Call: (250) 586-5848
WHO AM I?
My name is Mark, and I am a literacy tutor based in Parksville, BC. With a lifelong passion for helping others learn, I began my career after college as an Education Assistant, working in public schools, residential programs, and private institutions with students who have neurological and behavioral diagnoses.
While I deeply valued my experience supporting students in classroom settings, I quickly realized that working with smaller groups allowed me to provide more focused, individualized support. This approach aligns with my strengths and is at the core of how I help students thrive academically.
"Tutoring students with a variety of learning needs is a privilege..."
After spending several years working as a lead tutor in the non-profit education sector. I realized that I was passionate about providing one-on-one tutoring. In 2013, I decided to take the leap and start Treetops Tutoring.
It has been a deeply fulfilling experience to support students not only here on Vancouver Island, but across Canada and globally. I find great satisfaction in working closely with students to help them gain a stronger understanding of subjects, concepts, and skills, while watching their confidence grow with each session. Over the years, I’ve crafted a personalized learning program that is tailored to the unique needs of each student. I feel incredibly fortunate to do what I love every day.
"And, I love learning!"
Having trained and worked in Canada and the UK, I believe each student is unique and deserves my full commitment, preparation, and attention. Whether you’re looking for a strong start for a young child with special academic needs, strategies to help a student who struggles to stay focused in the classroom, or extra support for a youth facing challenges in a particular subject or unit, I offer a proven track record of success with students 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
HOW DOES TUTORING WORK?
Treetops is a unique learning studio nestled on a peaceful, leafy acreage in Parksville. Students arrive at their scheduled time for personalized one-on-one tutoring sessions, which are thoughtfully tailored to meet their individual needs. Sessions typically range from 1 to 3 hours, depending on what works best for the student. The curriculum is developed in consultation with the child’s parent, guardian, or homeschool provider to ensure it aligns with their educational goals, offering a focused and supportive learning experience.
"Let's get you a guide... a Tutor!"
At Treetops, each session goes beyond academics. Every class is purposefully structured to include a social learning component, allowing students to confidently build their social skills in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. This not only enhances self-esteem but also helps students feel more comfortable engaging with both peers and adults in future social interactions.
I work closely with parents and students to develop a customized lesson plan that best supports their individual needs. I believe that communication is key to success, which is why I provide parents with regular updates on their child’s progress through an email bulletin after each lesson.