The St. Michael's Wooden Cross

The St. Michael's wooden cross is a special creation that was made uniquely for the school by noted wood carver Mr David Deaville (who also has work on display at other notable public buildings, including Manchester Cathedral, Exeter Cathedral and Washington Cathedral in America). The project started in 2005 when members of the school council were asked to brainstorm ideas about what makes St. Michael's a special place. The cross itself is carved following the Celtic tradition of ribbon-work, knot-work and incorporates motifs symbolising the life of the school and the close links with St. Michael's Church. The cross was previously displayed in the school hall. However, the new biblical mural in the school hall meant that the cross is now displayed in the reception area of the school.

The Image of St. Michael at the top of the cross surrounded by Celtic knot-work.

The St. Michael's Cross showing the original school badge (heraldic cross of St. Michael) in the centre

The centre of the cross showing the tower of St. Michael's Church

A design showing the importance of sport

A design showing the trees that surround the school

Side panel design that represents the four School Houses - Paget, Hanham, Bankes and Gulliver

Side panel design showing the importance of music to the life of the school

The dedication at the base of the cross

The cross was donated to the school in return for donations to a number of charities, including Christian Aid and St. Catherine's Hospice. From the first drawings through to the final carving and polishing of the cross, it is estimated to have taken somewhere in the region of 250 hours of work over a period of 2 years. Due to the failing eyesight of the artist, this would be the artist's final project ever, and he was supported in his work by the school funding specialist equipment to help him complete the cross. The cross was presented to the school by David and his wife in a special assembly and blessed by the Bishop of Sherborne on Wednesday 19th September 2007.

The full explanation of the design, as given by the artist, was given to the school by the artist so that every person who is new to the school can understand the importance of the symbolism involved in the design (a reminder that this was decided by the school council and the artist).

Firstly, in the centre is a St. Michael's Cross that is recognised throughout the world.
In the centre of the cross is the tower of St. Michael's Church and above the tower of the church is the serpent being slain by St. Michael himself.
Theme 3 shows the four Houses; Bankes, Hanham, Paget and Gulliver.
Theme 4 shows the musical side of the school.
Theme 5 shows the St. Michael's candle which is lit at every assembly.
Theme 6 shows our school environment with pine trees, fir cones and birds and buzzards represented in a tree of life.
This is the sporty part - with cricket, rugby and hockey shown in an intricate design.
Theme 8 represents the popularity of conkers, the fruit of the horse chestnut tree. In the autumn term, there are two popular competitions, the conker knock-out competition and the Conker Whopper Competition.
Theme 9 was always a very important one to show how everyone at St. Michael's is supportive and caring to one another. The interlocking hands show strength in people together, supporting each other.

Lastly, and most importantly, we have the shape of a cross and this reminds us of the life of Jesus and the love of God.