Bolton

Alessia C.

Junior/French Coach

As an Oxford Learning coach I enjoy being able to help others in areas where they are struggling and to make them feel more confident as a student overall. I love seeing students overcome obstacles and show their improvements throughout the weeks working with them. Oxford Learning is different from other tutoring centres as it goes above and beyond just tutoring. At Oxford Learning, we are preparing students with skills that they can put towards any subject and apply them to their daily lives. For example, helping a student bring their confidence level up will help them succeed with their school work and in daily situations they may be faced with.

I applied to Oxford Learning because I am passionate about learning and teaching so I decided to apply to Oxford Learning in hopes to learn and gain more experience with this passion. People would describe me as a caring, mindful yet fun person. I think people would also state that I am hard-working and perseverant with any task that I am given.

My biggest accomplishment has been my success in my academics in university thus far, and recently being involved with the “Peace by PEACE” organization at school. Outside of Oxford Learning some of my hobbies include playing the piano, swimming, and reading. I have always had interests in travelling as I love to explore different cultures and styles of the world.

Favourite Quote: “If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish motives. Be kind anyway.” – Mother Teresa

Favourite Book: The Giver – Lois Lowry

Alex F.

Intermediate/French Coach

Being an Oxford Learning coach has given me the opportunity not only to gain experience in the education field, but also to do what I love.  Teaching has always been a dream of mine as I find it not only allows me to make an impact on my students lives and help them grow, but it is also a very rewarding job as it allows me to learn new things every day and grow with them. Oxford Learning is different from other tutoring centers as its programs are created specifically to suit each individual student’s needs, and its objective is to teach students new strategies to better understand concepts, learn the material, and apply these strategies to any other aspect in life. 

The reason I applied to Oxford Learning is because I love teaching and working with children of all ages so I saw this as a great opportunity. My family and friends would describe me as being friendly, determined, and passionate.  I believe my biggest accomplishment will be receiving my Honours degree in French and Italian Studies I am working towards.  Outside of Oxford Learning, I love volunteering, reading, and baking goodies. 

Favourite Quote: “A bird sitting on a tree is never afraid of the branch breaking, because her trust is not on the branch, but on its own wings. Always believe in yourself.”

Favourite Book: Safe Haven – Nicholas Sparks

Amanda F.

Intermediate/Senior Coach

I have currently just completed my Honours Bachelor of Science (HBSc) degree at the University of Toronto, and I look forward to continuing my university career, by achieving my ultimate goal of becoming an educator. Personally, I always strive to reach my fullest potential, through challenging myself within everything I do. Throughout my experience at Oxford Learning Centre, I have enjoyed the challenge that such a dynamic learning environment has presented to me in my role as a coach. Working consistently with the students provides the opportunity to follow their individual learning process in its entirety. With that being said, witnessing a student’s academic success is not only rewarding to the student, but also to myself.

As an individual who has recently experienced the education system, I have had a first-hand account of the positive and negative aspects that exist within it. Throughout many instances, I have recognized problems that exist, such as the disregard of individual learning needs through generalized teaching methods, large classroom sizes, and a fast pace curriculum, just to name a few. These aspects of the system ignore individual needs, thus hindering a child’s ability to grow and reach their full potential. Through working at Oxford Learning, I believe I am supported and given the tools to address these issues, while truly making a difference in a student’s life.

Oxford Learning Centre’s approach to tutoring is exceptional. It not only focusses on the standard school curriculum, but also addresses fundamental issues with learning, while creating specialized programs based on the particular strengths and weaknesses that a given student has. The skills learned at Oxford Learning Centre not only benefit students with schoolwork, but are essential lifelong skills that will help them in many aspects of their lives for years to come.

As a person, I would say that I am a well rounded individual. I enjoy being creative, and often like painting and drawing in my spare time. I am also a classically trained pianist, and often play for my own enjoyment on my spare time. As a child I was very athletic and participated in competitive dance, swimming, and soccer. Personally, I would describe myself as being a very approachable, patient, enthusiastic, receptive, and an understanding person. As an Oxford Learning coach, I promote a welcoming, fun, but equally productive environment for my students to learn in. Although I have high expectations for my students, I personally strive to meet my own high expectations that I place on myself. I am truly committed to continuously improving my coaching abilities in order to better suit the needs of the students.

Favourite Quote: “Never look down on anybody unless you’re helping them up” – Jessie Jackson

Favourite Book: Harry Potter Series

Cosimo D.

Junior/Intermediate Coach

I enjoy being an Oxford Learning Coach because of the constant challenges each day brings, and the fulfillment it brings to me as I work with each student. Oxford Learning is different from other tutoring centres due to its commitment and strategies to help students succeed in their education, and further on in life. Oxford Learning not only adapts its program to each individual student, it allows these students to grow and become more confident in their own abilities. I applied to Oxford Learning in searching to further my experience within the field of teaching.

People would describe me as hard working and motivated, especially on tasks which I am interested in. My biggest accomplishment has been graduating with both a degree in teaching, and Near Eastern & Classical Archaeology. Each of these degrees tested my abilities to learn and grow as a student and person, which I hope to pass onto the students at Oxford Learning.

Outside of Oxford Learning, I enjoy playing tennis and hockey, as well as dabbling in various types of poetry whether it is reading or writing poems.

Favourite Quote: “Believe in yourselves, try, do good.” – Mr. Feeney from Boy Meets World

Favourite Book: I Wrote This for You – Ian Thomas

Dylan F.

Math/Science Coach

As a future teacher, I enjoy helping my students not only succeed in their studies, but to motivate them and to see them enjoy what they are learning. Helping others has always been a passion of mine because it is very rewarding, not only for the students, but for myself as well.

Oxford Learning stands out when compared to other tutoring centres because we use many different approaches, which are based off extensive research pertaining to education, teaching styles, and learning styles. These approaches enhance student learning as we provide them with the fundamental skills required to learn; not only from us, but to learn by themselves as well.

I applied to Oxford Learning in order to help students succeed and to obtain insight into the field of education. Oxford Learning allows me to learn from students, just as much as they learn from me. It is crucial for me to experience a variety of different learning styles so that I know how to cater to the different needs of each student.

People describe me as a friendly, fun, helpful and an enthusiastic person. One of my biggest accomplishments in life was graduating from the University of Toronto Mississauga with an Honours Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and Chemistry. I am now studying to become a science and math teacher at York University. Some of my hobbies include hockey, videogames, juggling, and guitar.

Favourite Quote: “The beautiful thing about learning is nobody can take it away from you.“ – B. B. King

Favourite Books: The Harry Potter Series – J.K. Rowling

Emmah B.

French /Junior Coach

Working at Oxford Learning is extremely rewarding as I am able to see students succeed when they push themselves beyond their comfort zone. At Oxford Learning, students are pushed to think actively, which helps them gain confidence and vital learning skills. I enjoy watching students attain the ability to learn and work independently as they gain these active thinking skills.

Oxford Learning’s tight-knit community allows for the teachers to get to know the students on a personal level. The bonds and support at Oxford Learning set us apart from other learning centres. I applied at Oxford Learning to build my experience in teaching. I was looking for the opportunity to positively affect students while learning more about myself in the process. The teachers at Oxford Learning are always looking for new and unique ways to help the students learn and grow.

It is important to me to be open-minded when finding teaching methods that best fit my students as each student has an individualized way of learning. People would describe me as open-minded and hardworking. Not only am I open to new teaching styles, but I am also open to trying new foods and activities. As well, I love learning new facts or skills. I am hardworking because I always put my best level of effort into any task at hand.

My biggest accomplishment has been earning my second-degree black belt in martial arts. It took eight years of dedication and hundreds of hours of training. A new goal that I am currently working towards is being accepted into an undergraduate engineering program at The University of British Columbia or The University of Waterloo. Outside of Oxford Learning I like to stay active in sports and around the community. I actively participate in basketball and hope to learn how to snowboard this winter.

Favourite Quote: “Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” – Neale Donald Walsch

Favourite Books: The Hunger Games Trilogy – Suzanne Collins

Harlene K.

Junior/Intermediate Coach

I enjoy being an Oxford Learning coach because I believe we make a difference in the lives of students that seek assistance from us. Oxford Learning coaches focus on creating a positive environment and help change students' attitude towards their weaknesses. Being an Oxford Learning coach has taught me that, with a little encouragement, students begin to realize that they are capable of overcoming any obstacles they are faced with. Being part of this process is very rewarding!

Oxford Learning focuses on learning strategies as well as individual goals for each student while other tutoring centres emphasize independent learning. Oxford Learning teachers are able to work with students, understand their specific learning style, and apply a teaching method that will benefit their students the most. At Oxford Learning, students use the skills they learn to build independence. Being a student myself, I understand the importance of strengthening and building study skills early in order to have the self-discipline to reach goals in the future.

I applied to Oxford Learning because I wish to help motivate students and assist them in working towards their goals so they are confident enough to reach them on their own. People would describe me as an approachable and friendly individual. I am easy to get along with and love making people smile! My biggest accomplishment so far has been dedicating myself to school and education. I have been challenging myself with individualized study methods, which have taught me both discipline and independence in terms of learning. Some of my interests include reading and spending time with friends, family, and my dog. I am also a huge fan of horror movies; I absolutely love a good scare!

Favourite Quote: "If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude." – Maya Angelou

Favourite Book: A Fine Balance – Rohinton Mistry

Isabella S.

Intermediate/Senior Coach

The beauty of learning is that it never stops. We’re not limited solely to the classrooms we’re in, but instead we learn so much from the people and situations around us that influence us greatly. Having the opportunity to be an Oxford Learning Coach not only allows me to have a positive impact on the students whom I teach, but they also teach me a great deal. Each day I learn something new from my students. Whether it’s a new trend or story; it’s something that can’t be taught just in traditional classrooms. Oxford Learning is a centre oriented towards surpassing the goals of each student, and allowing them all the tools necessary to reach above and beyond.

I applied to Oxford Learning because I believe in a system that is suited towards the needs of the student on an individual basis and Oxford Learning offers this. Others would describe me as optimistic and positive as I believe there is no problem that can’t be solved. My greatest accomplishment has been my graduation from the Ontario Science Centre Science School, as well as my studies in Biomedical Sciences. My interests include spending time with friends and family, as well as eagerly awaiting movie releases.

Favourite Quote: “The power of imagination makes us infinite.” – John  Muir

Favourite Book: Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers – Mary Roach

Katie D.

Junior/Intermediate Coach

Being a coach at Oxford Learning has given me the unique opportunity to work with students more closely and find ways to focus in on individual strengths to support student success. Every student is different, which allows me to try a variety of teaching and learning strategies, and discover what ‘clicks’ for that student.

This is exactly why I first applied with Oxford Learning: I love finding ways to develop the necessary academic concepts, organization habits, and countless other skills that ultimately lead to self-confidence and enthusiasm about learning. Since starting here, one of my favourite things about being a coach is definitely the positive and supportive atmosphere that the Oxford Learning staff and students create. All questions are always welcomed, and challenges are presented at chances to grow rather than something to be scared about.

Others would describe me as hardworking, dedicated, and caring for everyone around me. I truly love seeing other people succeed, and supporting them to do so in any way I can. Apart from completing my university undergraduate degree and teacher’s college education at Queen’s University, one of my biggest accomplishments was being able to watch over 600 of my peers perform in a recital that I organized as the Co-President of Queen’s Dance Club in 2015. Watching all of their hard work over the year come to light was absolutely wonderful, which is the exactly what I love to see from all of my students in the classroom as an educator and at Oxford Learning as a coach.

I grew up being very active in competitive dance for over 15 years, as well as volleyball, and competitive rowing throughout my high school years. Now, my personal interests and hobbies include backcountry camping, hiking, and various water sports whenever I get a chance. I also like to volunteer my time to give back to the community at local schools, as well as with Child and Family Services. I am always listening to music, and love to bake and cook for my family and friends.

Favourite Quote: “If you were born with the weakness to fall you were born with the strength to rise.” – Rupi Karu’s Milk and Honey

Favourite Book: Everything is Illuminated – Jonathan Safran Foer

Katie F.

Junior/Intermediate Coach

Being an Oxford Learning Coach is very rewarding and self-fulfilling. Each class is different for the student and myself: finding new strategies that are successful for their learning, creating resolutions for any difficulty that may occur, and engaging in conversation with students to learn about their passions, dislikes and areas they want to improve in.

Oxford Learning triumphs over other tutoring centres because here at Oxford Learning we are always implementing inclusiveness, and building students' abilities to succeed with positivity, determination, and courage. This Oxford Learning location in Bolton has a very welcoming and relaxed working environment for both staff and students. All staff members at Oxford Learning are very approachable and are at the centre for one reason: developing independence and success in every student. We all love what we do and continue to find new ways to implement enthusiasm in student learning and their overall well-being.

If you were to ask my friends or family what are some ways to describe me, they would say: friendly, independent, caring, genuine, and charismatic. Life is way too short to be taking life seriously. I live my life with focus and remembering that everything happens for a reason. I have several accomplishments that I’m very proud of thus far in my life. One of them is having a healthy recovery from a scoliosis surgery when I was 17 years old, moving to France for a year to teach abroad, and more recently, buying my first home! All of these experiences have taught me that life sometimes can be challenging, but with perseverance, consistency, and the support of family and friends, that anyone can be successful in any endeavours!

Favourite Quote: “Venture outside of your comfort zone. The rewards are worth it.” – Rapunzel, Tangled.

Laura D.

Intermediate/Senior Coach

I love being an Oxford Learning Coach! I completed both my Mathematics Honours degree and Teacher’s Education degree at Brock University. After graduating I had the opportunity to work for a private school in Bangkok, Thailand. I loved the chance to get to teach a completely new type of student and learner, and truly feel that the experience has propelled my teaching in a way I never could have imagined. 
Returning to Ontario, and to Oxford Learning, I love the opportunity to work with a wide range of students, those looking to keep sharp on the best tools for student success, and those who need a guiding hand to find their way at being their very best! Oxford Learning is different than other tutoring centres. Our students can work at a pace that best suits them - working on both fundamentals of effective learning while focusing on content from their daily classrooms.

Watching my students succeed and reach their goals is a feeling like none other. Oxford Learning gives me the opportunity to expand my techniques in reaching all different learners effectively. Teaching is my passion and I am thrilled to have the chance to dedicate that passion to your children.

People would describe me as adventurous, often hilarious, creative, and optimistic. Outside of Oxford Learning I have been a successful teacher overseas, combining both my passions for teaching and for travel. I enjoy reading, swimming, and spending time with close friends and family!

Favourite Quote: “Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory.” – Dr. Seuss

 Favourite Book: My Sister’s Keeper – Jodi Picoult

Samantha R.

Junior/Intermediate Coach

I enjoy working at Oxford Learning Centre because I know how it feels to need a helping hand. For the students who come in to learn, it feels so amazing to be able to help them overcome any academic obstacles and give them confidence in their own abilities. After working at the table for even just a few sessions, I hope that students will go into their classrooms at school and proudly raise their hand to share answers, score a fantastically high mark on an important test, or just be pleased with how much they have improved personally from one report card to the next.

Oxford Learning is a different approach to tutoring than some other centres or companies out there. I have seen and practiced different ways, and I feel that Oxford Learning is the only one that students really enjoy. Our students have a larger support system from all the staff at our centre, they can make new friends in their neighbourhood outside of school, and they can follow along with our curriculum right beside their teacher’s lesson and stay one step ahead. The centre makes learning more fun and less boring so that our students are excited to step foot in the building and get to work!

I first applied to Oxford Learning several years ago in the neighbourhood where I grew up. After working at that location for years, I realized that I missed having a place to go and help students after school. I chose to apply in Bolton so that I could continue the work that I loved and meet new people in my new area. People would describe me as persistent and determined to give everything my best effort. There is always another challenge that I am excited to meet or take on. I would also be described as having a level head with the ability to juggle many tasks at once and make sure they are all completed. I try not to let worries bog down my ability to enjoy life!

My biggest accomplishment to date would be my growth as a teacher. When I started out volunteering and applying to teacher' s colleges, I could never have imagined how far my skills and knack for this career has come as I continue to watch and absorb other great teachers around me. The best way to relax and unwind is to explore as much of the world as possible! I love hiking, walking my dogs, and bicycle riding around my community as well as travelling to different and new places to explore other cultures and lifestyles. On the contrary, I also enjoy a comfortable and cozy afternoon spent watching a favourite movie with good company.

Favourite Quote: “Failure is simply the opportunity to begin again, this time more intelligently.” – Henry Ford

Favourite Book: The Hunger Games Series – Suzanne Collins

Stephanie Z.

Junior/Intermediate Coach

As a teacher, the Oxford Learning program stood out to me since students become “active learners” and step back from the facts to truly learn how to learn at their own pace.  Ever since my first day at Oxford Learning, I was blown away by the confidence and enthusiasm flowing from the student and teacher interactions. I immediately felt a part of the positive and inclusive learning environment, and my excitement of being a member of the Oxford Learning team continues today!

My on-going goal as an educator is to explore differentiated learning strategies to unlock each student’s potential to be the best they can be.  I believe that learning is a lifelong process, and at Oxford Learning I am looking forward to helping students achieve their goals and gain confidence in their learning. 

Outside of Oxford Learning I am an adventurer, a foodie, a household comedian, and a film connoisseur. I enjoy spending weekends getting my hands dirty on family house renos or lounging on the dock with a great book. People would describe me as friendly, energetic, fun and, of course, hilarious. An accomplishment that I will always be especially proud of is obtaining a Triple Gold Achievement in figure skating. With a lot of practice, hard work, and focus, I was able to reach my goals and gain more confidence to take on new challenges to come.

Favourite Quote: “Do or do not, there is no try.” – Jedi Master Yoda

Favourite Book: The Golden Compass – Philip Pullman