THE STORY BEHIND THE CREST

In 2021 the school crest was refreshed to ensure our Kāi Tahu, Irish and French whakapapa (genealogy) of the School was acknowledged and celebrated. As many of you will know, the poutama (stairway to heaven) pattern is found in raranga Māori (weaving). The poutama has significant spiritual and educational meanings. The stepped pattern symbolises levels of attainment and advancement of knowledge and the growth of the student, whānau community, striving ever upwards. To Kāi Tahu, the name for the Greater Green Island area is Ōkaihe.

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In the Christian faith, the three points of the Trinity knot represent the Holy Trinity of Father, Son and Holy Spirit. In its original form of vesicae pisces, it incorporates the fish which is a popular Christian symbol. In the apex of each knot there is a Māori koru which symbolises manaakitanga (new life, growth, care and kindness). 

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The star in the centre of the crest represents the shining light of Nano Nagle’s lantern as she shared her love and gift of Catholic education with the children of Cork, Ireland. Educated in Paris, France, Nano (Honoria) Nagle was the founder of the Presentation Sisters whom we have strong connection with at St Peter Chanel School.

 

The Celtic cross is a form of Christian cross featuring a nimbus or ring that emerged in Ireland, France and Great Britain in the Early Middle Ages.

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The name of our kura comes from Peter Chanel (1803 – 1841), born Pierre Louis Marie Chanel, was a French Catholic priest, missionary and martyr. Chanel was a member of the Society of Mary or "Marists" and was sent as a missionary to the remote islands of Wallis and Futuna. St Peter Chanel is the patron saint of Oceania and his feast day is 28 April.

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Thanks to local graphic designer Thomas Henry and former St Peter Chanel School kaiako (teacher) Pesamino Tili for their aroha and input into this project.

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