Sarika Bharath-Punchoo
Team Lead
HCPC Registration: SL27727
Hello, my name is Sarika.
I studied at the University of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa and graduated in 2006. I have over 18 years’ experience working as a Speech and Language Therapist across a variety of settings, both in the private and public sectors. However, my true passion lies in school-based therapy and being part of a multidisciplinary team.
I began my career by completing my Community Service at a rural hospital in South Africa, after which I joined a Special Educational Needs (SEN) school. It was during this time that I discovered my strong interest in paediatrics and a desire to combine work with travel. This led me to England in 2009, where I gained valuable experience across hospitals, schools, and early childhood intervention centres. The professional growth I experienced during this time was invaluable.
In 2010, I returned to South Africa and spent the following 12 years working in SEN schools. I have a particular interest in language-based learning difficulties, Dyslexia, and early intervention to support children’s language and literacy development. I am currently completing a Postgraduate Certificate in Specialist Teaching for Literacy-Related Difficulties and look forward to embedding this knowledge into my therapy practice and sharing it with the wider team.
Since joining the Words First team in 2022, I have experienced phenomenal professional growth, supported by an incredible team. As a Team Lead, I feel privileged to support the professional journeys of fellow therapists.
The Words First value that resonates most with me is being child-centred, because I always consider the ‘why’ behind decisions and how each one will benefit the child.
Outside of work, I enjoy making special memories with my husband and children, as well as practising yoga, reading, and savouring Asian cuisine!
