Cynthia Spies

Honorary Senior Lecturer

Cynthia is an Honorary Senior Lecturer at the CNDU, providing teaching and mentorship support on the Best Practice Project. 

She joined the School of Nursing at the University of the Free State in 1996 and is a Senior Lecturer. With extensive clinical experience in neonatal, paediatric, and paediatric intensive care, she integrates practical expertise into her teaching. She pioneered the University’s first post-basic Paediatric Nursing diploma in 2000 and teaches undergraduate general nursing theory. Her interests focus on experiential learning through simulation and structured debriefing, aimed at building students’ clinical competence, confidence, and readiness for practice.

Guided by her core strengths, she is known for her thoughtful decision-making, strong sense of accountability, ability to build meaningful professional relationships, and commitment to the growth of those she mentors. Beyond academia, she is an enthusiastic badminton player, bringing her competitive spirit to both her professional and personal pursuits.