Dunster School launches a creative heraldry project

Dunster School has recently completed a wonderful school heraldry project. We were delighted to hear that the children have been busy designing coats of arms ready for the celebrations. With the Dunster Winter Festival approaching on 6 and 7 December, pupils have been creating hearldic shields with a wide variety of colourful symbols. (You can use our free coat of arms template to design your own!) Their enthusiasm has been inspiring, and their artwork has shown real imagination. A huge well done to the staff and children who have been involved in this fantastic and creative project. We can see that imaginations have been let loose, with lots of symbols being used in the artworks.

Since opening our Dunster shop, we have enjoyed becoming part of the community, and the school is clearly one of the things at its heart. We hope that the children enjoyed exploring heraldry. Their creativity around the topic of coats of arms has reminded us why we enjoy sharing this subject. Under the leadership of Mr Paul James, the school website describes it as “a haven of learning… surrounded by breath-taking landscapes. As a happy, kind, and caring school, we are proud to be at the heart of our supportive community, unwavering in our commitment to place children at the centre of all we do.” Judging on this project, the children have been getting well and truly immersed in their work!

A fun project for schools and families

This school heraldry project is simple for teachers to organise and easy for families to try at home. Our free coat of arms template offers a clear starting point. It allows children to explore colour, symbols and meaning while learning about heraldic traditions. The children at Dunster have created theirs on cardboard shields which they will be able to carry. So you could copy their example and cut out a shape that you like. But equally you could do yours on a piece of A4 paper and cut it out afterwards.

Some children become curious about the earliest historically recorded coat of arms associated with a bearer of their own surname. Families can explore further through our online dictionary of heraldry symbols, which explains the meaning behind many traditional images. This resource helps young learners choose symbols which they feel reflect their character or achievements.

Families can also browse our blog to learn more about surnames, heritage and the stories behind different coats of arms.

Looking ahead to the Dunster Winter Festival

This project forms part of the village’s preparations for the Dunster Winter Festival. The event brings the village together and offers a warm, festive atmosphere for residents and visitors. We are excited to take part for the first time since opening our doors and look forward to celebrating with the community.

Photo above by Nina Dodd Photography

During the festival, we welcome families to visit us on Dunster High Street. Our team will be happy to discuss surnames, heraldry and the history behind the earliest recorded coats of arms linked to different names. Visitors can also explore a wide range of meaningful gifts in store.

Explore our collection of heritage-inspired items:

Prints and scrolls

Crystal and glass gifts

Shields and plaques

Watches and clocks

Homeware

Gifts for her

Gifts for him

You can also explore more surname and heraldry topics on our main blog.

Visit us in Dunster

We look forward to welcoming everyone during the festival and throughout the year. Please visit our Dunster shop to explore heraldry, surnames and unique personalised gifts. Or alternatively you can call us on 01984 632120 or email info@hallofnames.org.uk.

Use our free template you can use to help you create a design for your club or organisation. It’s aimed at kids but can be used by adults too!

We hope you have enjoyed seeing the beautiful work of the Dunster School Children – here are just a few more to be impressed by!