Craig Johnston

Dr Craig Johnston is a Lecturer in Curriculum and Pedagogy at the University of the Sunshine Coast's School of Education and Tertiary Access. With a PhD from the University of Edinburgh, he transitioned from a career in the wine industry to education, teaching Senior History and Geography in Brisbane schools before joining academia. Johnston serves on the executive committee of the Queensland History Teachers’ Association (QHTA) and contributes to curriculum development, professional workshops, and resource creation for history educators across Queensland.

His research examines constructions of national identity, public history debates (e.g., monument controversies), and pedagogical innovation. Current projects include leveraging podcasting techniques for asynchronous learning and analyzing identity politics in the Australian Curriculum. His work bridges historical scholarship with contemporary educational challenges.

Awards and recognitions include:

• SETA Seed Grant (2023) for curriculum/identity research
• Reh Kendermann Bursary (2007)
• Dean’s Commendation (University of Edinburgh, 1999)
• Jeremiah Dalziel Prize (1996)
• Northcote Travelling Scholarship (1994)

He coordinates undergraduate teaching programs and leads professional development initiatives, emphasizing critical inquiry and relevance in history education.