualified and experienced, with many years of training working with youth and adults facing neurological or behavioral challenges. I hold diplomas in Special Education, Teaching English as a Second Language, and Educational Psychology, along with a variety of vocational certificates. My training also includes First Aid and safety intervention, as well as anti-aggression and anti-bullying practices.
In addition, I’m a certified practicum mentor for the Child and Youth Care program at Vancouver Island University. For peace of mind, I have an up-to-date Criminal Records Check and can provide excellent references from both former and current clients.
My track record speaks for itself when it comes to working with challenging students and adapting the curriculum to bring out the best in them. I’m deeply passionate about helping children and young adults succeed, and I take great pride in seeing them reach their full potential.
The approach to each student's learning is personalized, as it depends on their unique needs. Treetops utilizes a variety of academic and learning resources. I’ve had the pleasure of working closely with distance education programs across the Island and Canada, and some students complete coursework provided by these programs. For others, I create and implement a custom curriculum tailored to their specific needs. I also welcome input from parents who may have a preferred curriculum that works best for their child. I collaborate closely with families to ensure we find the best learning program for each student.
The length of each tutoring session is tailored to meet the individual needs of the student and the preferences of the parent or caregiver. I offer classes Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 6 pm. Some students thrive with two one-hour sessions per week, while others benefit from 2-3 longer sessions of four or five hours. I usually suggest starting with a one-hour class and adjusting based on progress and comfort.
I’ve had the pleasure of working with many students over several years, some of whom book sessions as needed for specific subjects or units of work.
In addition to regular tutoring, I offer “Homework Clubs” throughout the year and host a variety of specialized classes during public holidays. My popular Summer program, held throughout August, is a great opportunity for students to get ahead for the upcoming school year or review and refresh concepts learned in preparation for the Fall semester.
I strongly believe in personalizing each session to meet the unique academic and behavioral needs of every student. Each student receives a customized schedule, computer profile, and set of learning resources. I find that creating a structured and routine-focused learning environment helps reduce anxiety and the "fear of the unknown" that many students feel when starting a new program.
Yes, for the most part! As a parent of school-aged children, I make an effort to align Treetops' schedule with the SD68 (Nanaimo/Ladysmith) and SD69 (Parksville/Qualicum Beach) school calendars. Treetops remains open on Pro D days but is closed on public holidays and for two weeks during the Christmas holidays. I also run a popular summer program that has become a favorite among both regular Treetops clients and families seeking extra support during the summer break. program which has proven to be popular with both regular Treetops clients and families just looking for extra support during the summer vacation.
An initial registration form must be completed by parents and caregivers. Following a trial period of three sessions, a standard tutoring agreement may be required.
I respectfully ask for ten days' notice for the cancellation of a student’s tutoring services.
Yes, I have an up-to-date Criminal Records Check. I’m also happy to provide excellent references from parents, former colleagues, respected members of the local community, professionals in special education, and former students from both Treetops and other learning programs I’ve been part of over the years.
A cancellation fee of $25 will apply for last-minute cancellations (less than 24 hours' notice). Full charges will apply for missed appointments.
K - 8 EDUCATION TUTOR
Open today | 09:00 a.m. – 07:00 p.m. |