Sarima Chinda Profile
Staff profile
I teach public health modules, supporting students to develop a strong understanding of applied public health practice, health inequalities, epidemiology, and evidence-based decision-making.
- Tutor (Professional Practice) in Public Health
My teaching focuses on bridging theory and practice, equipping students with the skills required to work effectively in real-world public health settings.
What do you most enjoy about teaching at Teesside University London?
What I enjoy most is the strong emphasis on practice-led, applied learning and the diversity of the student body. Many students are mature or part-time learners with rich professional and lived experience, which creates engaging, reflective discussions. I particularly value the University’s commitment to widening participation and supporting students to succeed academically while balancing work, family, and other responsibilities.
How do your students benefit from your experience?
Students benefit from my extensive experience working across local government, NHS England, and national public health systems. I bring real-world case studies into teaching, including examples from health inequalities strategies, commissioning decisions, epidemiological analysis, and community engagement. This helps students understand how public health theory translates into practice and prepares them for professional roles through the development of critical thinking, analytical skills, and practical insights.
Tell us about your career to date.
My career spans over a decade across public health leadership, health intelligence, policy, and education. I currently work as a Public Health Lead for Health Intelligence and Insight within local government and as a Global Health Lecturer at Queen Margaret University. Previously, I held senior roles at NHS England and Health Education England, where I led national programmes focused on health inequalities, workforce development, and evidence-based policy. Alongside this, I have maintained a strong academic profile, teaching postgraduate students and contributing to research and scholarships in public health.
What industry links do you have?
I have strong industry links across NHS England, local authorities, Integrated Care Systems, public health agencies, voluntary and community sector organisations, and academic partners. My work involves close collaboration with Directors of Public
Health, policymakers, commissioners, analysts, and community stakeholders. These links allow me to keep teaching content current and aligned with sector needs and emerging public health priorities.
How has your industry experience enhanced your teaching?
My industry experience enhances my teaching by enabling me to embed real-life public health challenges, data, and decision-making processes into learning activities. I regularly draw on examples such as health needs assessments, health inequalities action plans, and evaluation frameworks. This applied approach helps students develop practical skills, understand professional expectations, and build confidence in applying public health concepts beyond the classroom.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
One of the highlights of my career has been leading and co-producing health inequalities strategies and intelligence frameworks that have directly influenced policy and service delivery, while also teaching and mentoring postgraduate students who go on to contribute meaningfully to the public health workforce. Seeing the combined impact of policy work and education on population health outcomes has been particularly rewarding.
Why should students consider studying this course?
Students should consider studying this course because it offers a strong foundation in applied public health practice, critical thinking, and professional skills that are highly relevant to today’s complex health challenges. The course equips students with the knowledge, confidence, and practical insight needed to work across a wide range of settings, from community organisations to national health systems, with a strong focus on equality, inclusion, and social justice.
What is the best piece of advice you have for your students?
My best advice to students is to remain curious, reflective, and grounded in evidence, while always remembering that public health is ultimately about people and communities. Effective public health practice requires technical skill, empathy, collaboration, and a commitment to reducing inequalities. Staying open to learning and listening is just as important as mastering theory.