Waterdown
Tutoring

Chris Wu

Franchisee/Centre Director

Hello, my name is Chris and I am the owner and Centre Director of the Oxford Learning Waterdown centre. I obtained my Ph.D. degree in Biomedical Sciences from Queen’s University and completed my post-doctoral training in Hematology at McMaster University. Through the supervision of graduate and undergraduate students, I realized the importance of fundamental education. That’s the reason I joined the Oxford Learning family and started my journey of helping everyone to learn and reach their highest potential.

I am always excited to see kids learn new things every day. At the same time, they build confidence and self-esteem. I believe that a solid academic foundation will help kids become more successful in their future careers. I am excited and hoping to be an important part of this community!

I have always loved the game of soccer. I grew up and played it when I was a teenager with my friends. Now I love watching my son play. Go, Chelsea!

Michael Riddell

Education Director

My goal as the Education Director is to help each and every student who walks in the door. This isn’t necessarily just with school work either, this is with learning as a whole. My personal education includes a degree in Economics and Mathematics and a Master’s degree in Mathematics.

When most people hear about what I studied, I usually hear “I was awful at math”, or “I never liked math.” This is a response that I would like to change. I believe that having the right motivation for any subject makes a huge impact on anyone’s enjoyment of the subject. I was lucky to have great teachers when I was in high school, they showed a passion and love for math and problem-solving. I am now passing that same love of problem-solving, critical thinking, and learning onto others.

Outside of work I enjoy Olympic Weightlifting, video games/puzzles, cooking, and going outside for a walk to get some fresh air. So if you have any recipes to share, want to talk about games or getting active, I would love to hear all about it. 

Drew Costello

Teacher

I have a Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics and statistics, as well as a Bachelor of Applied Science in computer science, both from McMaster University. I have worked both in industry as well as in tutoring. I am capable of teaching mathematics, physics, chemistry, and computer programming up to Grade 12 level and beyond. I have a passion for understanding how the world works and for teaching others. I believe that learning mathematics is the key to opening the mind and thinking in new ways.

I believe that a positive mindset and confidence in one's ability to learn and grow are the cornerstones of any education. This especially applies to mathematics, which can be daunting but ultimately rewarding. I, therefore, make sure to establish a rapport and foster self-confidence with my students so that they can go on their own journey of discovery and achievement.

I'm an avid outdoorsman and I am interested in languages. Currently, I'm learning German.

Corinne Caldwell

Teacher

I am a Core Teacher (Gr 1-8) at the Waterdown Oxford Learning Centre. I received my Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Manitoba, in Winnipeg.  My major is geography and minors are mathematics and psychology. I am a retired Elementary School teacher with HWDSB. I taught in the education system for 25 years (i.e. in Winnipeg, Oshawa, and Waterdown). 

I truly enjoy learning and working with students. I learn so much from my interactions with youth. My teaching goal is to motivate students to be lifelong learners.  

Some of my interests include golfing, curling, gardening, cooking, babysitting my grandchildren, volunteering in the education system, and travelling the world. 

Nicola Benincasa

Teacher

Hello! My name is Nicola Benincasa and I am a teacher with the Halton District School Board. I am an elementary school teacher and have speciality areas in Reading Recovery, Teaching English as a Second Language and Special Education! In my free time I enjoy doing yoga, spending time with friends and family and reading a good book. I love my role as an educator because I enjoy supporting students as they learn both academic and social skills!

Elizabeth Alexander

Teacher

Elizabeth graduated from the University of Ottawa with a Major in Psychology, a Minor in English, and French Immersion studies, wherein she completed half her degree in French, earning her a certificate of bilingualism from the University. Assisting students in English or French at Oxford Learning, she loves helping her students work through challenges to reach those “Aha!” moments. In her free time, she loves music, reading, and learning new languages. She is proud to be in the top 0.1% of Duolingo users in the world!

Holly Marini

Teacher

Hi there! My name is Holly, and I am entering my fourth year of the Honors Life Sciences Program at McMaster University. Teaching and mentoring students is a true passion of mine, especially when it comes to science and math. I’m driven by a love for learning and challenging myself, and I strive to inspire the same enthusiasm in my students.

When working with students, my goal is not just to help them grasp academic concepts but also to enhance their cognitive skills, ensuring they leave each session better equipped to succeed in their studies and beyond. I focus on fostering emotional intelligence and creating a supportive environment where students feel included, valued, and encouraged to share their thoughts and questions.

Beyond academics, I’m a varsity athlete on McMaster’s Varsity Figure Skating Team, a Research Assistant for the School of Rehabilitation Science at McMaster and an Undergraduate Teaching Assistant. In my free time, I love travelling, hiking, and kayaking, and I’ve recently started learning pickleball!