WHO AM I?
My name is Mark Coombs, and I am a British-born and raised private tutor living in Parksville, BC. I have always enjoyed helping others to learn, so after college, I started working as an Education Assistant in public schools, residential programs, and private schools for students living with a neurological and/or behavioural diagnosis - in a classroom environment. I soon realized that although I loved being a SPED EA, working with smaller groups of students suited me better than being with large class sizes all day.
"Tutoring students with a variety of learning needs is a privilege..."
After immigrating to Canada, I spent a few years working as a lead tutor in the non-profit education sector. I learned a lot, but I wanted to try one-to-one tutoring. That’s when I decided to branch out (pun intended) on my own by starting Treetops Tutoring in 2013!
I thoroughly enjoy helping students here on the Island, across the country, and worldwide. I enjoy working with students one-on-one to help them understand a subject, concept, or skill a little bit better each session and to watch their confidence in themselves grow. I have created a unique learning program tailored to suit the needs of every student who walks through my door. I am very fortunate to do what I love!
"And, I love learning!"
Having trained and worked both here in Canada and in the UK, I firmly believe that each student is unique and deserves 100% of my commitment, preparation, and attention.
Whether you are looking for a head-start for a young child with special academic needs, strategies to support a child finding it difficult to remain focused in the classroom, or some extra support for youth who may be finding a particular subject or unit of work challenging, my proven track record is available to children of all ability levels.
MY EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS:
· Over 15 years of experience tutoring 400+ students in public schools, private schools, and learning centres
· Diploma in Special Education
· Diploma in Educational Psychology
· Diploma in Teaching English as a Second Language
· First Aid Certified
· Regularly updated Criminal Records Check
· Registered service provider with Autism BC
· Parent of two amazing boys!
HOW DOES TUTORING WORK?
Treetops is a unique learning studio built on a leafy acreage in Parksville. Students arrive at their allotted time and have their one-to-one tutoring lesson with me. Classes can last 1-4 hours and are modified to meet the individual student's needs. The learning is based upon a specified curriculum previously discussed with the child's parent, guardian, or homeschool provider.
"Let's get you a guide... a Tutor!"
A session at Treetops isn't just about academics. Each class is a deliberately structured social lesson too. This allows the student the ability and freedom to confidently build upon their social skills and interact in a non-judgemental environment. This can be great for a student's self-esteem and allows them to feel more comfortable engaging with peers and adults in future social situations.
I like to work closely with parents and students to create the most rewarding lesson plan that suits them. I believe that communication is vital, and I update parents on their child’s progress via an email bulletin after each lesson at Treetops.