Biography and expertise
Biography
Chris joined Southern Cross University in August 2025 after working at Deakin University and University of Melbourne for 15 years. Chris lives on Victoria’s Surf Coast with his family for over twenty-five years. His qualifications include Bachelor of Arts (Honours), Graduate Diploma in Primary Teaching and Diploma of Financial Planning.
Chris' work contributes to the following UN Sustainable Development Goals
Research
Dr Chris Speldewinde’s primary research focus is Early Childhood STEM teaching and learning in nature-based contexts such as Australian bush kinders. His current research foci are investigating assessment of learning in bush kinders and nature-based approaches to primary school education in Australia.
Community engagement
Chris has been co-coordinator of Early Childhood Australia’s (Victoria) Nature Play SIG since 2024. He has been currently President of the Surf Coast Secondary College School Council since 2023. He is a passionate member of the Geelong Football Club.
Supervision
Chris is currently open to applications for doctoral supervision in projects that focus on early childhood nature-based learning, Sustainability and STEM. His preferred research methodology for doctoral studies is ethnography and he has a strong interest in doctoral studies that are undertaken via a publication route.
Teaching
Chris is currently Unit Assessor for the TCHR3004: Leadership and Advocacy in Early Childhood Education.