What Alistair Did Next: From Headteacher to Celebrant – A Journey of Life, Love, and Laughter
Alistair Brien
- Region:
- South West
- Notice Period:
- Emergency (maybe less than one week's notice)
- Type:
- Professional
- Fee:
- Paid: £80 plus mileage over 30 miles from home
- Category:
- Life Skills
- Updated:
- 31st July 2025
- Tagged:
- Celebrant | Funeral Choices | Weddings | Humour
After 18 years at the helm of a school, I swapped assemblies and Ofsted reports for vows and farewells. In this warm and uplifting talk, I’ll share my journey into the unexpected world of celebrancy — officiating weddings and funerals, and everything in between. We’ll also explore how thinking ahead can help your loved ones give you the send-off you’d truly want (without it being morbid!). Expect stories, practical insights, and a few gentle laughs along the way — yes, even when we’re talking about funerals. Light-hearted, thoughtful, and maybe even a little bit inspiring — join me to discover what came after the headship.
Views: 12 | Enquiries: 0About Alistair Brien
With over 18 years as the headteacher of a highly successful secondary school in Bournemouth—including three extraordinary years steering the school through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic—I bring a wealth of experience, insight, and humour to every audience I meet. Now retired from education but far from slowing down, I’ve embraced a new chapter as a celebrant, leading both weddings and funerals with warmth, empathy, and a touch of storytelling magic.
Speaking of magic—quite literally—I am also a proud member of The Magic Circle and regularly perform at weddings, dinners, and special events. My talks draw on a lifetime of leadership, resilience, and reinvention, blending personal anecdotes, educational wisdom, and yes, the occasional sleight of hand.
Whether you're looking to be informed, entertained, or inspired (ideally all three), I’d be delighted to share my journey with your group. There might even be a trick or two in my talk!
Other Talks on SpeakerNet by Alistair Brien
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