Published: 14/04/2026 By Duncan Bird
Having joined the firm in the latter half of last year, Graduate Rural Surveyor Duncan Bird from our Sherborne office reflects on his 'Route to Rural'.“In 2025, after a successful 28-year career in education that inspired thousands of children of all ages and nationalities, I took a leap of faith to make a change and seek a new career in the great outdoors.
“It was not an easy decision. I only knew teaching, and realised that I would have to retrain, which meant funding studies, work experience, and ultimately, of course, a job. The CAAV’s Route to Rural campaign was a tremendously supportive network, where I could learn from other people’s experiences and receive support as I addressed my own challenges along the way.
“Initially, I trained to become a qualified orchard designer before enrolling at the Royal Agricultural University to study for an MSc in Rural Estate Management. I partially offset the costs with a scholarship, but meanwhile carried on part-time teaching and online tutoring to pay the bills, alongside my studies.
“Finding work experience was essential, but not easy. However, Symonds & Sampson in Sherborne offered me a placement opportunity, and although there wasn’t an opening at the time, I was delighted to get a foot in the door, which eventually led to a position in September 2025.
“The journey has taken resilience, perseverance, and an understanding, supportive family. It also takes a company that is willing to accept those with different backgrounds, but changing careers is possible and worthwhile. My day job with Symonds & Sampson is varied, interesting, and at times challenging. I might be in Frome Market with Lester Williams, or negotiating grazing licences, working on planning and diversification applications, or walking farm boundaries for mapping or grant applications. No two days are the same, but I am very fortunate to have made what often looked like a leap into the unknown, and I am grateful to all who have helped me along the way."
Duncan is based in our Sherborne office, and can be reached by email or on 01935 818513.
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