Sarika Bharath-Punchoo
Team Lead
HCPC Registration: SL27727
Hello, my name is Sarika.
I graduated from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, in 2006 and have worked across both public and private sectors throughout my career. My passion lies in school-based therapy and working as part of a multidisciplinary team to support children with communication and learning needs.
After completing my Community Service at a rural hospital in South Africa, I worked in a Special Educational Needs (SEN) school, where I discovered my passion for paediatrics. In 2009, I moved to England, gaining valuable experience across hospitals, schools and early intervention services before returning to South Africa in 2010.
Over the following 12 years, I worked in SEN schools and developed a particular interest in language-based learning difficulties, Dyslexia and early intervention. I am passionate about supporting children’s language and literacy development and recently completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Specialist Teaching for Literacy-Related Difficulties, further strengthening my knowledge and expertise in this area.
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 fellow therapists in their professional journeys, helping them develop their confidence, knowledge and clinical practice.
The Words First value that resonates most with me is being child-centred. I believe it is important to always consider the ‘why’ behind our decisions and, most importantly, how each decision will affect the child. Keeping their individual needs, strengths and wellbeing at the heart of our practice allows us to provide meaningful and effective support.
Outside of work, I enjoy making special memories with my husband and children, practising yoga and, of course, enjoying plenty of delicious Asian cuisine!
