On a recent work trip to South Africa, Captain Scott Forbes F94 found himself in familiar company, though perhaps not in the usual setting.

“I was lucky to find myself sat next to another OC, Will Gabb C11, and we had a great time chatting about our time at Canford,” Scott shares. “This may sound like a lucky coincidence, but it was a little different. We were the pilots on that trip, flying the Airbus A380 over 5,000 miles down to Johannesburg for British Airways.”

What followed was a journey not just across continents, but across Canford generations. Comparing experiences from the mid-90s to 2011, Scott and Will reflected on how much had changed, and how much had stayed the same.

“We spent some time on the flight comparing the differences from when I left to Will’s time at Canford. A lot had changed in that time, but we both had great stories of school events and even some of the teaching staff who overlapped our time there.”

With nearly 500 passengers on board and 5,000 miles ahead, the flight was a busy one, taking them due south to one of the world’s most remarkable destinations.

“Some golf and dinner later, it was time to head back to a rather wetter UK,” Scott adds. “But Will and I are scheduled to fly again soon, so if you are ever on a British Airways flight, listen out for the names of the pilots. It might be an OC name you recognise.”

A chance encounter, or perhaps proof that OC connections really are everywhere!

It’s always great to hear how your paths cross with fellow OCs around the world. Please share your stories with us community@canford.com