Terms of Service

1. Google Drive

After the trial lesson, students will be required to create a free Google Account if they do not already have one. The student will then receive a dedicated folder on Google Drive where they will be able to upload documents relating to their subject. The tutor will also use this folder to share useful information, worked solutions, textbook chapters, and other free resources with the student. By accessing this shared folder, students agree not to distribute, reproduce, sell, or share any materials without written consent from the tutor.

2. Additional Material

Clients are not expected to purchase any specific material or devices for their lessons. Likewise, clients should not expect the tutor to go to any such expense. If a client requires the tutor to possess a specific item, they will need to either [1] provide the item to the tutor, or [2] provide the tutor with additional funds (including postage) to purchase the item.

Generally, it is possible for the tutor to acquire the textbook a student is using as well as alternate textbooks to assist in the lessons. Chapters from textbooks are made available to students via Google Drive at no additional cost. Use of these resources is limited to educational purposes only and subject to copyright restrictions.

3. Payment

Payment for a tutorial is required one week in advance via bank transfer to reserve the timeslot. Unpaid lessons may be forfeited and the timeslot offered to other students. Refunds are granted only with supporting documentation, such as a current doctor’s certificate. There are no refunds for digital content (i.e. video recordings and documents). Recurring late payments may result in suspension or termination of services.

It is expected that clients set a recurring alarm reminder or automatic bank payment. Lessons may be rescheduled within the same calendar week at no additional cost. If rescheduling to the following week is necessary, a 50% cancellation fee will apply. These policies are designed to align with Australian consumer law. For more information on your rights, refer to the ACCC guidelines on consumer guarantees.

4. Complimentary Services

These unpaid additional services, outlined on the website listing, can only be provided proportionally to the frequency of student attendance. Regular students receive greater access.

5. Etiquette

During lessons it’s expected that students behave respectfully and politely. Persistent lateness or disruptive behaviour may lead to termination or services. Lessons must be booked for times that students will not have last-minute conflicting obligations, such as work. Cancelling lessons wastes the time and effort of your tutor and deprives other students the opportunity to book at that time. If a last-minute cancellation is unavoidable, please try to reschedule your lesson to a time that is within the same calendar week. This helps to offset the negative effect of cancellations and is very much appreciated.

6. Intellectual Property

All materials provided remain the property of the tutor and are for private academic use only. No redistribution is permitted.

7. Limitation of Liability

The tutor does not guarantee academic results. The student’s effort and engagement are critical. The tutor is not liable for school or institutional outcomes. Nothing in these terms excludes rights available under Australian consumer law.

8. Session Timing and Attendance

Lessons begin at the scheduled time. Student lateness will not be compensated. If the tutor is late, time will be made up or credited.

9. Ongoing Communication

Scheduling, payments, and policy changes are communicated via email or SMS. It is the recipient’s responsibility to respond in a timely manner.

10. Suspension or Termination of Services

Services may be suspended or terminated for non-payment, repeated cancellations, or breaches of conduct.

11. Recordings

Under no circumstances are students permitted to record audio or video during lessons. If students desire a video recording, they will need to purchase that recording as a separate product. Refer to the lessons section of the website listing for more information.

12. Parental/Guardian Responsibility

For students under 18, the parent or legal guardian is jointly responsible for payment, conduct, and compliance. Communication will be directed to the guardian, unless the guardian has specified otherwise.

13. Lesson Format and Methodology

Lessons may incorporate digital platforms and online tools. Students must ensure internet and device readiness for participation.

14. Homework and Practice Work

The tutor may assign practice tasks to reinforce lessons. Completion is encouraged but not mandatory.

15. Technical Issues During Online Sessions

If online sessions are disrupted due to technical issues, the affected time will be rescheduled at no additional cost.

16. Force Majeure

The tutor is not liable for missed lessons due to events beyond control, such as illness, natural disaster, or internet outages.

17. Changes to Terms and Conditions

The tutor may update these terms with 14 days’ notice. Continued lessons constitute acceptance of any updates.

The policies outlined in this document are part of the services provided by The Math Cocoon, a maths tutoring service based in Mornington, Victoria. These practices are in place to ensure consistency and financial stability within the tutoring profession. They are in line with industry standards, and they help to manage the challenges that tend to accompany assisting multiple students at once, organising a schedule on a weekly basis, and receiving irregular payments. Most importantly, these practices enable the tutor to remain focused on what truly matters: cultivating academic success and helping students work toward the future they envision.