We were delighted to welcome three Old Canfordians back to Canford on Friday to speak with Lower Sixth students about life beyond school, exploring career pathways and the importance of embracing uncertainty.

The session brought together OCs with diverse experiences, offering current students an honest and insightful look at the many directions life can take after Canford.

Kit Blomfield F24 spoke candidly about his passion for cricket and the challenges of navigating uncertainty around university choices. He shared that he is now successfully combining cricket coaching with studying engineering at The Open University, demonstrating that alternative pathways can lead to fulfilling outcomes.

David Brigstocke L97 introduced the concept of “squiggly careers”, reflecting on how his own professional journey has evolved in ways he could not have predicted when leaving school. His message encouraged students to remain open to change, opportunity and the unexpected turns that often shape long-term success.

Kerry Gunu C24 delivered a powerful account of the impact volunteering has had on his life since leaving Canford. Inspired by his experiences at school, he has returned to his home country of Ghana to teach and coach at Awutu Winton Senior School. Alongside this, he continues to support fundraising initiatives through the University of Reading, including running the Reading Half Marathon, collecting sports shoes, and serving as a primary school governor.

We are incredibly grateful to Kit, Kerry and Dave for giving their time so generously and for sharing such honest and inspiring reflections. Hearing real stories of ambition, resilience, service, and unexpected journeys provides invaluable guidance to students as they begin to consider their own futures beyond Canford.