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Victoria, British Columbia
Grant of Arms, Supporters and Flags
July 15, 2024
Vol. VIII, p. 289
Arms of the St. Michaels University School SocietyBlazonArgent a chevron Azure between in chief two mullets Sable and in base a compass rose, on a chief Gules a closed book between two martlets respectant Argent; SymbolismThe colours and symbols are taken from the coats of arms of the school’s two founding institutions, St. Michael’s School and University School. Red, black and blue are the school’s official colours. Red, as the colour of blood, also commemorates the many students who served and died in the two world wars. The chevron, representing a roof, indicates that the school offers boarding facilities. The stars express its teachers’ and students’ pursuit of excellence, and the compass rose represents their international origins. The book symbolizes education. The martlet, a legendary bird that never lands, embodies continuous effort. |
CrestBlazonThree blue camas flowers slipped, leaved and issuant from a circlet of acorns proper; SymbolismThe blue camas flowers are native to the school’s region, in Victoria, British Columbia. They are used as food by First Nations and thus symbolize sustainability. They represent the school’s commitment to teaching respect for the environment and to building authentic and respectful relationships with local Indigenous Peoples. The three flowers indicate that the school is divided into elementary, junior high and senior high school levels. The acorns symbolize each student’s potential. |
MottoBlazonLEARN · LEAD · SERVE; SymbolismThese words are taken from the school’s vision statement. |
SupportersBlazonDexter a cougar sinister a jaguar Azure both standing on a grassy mount set with camas flowers proper; SymbolismThe cougar, found on Vancouver Island, represents the school’s geographic location. Its colour mirrors that of the blue jaguar facing it, which is the school’s mascot. Both felines symbolize a large set of abilities acquired by the students, notably agility of thought, acuity, self-confidence, independence and courage. The base alludes to Mount Tolmie, near the school. The blue camas flowers repeat the symbolism of the Crest. |
Flag of the St. Michaels University School SocietyBlazonA banner of the Arms; SymbolismThe symbolism of this emblem is found in other element(s) of this record. |
Flag of the St. Michaels University School SocietyBlazonA gonfanon with three tails tierced Gules Sable and Azure; SymbolismRed, black and blue are the school’s official colours. |
BackgroundCanada Gazette InformationSince 2023, grants, registrations and approvals of heraldic emblems are no longer announced in the Canada Gazette.  |
Additional InformationCreator(s)Original concept of Fabienne Fusade, Miramichi Herald, assisted by the heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority. PainterDebra MacGarvie CalligrapherYolande Lessard Recipient TypeCivil Institution
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